Accessory Structures in Hayward, CA (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Hayward, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Hayward permits ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft and JADUs up to 500 sq ft on single-family and multi-family lots under California Government Code 65852.2.
Hayward ADU Rules
Few RestrictionsADU Permits
Hayward processes Accessory Dwelling Unit and Junior ADU permits ministerially under Hayward Municipal Code section 10-1.2740 (Chapter 10 Zoning, Article 1) and California Government Code 65852.2 and 65852.22. Applications are filed with the Hayward Planning Division / Development Services Center. State law requires the City to act on a complete application within 60 days.
Hayward ADU Permit Process (HMC 10-1.2740)
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Under California Government Code 65852.2(f)(3) and HMC 10-1.2740, Hayward ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from all city impact fees. ADUs 750 sq ft and larger pay impact fees proportional to the primary dwelling's size. Standard building permit and plan-check fees still apply at any size, set by Hayward's Master Fee Schedule.
Hayward ADU Impact Fees and 750 Sq Ft Exemption
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Hayward does not impose an owner-occupancy requirement on detached or attached ADUs under HMC 10-1.2740 and California Government Code 65852.2(a)(6). Owner-occupancy is still required when a JADU is on the property, per Government Code 65852.22(a)(2). The owner must occupy either the main dwelling or the JADU.
Hayward ADU Owner-Occupancy Rules (JADU Only)
Some RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Hayward ADUs and JADUs must be rented for terms of 30 days or longer under HMC 10-1.2740 and California Government Code 65852.2(a)(6). Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO under 30 days) are prohibited. ADUs are generally exempt from the Hayward Residential Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RRSO) when the primary dwelling remains owner-occupied.
Hayward ADU Rental Restrictions (30-Day Minimum)
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds up to 120 square feet are exempt from building permits in Hayward but must meet zoning setbacks of 3 feet from side and rear lines.
Hayward Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Hayward permits garage-to-ADU conversions with no replacement parking required under California ADU law.
Hayward Garage Conversions
Few RestrictionsCarport Rules
Hayward allows carports as accessory structures with a building permit and zoning setback compliance. Front-yard carports are generally prohibited.
Hayward Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Hayward allows tiny homes as ADUs on foundations. Tiny homes on wheels are restricted; Movable Tiny Houses are allowed as JADU equivalents in some cases.
Hayward Tiny Home Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Alameda County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Hayward city rules.
Accessory Structures in Alameda County →