Garage conversion rules in Simi Valley, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Simi Valley allows garage conversions to ADUs under California's streamlined ADU law. Converted garages are exempt from replacement parking requirements, but must meet building code standards for habitable space including insulation, ventilation, and egress.
Under California Government Code 65852.2, Simi Valley must allow conversion of existing garages to ADUs without requiring replacement parking spaces. Garage conversions require a building permit and must be brought up to habitable space standards including insulation (Title 24 energy compliance), drywall, ventilation, proper egress windows, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and independent plumbing and electrical. The conversion must include a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom. Converting a garage to a JADU (Junior ADU under 500 square feet) within the existing footprint of the primary dwelling may have a simplified permit process. The city cannot impose setback or lot coverage requirements that prevent garage conversion to an ADU.
Converting a garage to living space without a permit is a building code violation. Unpermitted conversions present fire and safety hazards and may not be insured. The city may require restoration of the garage or retroactive permitting. Fines and stop-work orders apply to unpermitted work.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
See how other cities in Ventura County handle garage conversions.
See how Simi Valley's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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