ADU rules in Napa, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
City of Napa permits ADUs and JADUs on residential lots under Napa Municipal Code Title 17, consistent with California Gov Code §65852.2 (renumbered §66310-66339 by SB 477) and §65852.22. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft; JADUs to 500 sq ft.
Napa's ADU regulations conform to the state ADU mandate in Gov Code §65852.2 (renumbered §66310-66339 by SB 477) and §65852.22 for JADUs. ADUs and JADUs are allowed by right in residential zones. Detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 sq ft; attached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less. JADUs are capped at 500 sq ft within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling. Side and rear setbacks are 4 feet for new construction; conversions of existing structures need no setback. AB 587 removed owner-occupancy for ADUs through 2025. Napa has not opted in to AB 1033, so ADUs cannot be sold as separate condos.
Unpermitted ADUs cannot be legalized without compliance with current zoning, building, and state ADU standards. Renting an unpermitted ADU exposes the owner to Code Enforcement citations, retroactive permit fees, and landlord-tenant liability.
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See how Napa's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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