ADU rules in Fresno, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
FMC §15-2754 implements CA Gov Code §65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft allowed on single-family lots. 4 ft side/rear setbacks. ADUs under 750 sq ft exempt from impact fees. Pre-approved plans available through the city.
FMC §15-2754: single-family lots may have 1 ADU + 1 JADU (if owner-occupied). Detached ADU max height 16 ft; attached ADU max 25 ft. Min 4 ft rear/side setbacks (conversions exempt). ADUs under 750 sq ft exempt from impact fees per state law. Fire sprinklers not required if not required for primary home. Parking: 1 space/bedroom max; exempt within ½ mile of transit. 5 pre-approved plans available from city. 60-day maximum review period. Owner-occupancy not required for permits Jan 2020–Dec 2024. AB 1033 (2024) allows ADU condo-ization.
Unpermitted ADU: stop-work order, retroactive permit required, fines.
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not regulate decorative lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round yard decorations on private property. Property maintenance standards in FMC Chapt...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not specifically regulate residential inflatable holiday displays. There is no size cap, lighting curfew, or fan-noise limit specific to inflatab...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating residential holiday light displays. Display dates, brightness, and decorative content are not regulated ...
Fresno, CA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Fresno require building, electrical, plumbing, and gas permits under FMC Chapter 11 (Building Regulations), which adopts the Cal...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating backyard smokers or wood-fired ovens by time of day. Use is governed by the general nuisance provisions ...
Fresno, CA
Fresno enforces the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted in FMC Chapter 10, Article 5 (Fire Prevention). Under CFC §308.1.4 (the California amended version ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fresno County.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle adu rules.
See how Fresno's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.