Sutter County, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

There is no separate 'garage conversion' ordinance in unincorporated Sutter County; conversions are handled through the ADU and JADU provisions of the Zoning Code. Under Section 1500-10-040, an ADU created by converting existing space in a primary residence or an accessory structure (such as a garage) may be the dimensions of the existing structure plus up to 150 square feet added for ingress and egress, with larger expansions permitted up to a 1,200-square-foot maximum. Conversions of existing space require no additional setback and, where applicable, no new or separate utility connection between the ADU and the utility for a conversion within an existing single-family residence or accessory structure. Alternatively, Section 1500-10-050 allows a Junior ADU (JADU) of up to 500 square feet established from space within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or an attached garage; a JADU requires a separate exterior entrance, an efficiency kitchen, owner occupancy of either unit, a recorded deed restriction, and is limited to one per lot. Both ADUs and JADUs are ministerially permitted by Zoning Clearance. Building, fire, septic, and well codes still apply, and converting required garage parking does not by itself trigger a parking-replacement mandate for the ADU.