ADU rules in Sonora, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Sonora must allow ADUs per California Government Code section 65852.2. State law permits detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet with 4-foot side and rear setbacks and 16-foot height limit. ADUs cannot be used as short-term rentals under Chapter 17.64.
California's ADU law (Government Code section 65852.2) requires all cities to allow ADUs in single-family and multi-family zones. Maximum size is 1,200 square feet for detached ADUs. Height limit is 16 feet for detached ADUs on lots with existing single-family homes, 25 feet if attached. Junior ADUs up to 500 square feet are allowed within the primary structure. Parking cannot exceed one space per bedroom and is waived within half a mile of transit. ADUs must be rented for terms longer than 30 days. AB 1033 (2024) allows ADU condo-ization for separate sale. Permit review must be completed within 60 days. Notably, Chapter 17.64 prohibits ADUs from being used as short-term rentals in Sonora.
Using an ADU as an STR violates Chapter 17.64. Building an ADU without permits violates SMC Title 15.10.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tuolumne County.
See how other cities in Tuolumne County handle adu rules.
See how Sonora's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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