Garage conversion rules in Visalia, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Visalia MC section 17.14.060(B) recognizes a stand-alone garage converted into an ADU as a Detached ADU, and 17.14.080(C)(1)(c) waives off-street parking for ADUs that are part of an existing primary residence or existing accessory structure. Section 17.14.080(C)(4) further provides that if a garage is demolished or converted in conjunction with an ADU, replacement parking is not required.
Visalia's Chapter 17.14 (adopted January 21, 2025) implements California Gov. Code section 66323 for converted ADUs. Section 17.14.060(C) defines a Converted ADU as one entirely located within the existing primary dwelling or an accessory structure including attached garages, storage areas, studios, pool houses, or similar structures. Section 17.14.100 sets the standards: (A) Conversions may include an expansion of not more than 150 sq ft beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing structure if the expansion is for the sole purpose of accommodating ingress and egress; (B) the converted space must have exterior access; (C) an ADU within an existing dwelling or detached accessory structure shall not require a setback from the rear, street side, or interior side property lines; (D) no additional off-street parking is required; (E) the conversion is not subject to ADU unit-size requirements (so a 2,000 sq ft existing accessory structure can become a 2,000 sq ft ADU). Section 17.14.080(C)(4) also confirms that demolishing or converting a garage in conjunction with an ADU does not require replacement parking. Converting a garage to ordinary livable space (not an ADU) is permitted but requires a building permit and must maintain any minimum off-street parking required by Chapter 17.42.
Converting a garage without permits is a violation of both the California Building Code and Visalia MC Title 17. Code Enforcement can require removal of the unpermitted conversion, restoration of the garage, and assessment of permit fees plus penalties. If the converted space is used as a separate dwelling without ministerial approval as an ADU/JADU, the city may issue an abatement order. Section 17.14.080(I) confirms that Chapter 17.14 does not legalize any existing illegal ADU; an illegal converted garage must go through the same ministerial process as a new ADU to become compliant.
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