Santa Clarita, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Impact Fees (2026)

040 sets the fee framework for accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units. Subsection (L)(5)(a) makes ADUs and JADUs subject to development impact fees charged proportionally related to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit, except where applicable state law provides otherwise, so a small ADU attached to a modest house is not billed at the same rate as one built behind a much larger home. Subsection (L)(5)(b) layers on a separate utility requirement: each ADU and JADU must install its own utility connection directly to the water or sewer system, subject to a connection fee or capacity charge proportionate to the unit's burden on that system, measured by square footage or drainage fixture units; a JADU with an internal connection to the primary dwelling only needs a separate connection if the Building Official requires one for safety.

That subsection caps the charge at the reasonable cost of providing the services, which limits how much the City can collect beyond actual system impact. Subsection (L)(5)(c) rounds out the fee picture by allowing the City to charge reasonable inspection and construction fees for ADU and JADU permits and inspections, with the exact amounts set by Council resolution and assessed against the property owner rather than a contractor or tenant.