Ridgecrest, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

The City of Ridgecrest implements California's statewide ADU law through its Planning Division. Under Government Code §65852.2, all single-family lots may have one ADU plus one JADU; detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 sq ft of livable floor area, and attached ADUs may not exceed 50% of the existing primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft (whichever is less). Detached ADU height is capped at 16 feet (or 18 feet within a half-mile of public transit or on lots with multiple existing stories). Attached ADUs may rise to 25 feet to match the primary dwelling. The minimum required setback for new-construction ADUs is 4 feet from the rear and interior side property lines; front and street-side setbacks follow the underlying zone. Conversions of legally established existing structures (such as garages or guest houses) are exempt from setback requirements. ADUs less than 750 sq ft of livable area are exempt from City impact fees. Fire sprinklers in an ADU are not required if they are not required for the primary residence. Ministerial review applies — Ridgecrest must approve a complete, code-compliant application within 60 days under state law.