How Selma Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Selma maintains 97 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Selma falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tiny Homes

Tiny homes on foundations are treated as ADUs in Selma (150-1,000 sq ft). Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot be permanent residences.

Key details: Minimum Size (ADU): 150 sq ft. Maximum Size (Detached): 1,000 sq ft. Tiny Home on Wheels: Classified as RV, no permanent occupancy. Factory-Built Certification: HCD approval required.

Occupying a tiny home on wheels as a permanent residence is a zoning violation. Placing an uncertified tiny home structure on a lot without permits may result in a stop-work order and requirement to remove the structure. Unpermitted habitable structures are subject to code enforcement action.

ADU Rules

Selma allows ADUs on any residential lot. Detached up to 1,000 sq ft, JADU up to 500 sq ft. Pre-approved plans available. Impact fees waived under 750 sq ft.

Key details: Max Detached ADU: 1,000 sq ft. Max JADU: 500 sq ft. Minimum Size: 150 sq ft. Non-Conforming Lot ADU: Up to 800 sq ft, 4-ft setbacks. Impact Fees Waived: ADUs under 750 sq ft.

Building an ADU without required permits may result in stop-work orders and penalties. Unpermitted ADUs must be brought into compliance through the permit process. The Building Department may require removal of noncompliant construction.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Selma gives residents more flexibility on adu rules.

Shed Rules

Sheds under 120 sq ft are permit-exempt in Selma. Larger sheds need building permits and must meet zoning setbacks. No habitable use without ADU compliance.

Key details: Permit Exempt: Under 120 sq ft, one story. Side/Rear Setback: Typically 5 feet minimum. Habitable Use: Must meet ADU requirements. Building Code: 2022 California Building Code.

Building a shed over 120 square feet without a permit may result in a correction notice requiring the owner to obtain permits and inspections. Sheds placed in required setbacks may be ordered relocated or removed. Converting a shed to habitable space without ADU permits is a code violation subject to fines.

The rules around shed rules in Selma lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Garage Conversions

Selma allows garage-to-ADU conversions with no replacement parking required. Fire-rated separations and separate systems needed. Up to 150 sq ft expansion allowed.

Key details: Replacement Parking: Not required. Setback Expansion: Up to 150 sq ft for ingress/egress. Fire Separation: Required for attached conversions. JADU Max Size: 500 sq ft within attached garage. Impact Fees: Waived under 750 sq ft.

Converting a garage to living space without permits is a building code violation. Unpermitted conversions may result in stop-work orders and requirements to obtain retroactive permits. The City may require restoration to the original use if the conversion does not meet code.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Selma gives residents more flexibility on garage conversions.

Carport Rules

Carports in Selma require building permits and must meet setback and lot coverage limits. Open carports may have reduced setbacks. ADU conversion allowed without replacement parking.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes. Lot Coverage: Counts toward maximum. Open Sides: May qualify for reduced setbacks. ADU Conversion: No replacement parking required.

Building a carport without a permit may result in a stop-work order and requirement to obtain retroactive permits and inspections. Carports exceeding lot coverage or violating setbacks may be ordered modified or removed. Unpermitted carports may complicate property sales and insurance.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Selma gives residents more room on accessory structures. 3 of the 5 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

This guide is based on Selma's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.