Garage conversion rules in Cupertino, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Cupertino allows converting a garage or accessory structure into an accessory dwelling unit under Municipal Code Chapter 19.112, and no replacement parking is required when covered parking is removed for an ADU. A building permit is required to confirm the converted space meets dwelling standards.
Under CMC Chapter 19.112, converting existing space within a single-family dwelling or an accessory structure such as a garage into an ADU is a permitted, ministerially reviewed project (CMC 19.112.030 and 19.112.050). Conversion ADUs have a minimum size of 150 s.f. and, when wholly within the existing garage footprint, no maximum size, provided no addition larger than 150 s.f. is needed for ingress and egress. Independent outside access must be provided without passing through the principal dwelling. Importantly, when a covered, uncovered, or enclosed parking space is demolished or converted to create an ADU, no replacement parking spaces are required (CMC 19.112.040). A building permit is required to confirm the converted space meets California Building Code dwelling standards.
Converting a garage into living space without a permit can trigger correction notices, orders to legalize or restore the space, and penalties for unpermitted work.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle garage conversions.
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