Pomona's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Pomona, California, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Shed Rules

The Pomona Zoning and Development Code regulates accessory structures including sheds. Structures under 120 square feet may be exempt from building permits but must comply with setback and placement requirements.

Key details: Code: Pomona Zoning & Development Code. Permit Exempt: 120 sq ft or less (single-story). Max Height: 1 story / 15 feet. Setback: Typically 3-5 ft from property lines. Building & Safety: (909) 620-2281.

Unpermitted structures are subject to code enforcement. The city actively cites illegal garage conversions and unpermitted ADUs. Violations may result in demolition orders, fines, and liens.

Garage Conversions

Pomona allows garage conversions to ADUs under Ordinance No. 4281 and state law. Converted garages don't require replacement parking. The residential use of garages is regulated under the Zoning Code.

Key details: Replacement Parking: Not required. Setback Exempt: Yes, for conversions. Height Limit: N/A for conversions. Code Section: Ord. 4281; GC §65852.2.

Illegal garage conversions are a common code violation. Legalization provisions under AB 2533 apply to units built before 2020. Contact Code Compliance for enforcement questions.

Tiny Homes

Tiny homes in Pomona are regulated as ADUs if permanent. CA Gov Code Section 65852.2 allows ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Tiny homes on wheels may be classified as RVs and subject to parking restrictions.

Key details: Permanent: Regulated as ADU per state law. Max Size (ADU): 1,200 sq ft detached. On Wheels: May be classified as RV. State Law: CA Gov Code Section 65852.2.

Unpermitted dwellings: removal or retroactive permitting. Zoning violations: fines and required relocation. Occupancy without certificate: prohibited.

ADU Rules

Pomona regulates ADUs under Zoning Code Section 830.A and Ordinance No. 4281. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are allowed. No minimum lot size. Height up to 16 ft detached, 25 ft attached. 4-foot side/rear setbacks required.

Key details: Max Size (Detached): 1,200 sq ft. Height (Detached): 16 ft. Setbacks: 4 ft side/rear. Code Section: Zoning §830.A; Ord. 4281.

Unpermitted ADUs are subject to code enforcement. Legalization provisions under AB 2533 apply to units built before January 1, 2020.

Carport Rules

Carport construction in Pomona requires a building permit and must comply with the Zoning and Development Code setback requirements. Carports cannot encroach into required setback areas.

Key details: Permit: Building permit required. Setbacks: Must comply with zoning code. Code: Pomona Zoning & Development Code. Building Codes: 2022 CA Building Codes.

Unpermitted carports: stop-work orders, required removal or retroactive permitting with penalty fees. Fines $200 to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

Pomona's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Pomona is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Pomona can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.