ADU rules in Lincoln, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Lincoln regulates Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 18.37, which must conform to California Gov. Code §65852.2 (state ADU law). One ADU plus one Junior ADU is permitted by right on single-family lots.
Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 18.37 governs ADU development standards including size, height, setbacks, and parking. Local rules must align with the state floor in Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2: ADUs up to 850 sq ft (or 1,000 sq ft for 2+ bedrooms) are allowed by right regardless of local zoning floor-area standards; 4-foot side and rear setbacks; 16-foot height for detached ADUs (18-25 feet for certain transit/multifamily lots); ministerial approval (no discretionary review). Lincoln also participates in AB 1332 pre-approved plans, offering city-vetted 661 sq ft (1BR) and 746 sq ft (2BR) designs that receive 30-day approval. JADUs (junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft) are permitted inside the existing primary dwelling per Gov. Code §65852.22.
Building or occupying an ADU without permits violates Chapter 15 (Building Code) and Chapter 18.37. Standard code enforcement: notice of violation, daily fines under LMC §1.20 administrative penalties (typically $100 first offense, $200 second, $500 each subsequent within 12 months per Gov. Code §53069.4), and stop-work orders. Unpermitted ADUs may be ineligible for occupancy and homeowner insurance.
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