Garage conversion rules in Davis, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Converting a garage into living space or an accessory dwelling unit in Davis is governed by the ADU provisions in Davis Municipal Code Section 40.26.450 and state ADU law. When a garage or carport is converted to an ADU, the city may not require replacement of the displaced off-street parking.
A garage may be converted into an ADU or junior ADU under DMC 40.26.450, which provides ministerial (by-right) review. State ADU law prohibits Davis from requiring that off-street parking be replaced when a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished for, or converted into, an ADU (Gov. Code Section 66314). A JADU may be created within the walls of the existing single-family dwelling or an attached garage; the city may not require parking as a condition of a JADU permit. Converting a garage to habitable space still requires building permits, and the finished space must meet building-code standards for light, ventilation, egress, and alarms. An unpermitted conversion generally may not be used as a separate rental dwelling.
Converting a garage to living space or a rental unit without permits is a code violation. Davis Code Enforcement can require permitting, correction to code, or reversion, and unpermitted work may complicate future sale of the property.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Yolo County.
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