ADU rules in Riverside, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 19.442 governs Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Junior ADUs (JADUs) and Movable ADUs (MADUs). Every single-family and multi-family property in the city is eligible for at least one ADU and one JADU under state law and §19.442.030.
Per RMC §19.442.030, detached ADUs may not exceed 1,200 sq ft of livable space; attached ADUs are capped at 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less. JADUs are limited to 500 sq ft and must be created within the walls of an existing or proposed single-family dwelling. Movable ADUs (MADUs) must be between 150 and 430 sq ft. Side and rear setbacks of 4 ft apply to new one-story ADUs and MADUs under 16 ft in height; ADUs taller than 16 ft must meet the underlying zone's setbacks. Front and street-side setbacks follow the underlying zone in all cases. There is no minimum lot size to establish an ADU, JADU, or MADU, and the ADU floor area is excluded when calculating lot coverage. The chapter title was amended by Ordinance 7592 (July 5, 2022) to consolidate ADU and JADU provisions.
ADUs built or occupied without a permit are subject to Riverside Municipal Code Title 1 enforcement: administrative citations starting at $100 (first), $200 (second), and $500 (subsequent) per RMC §1.17, plus stop-work orders and an order to demolish or legalize the unauthorized structure issued by the Building Official.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
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