ADU rules in Huntington Beach, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Huntington Beach allows accessory dwelling units per California state ADU law (Government Code 65852.2). The city offers a pre-approved 490 sq ft ADU plan to streamline the process.
California's ADU law (Government Code Section 65852.2) requires cities to permit ADUs in residential zones. Huntington Beach allows both detached and attached ADUs. Detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 sq ft. The city offers an HB Pre-Approved ADU Plan for a 1-story, 490 sq ft detached unit to speed permitting. Junior ADUs (JADUs) up to 500 sq ft within the existing home are also allowed. ADUs do not count toward or trigger affordable housing obligations. Setback, height, and design standards apply. No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs per state law.
Building an unpermitted ADU results in fines and required compliance. The city may issue stop-work orders for unpermitted construction.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle adu rules.
See how Huntington Beach's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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