Santa Cruz, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

SCMC 24.16.125(2) defines a 'conversion accessory dwelling unit' as an ADU created by converting an existing permitted, entitled, or legal nonconforming building (including a garage), either reusing the structure or reconstructing within the existing three-dimensional space, and permits expansion of the footprint by up to 150 sq ft and height by up to 2 feet. SCMC 24.16.130(9) provides the city shall not require written notice or a placard to demolish a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU (unless in a historic district), and 24.16.130(10) requires the demolition permit to be issued concurrently with the ADU permit. A garage may have interior access to an ADU (SCMC 24.16.141(5)). Where covered parking is removed by a conversion, no replacement parking is required outside the Coastal Zone (SCMC 24.16.141(2)). The City of Santa Cruz Municipal Code provides that '[c]overed parking. At least 1 of the required parking spaces for each dwelling unit shall be covered, within a carport or a garage unless otherwise specified within Title 24,' and that a garage/carport space 'shall be not less than 19 feet in length by 8.5 feet in width.' These ministerial conversion rules implement California's ADU statute (Cal. Gov. Code 66314 et seq.).