ADU Rules in Santa Ana

Santa Ana follows California's statewide ADU regulations (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881, AB 2221) with local administration by the Planning and Building Agency.

Permitted ADU Types

• Detached ADU: A standalone structure on the same lot as the primary dwelling, up to 1,200 sq ft
• Attached ADU: An addition to the primary dwelling, up to 1,200 sq ft
• Junior ADU (JADU): A unit within the existing primary dwelling, up to 500 sq ft
• Garage Conversion: Conversion of an existing garage into a living unit

Both a full ADU and a JADU may be constructed on a single-family lot.

Size and Dimensional Standards

Parking Requirements

No additional parking is required for ADUs within half a mile of public transit. Where parking is required, the city may mandate a maximum of one space per ADU. Garage conversions do not trigger replacement parking requirements.

Permit Process

1. Pre-application meeting: Optional consultation with Planning and Building Agency staff
2. Application submittal: Submit plans and completed application to the city
3. Ministerial review: 60-day timeline for complete applications
4. Building permit: Obtain construction permits after planning approval
5. Final inspection: Complete inspections and obtain certificate of occupancy

Fees

ADUs under 750 sq ft are exempt from development impact fees under state law. Larger units are subject to proportional fees. Contact the Planning and Building Agency for current fee schedules.

Key Regulations

• Owner occupancy is not required per state law
• Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are prohibited
• ADUs cannot be sold separately from the primary dwelling unless specific conditions under AB 1033 are met
• Fire sprinklers are not required if the primary dwelling does not have them
• Properties in historic overlay districts may have additional design review requirements for ADUs