ADU rules in Chula Vista, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Chula Vista regulates accessory dwelling units under CVMC Title 19 in compliance with California Government Code sections 65852.2 and 65852.22. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are permitted on single-family lots, with a streamlined ministerial approval process. Junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft are allowed within existing primary residences.
The City of Chula Vista permits accessory dwelling units on residential lots consistent with state ADU law. A detached ADU may be up to 1,200 square feet with a maximum height of 16 feet and minimum 4-foot side and rear setbacks under the state-mandated provisions. An 850 sq ft studio/one-bedroom or 1,000 sq ft two-bedroom ADU is permitted by right regardless of lot coverage or floor area ratio limits. An ADU may be served by the same water and sewer lateral connections as the primary residence. ADUs must meet California Residential Code and Building Code standards for fire protection, ventilation, structural integrity, heating, plumbing, and adequate natural light. A building permit is required; no conditional use permit or discretionary review applies. Owner-occupancy requirements follow current state law. ADUs cannot be sold separately from the primary dwelling unless permitted by state law.
Building without a permit subjects the property owner to code enforcement action under CVMC Title 1 general penalty provisions. Stop-work orders may be issued for unpermitted construction. Fines and required demolition or retroactive permitting may apply.
Chula Vista, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
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