Garage conversion rules in Hayward, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Hayward permits garage-to-ADU conversions with no replacement parking required under California ADU law.
Converting an attached or detached garage into an ADU or JADU is specifically encouraged under California Government Code 65852.2. Hayward ministerially approves garage conversions within 60 days and cannot require replacement off-street parking, even if the conversion eliminates all covered parking on the lot. Converted garages must meet California Residential Code habitability minimums: 7-foot ceiling height, egress windows in sleeping rooms, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, a separate 30-amp or greater electrical subpanel, insulation to Title 24 energy standards, and weatherproof exterior finish. The existing garage footprint may be retained even if current setbacks are non-conforming. Conversions to non-ADU living space such as a family room or home office are also permitted but require a full building permit and compliance with current zoning setbacks.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Hayward, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle garage conversions.
See how Hayward's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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