Tulare, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Under Gov. Code § 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(xi), 'when a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit or converted to an accessory dwelling unit, the local agency shall not require that those off-street parking spaces be replaced.' Conversions of legally established structures are also exempt from local setback requirements (Gov. Code § 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(vii)). Tulare must process the application ministerially (no discretionary review, no public hearing) within 60 days under Gov. Code § 65852.2(b)(2). Fire sprinklers are not required if the primary residence does not have them. Maximum ADU size on a single-family lot in Tulare is 800 sq ft for an attached/converted ADU under state minimums, though larger may be allowed; minimum is 150 sq ft. Conversion of habitable garage space must still meet Title 24 (California Building Code) habitability requirements: minimum ceiling height, egress windows, smoke/CO alarms, insulation, heating, and a kitchen with a sink. Owner-occupancy cannot be required for ADUs permitted between 2020 and 2025 under SB 13 (Gov. Code § 65852.2(a)(6)).