Fresno, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Fresno Municipal Code (Citywide Development Code) Section 15-2754 treats a converted garage that becomes independent living quarters as a Second Dwelling Unit (ADU). The local code states that required parking for the primary single-family dwelling may not be removed for the creation of any of the three accessory unit types (e.g., garage conversions), or allocated to meet the accessory unit's parking, unless replacement parking is provided. However, California's ADU statute preempts this: under Government Code Section 66314, when a garage, carport, covered parking structure, or uncovered parking space is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU, the local agency shall not require that those off-street parking spaces be replaced. A garage converted purely to non-habitable accessory space (no cooking, no independent living) is instead governed by Section 15-2004, which allows an accessory structure to contain a toilet, shower, and sink but prohibits bathtubs and stoves and requires a covenant prohibiting use as habitable space. All conversions require a building permit through the City's Citizen Access portal to verify Building Code compliance (egress, light, ventilation, smoke detectors).