ADU rules in Cupertino, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Cupertino permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on lots in any residential or mixed-use residential district under Municipal Code Chapter 19.112. Conforming ADUs are approved ministerially, and standard ADUs carry no owner-occupancy requirement, consistent with California ADU law (Government Code Sections 66310 to 66342).
Chapter 19.112 governs ADUs and junior ADUs (JADUs) and defers to state law (Gov. Code 66310 to 66342) in any conflict. Up to three ADUs are allowed per single-family lot in combinations of attached, detached, conversion, and junior units. Streamlined ADUs (CMC 19.112.030) allow new construction up to 800 s.f., minimum 150 s.f., with 4-foot side and rear setbacks, 18-foot height for detached units, and no required parking. Non-streamlined ADUs (CMC 19.112.040) may reach 850 s.f. for a studio or one-bedroom and 1,000 s.f. for larger units. Conforming applications are reviewed ministerially (CMC 19.112.050). No impact fees apply under 750 s.f. Owner-occupancy is required only for JADUs. ADUs may not be rented for terms under 30 days.
Building an ADU without the required ministerial permit can trigger correction notices, stop-work orders, and legalization or removal requirements.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle adu rules.
See how Cupertino's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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