Menifee, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish development standards for accessory dwelling units and to ensure the accessory dwelling unit is constructed and operated in a manner that is consistent with the requirements and allowances of state law, specifically Government Code Section 65852.2. [...] Building Permit Required. Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units shall be approved ministerially through building plan check review and the issuance of a building permit and any other non-discretionary permit (e.g., grading permit) that may be required as applicable. [...] The City shall either approve or deny the application to create or serve an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit within 60 days from the date of receiving a completed application if there is an existing single-family dwelling on the lot. [...] f. The maximum total floor area for an attached or detached accessory dwelling unit is 1,500 square feet. [...] Side and Rear Setback. A setback of no more than four feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory dwelling unit that is not converted from an existing structure or a new structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure. [...] ii. Height. 1. A maximum height of 18 feet for a detached accessory dwelling unit on a lot with an existing or proposed single Family or multifamily dwelling unit. 2. A maximum height of 20 feet for a detached accessory dwelling unit on a lot with an existing or proposed single Family or multifamily dwelling unit that is within one-half mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high quality transit corridor [...] i. One off-street parking space shall be required for the accessory dwelling unit. The space may be uncovered and shall be permitted in setback areas or as tandem parking, unless the location is not feasible based upon specific site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions. [...] Development Impact Fees. Development impact fees shall not be required for an accessory dwelling unit less than 750 square feet in size. Any impact fees charged for an accessory dwelling unit of 750 square feet or more shall be charged proportionally in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit. [...] j. Accessory dwelling units shall be compatible with the architectural style of the primary dwelling. No bare metal, unpainted or unfinished structures are allowed. To determine architectural compatibility, the accessory dwelling unit structure must possess at least three of the following traits in common with the primary dwelling on-site: i. Wall covering materials. ii. Roofing material. iii. Roofing pitch. iv. Structural eaves. v. Mass and scale of structure relative to structural height. vi. Window characteristics. vii. Decorative treatments.