Garage conversion rules in Vista, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Vista allows garage conversions to ADUs under state law (Gov. Code 65852.2). No replacement parking required when converting a garage. Building permits required. Converted garages must meet residential building code.
Vista allows garage conversions to ADUs under California Government Code 65852.2. When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted for ADU construction, replacement parking is not required under state law. Converted garages must meet residential building code standards including minimum ceiling height, natural light, ventilation, egress, electrical, and plumbing. The conversion counts as a single-family converted ADU. Junior ADUs (up to 500 sq ft within existing structures including garages) offer a streamlined option. Building permits are required; Vista requires in-person submissions. No setback is required for existing structures converted to ADUs in the same footprint. The ADU may not be used as a short-term rental under VMC Chapter 8.34.
Conversion without permit: stop-work order. Non-compliant conversion: mandatory correction to building code.
Vista, CA
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Vista, CA
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Vista, CA
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Vista, CA
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Vista, CA
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Vista, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle garage conversions.
See how Vista's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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