Reedley, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Reedley permits garage-to-ADU conversions on eligible residential lots under Municipal Code Chapter 10.52, consistent with California's statewide ADU laws codified in Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22. Garage conversions are among the most cost-effective ways to create an ADU because they use an existing foundation and shell, typically resulting in 400-600 square foot studios or one-bedroom units at a fraction of the cost of new construction. Under state law, the city cannot require replacement parking when a garage is converted to an ADU, regardless of whether the property has off-street parking remaining after the conversion. This protection applies to attached garages, detached garages, carports, and any covered parking structure. No additional setbacks are required for converted structures that were legally established in their current location, even if the existing garage is closer to the property line than current zoning would allow for new construction. This means a garage built right on or near the property line decades ago can be converted to an ADU without needing a variance or setback modification. The conversion must bring the entire space up to California Building Code standards for habitable rooms, which involves substantial construction work beyond simply adding walls and fixtures. Minimum ceiling height for habitable rooms is 7 feet, which can be challenging in some garages with lower ceilings or overhead storage structures. Adequate natural light must be provided, with glazing area equal to at least 8 percent of the floor area, and natural ventilation openings equal to at least 4 percent of the floor area. Insulation must meet current Title 24 energy code requirements, which typically means adding wall insulation, ceiling insulation, and weather-stripping to a space originally designed to be uninsulated. Bedrooms must have emergency egress windows meeting minimum size requirements (5.7 square feet clear opening for ground floor, 5 square feet above ground floor). Fire separation from adjacent structures and the primary dwelling must meet California Fire Code requirements. Electrical and plumbing systems must be upgraded to current code, including dedicated circuits, adequate receptacles, and proper drainage connections. A building permit is required for all garage conversions, with plans showing the proposed layout, structural modifications, and compliance with all applicable codes. The converted ADU must have independent exterior access and a kitchen facility with a sink, cooking appliance, refrigerator space, and food preparation counter to qualify as a full ADU rather than a JADU. JADUs converted within an attached garage may share bathroom facilities with the primary dwelling and are limited to 500 square feet. Contact the Community Development Department at (559) 637-4200 for permit guidance and plan review requirements.