ADU rules in Hayward, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Hayward permits ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft and JADUs up to 500 sq ft on single-family and multi-family lots under California Government Code 65852.2.
Hayward allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) on any lot zoned for residential use, in compliance with California Government Code 65852.2 and 65852.22. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet and 16 feet tall (or 18 to 25 feet with specific conditions) are ministerially approved. JADUs up to 500 square feet within an existing primary dwelling are also ministerial. Minimum setbacks are 4 feet from side and rear property lines, and no setback is required for conversions of existing garages or structures. Hayward cannot impose owner-occupancy requirements on ADUs permitted between 2020 and 2025 and limited requirements after. No replacement parking is required when a garage is converted. Permit review is capped at 60 days under SB 897. Impact fees are waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle adu rules.
See how Hayward's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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