Placer County, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Under Placer County Code § 17.56.200 (Accessory and junior accessory dwelling units), an ADU may be created through conversion of an existing garage, carport, or other covered parking structure on a single-family property. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is converted to an ADU, Placer County does not require that the displaced off-street parking spaces be replaced, consistent with California Government Code § 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(xi). Additionally, no additional off-street parking is required for ADUs converted from a garage, carport, or other covered parking space, or for junior ADUs (JADUs). For an existing garage being converted in place, the existing footprint and setbacks are accepted. A building permit is required in all cases to verify that the converted space meets California Residential Code habitability standards: minimum ceiling height, ventilation, emergency egress, fire separation from any remaining attached garage area, electrical and plumbing systems, and energy code compliance under Title 24. Property owners are encouraged to contact the Placer County Accessory Home team before preparing construction documents.