ADU rules in Irvine, CA β also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances β cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Irvine regulates accessory dwelling units under its Zoning Ordinance consistent with California Government Code Section 65852.2. ADUs are approved ministerially through a building permit on single-family lots, with detached units up to 1,200 square feet permitted by right.
The City of Irvine processes ADU and JADU applications per state statute using a Residential Accessory Dwelling Unit (RADU) application and ADU Verification Form. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet are permitted on single-family lots with a maximum height of 16 feet and minimum 4-foot rear and side setbacks. Junior ADUs up to 500 square feet are allowed within existing primary residences. ADUs may be established through conversion of existing spaces such as garages or through new construction that is attached to or detached from the primary home. No replacement parking is required for garage conversions. Multi-family properties may add detached ADUs equal to 25% of existing units or at least two ADUs.
Building an ADU without a permit is subject to code enforcement action. Stop-work orders, fines, and required retroactive permitting may apply. Contact Code Enforcement at (949) 724-6326.
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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.
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