ADU rules in Santa Maria, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Santa Maria allows ADUs on residential lots zoned RA, R-1, RSL-1, R-2, R-3, and RMH per California state law. ADUs are approved ministerially within 120 days of a complete application.
Santa Maria permits accessory dwelling units on all residential zoned lots (RA, R-1, RSL-1, R-2, R-3, RMH) occupied with a single-family home or with approved plans for one. ADUs are approved ministerially (no discretionary review) and must be processed within 120 days of a complete application, with completeness determined within 30 days. The Community Development Director issues building permits if all requirements are met. Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted. California state law (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881) sets maximum requirements cities can impose.
Unpermitted ADUs face enforcement action. Non-compliant structures must be brought to code.
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See how Santa Maria's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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