Jurupa Valley, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Under Jurupa Valley Municipal Code Sec. 290 (Ordinance No. 2025-22), an 'existing structure' eligible for ADU conversion expressly includes a detached garage that can be safely converted into habitable space under the California Building Standards Code. A garage-conversion ADU within the existing footprint qualifies for the building-permit-only track of Government Code Sec. 66323 - no planning application is needed - and may expand up to 150 sq ft beyond the existing dimensions solely for ingress and egress. No setback is required for an ADU within an existing structure or one rebuilt in the same location and dimensions.

When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is converted or demolished to create an ADU, the city may not require replacement of the eliminated parking spaces while the ADU remains in lawful use, and a demolition permit for a detached garage being replaced by an ADU is reviewed and issued together with the ADU application. A JADU of up to 500 sq ft may also be created within an attached garage, since JADUs must be contained entirely within the walls of the existing or proposed single-family dwelling, including attached garages.

Converting a garage to non-ADU living space still requires building permits under Title 8 of the Municipal Code. Owners of garages converted without permits before Jan. 1, 2020 may seek legalization under AB 2533 per the city's Building and Safety handout.