Accessory Structures in Sunnyvale, CA (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Sunnyvale, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Sunnyvale allows ADUs and JADUs on single-family and multifamily lots under California Government Code 65852.2 plus AB 68, 881, and SB 13. AB 1033 now allows ADUs to be sold as separate condos.
ADU Rules in Sunnyvale
Few RestrictionsADU Permits
Sunnyvale processes ADU permits ministerially under Sunnyvale Municipal Code Title 19 (Zoning) and California Government Code 65852.2. Sunnyvale was one of the earliest California cities to adopt by-right ADU regulations (2017) and consistently rates as one of the most permissive Silicon Valley jurisdictions. State law requires action within 60 days of a complete application.
Sunnyvale ADU Permit Process (SMC Title 19)
Few RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Under California Government Code 65852.2(f)(3), Sunnyvale ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from all city impact fees. ADUs 750 square feet or larger pay impact fees proportional to the primary dwelling. Sunnyvale's own permit and plan-check fees are moderate by Silicon Valley standards.
Sunnyvale ADU Impact Fees and 750 Sq Ft Exemption
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Under SMC Title 19 and California Government Code 65852.2(a)(8), Sunnyvale does NOT require owner-occupancy for standard ADUs. Owner-occupancy is required only for Junior ADUs (JADUs) under California Government Code 65852.22, with a deed restriction recorded against the property.
Sunnyvale ADU Owner-Occupancy Rules (JADU Only)
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Sunnyvale prohibits short-term rentals of ADUs - stays must be 30 days or longer under California Government Code 65852.2(a)(6) and SMC Title 19. Long-term ADU rentals are not subject to local rent control (Sunnyvale has no rent stabilization ordinance) but are subject to statewide AB 1482 just-cause and rent-cap protections.
Sunnyvale ADU Rental Restrictions (30-Day Minimum)
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sunnyvale allows backyard sheds up to 120 square feet without a building permit under Municipal Code Chapter 19.38. Sheds must meet setbacks and cannot be used as living space or connected to utilities.
Shed Rules in Sunnyvale
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Sunnyvale allows garage conversions to ADUs or JADUs under state law. Detached garage ADUs are ministerial. Replacement parking is no longer required under California AB 68 and updated ADU rules.
Garage Conversion Rules in Sunnyvale
Few RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports are permitted in Sunnyvale as accessory structures under Municipal Code Chapter 19.38. Residential carports must meet zoning setbacks, height limits, and building permit requirements when over 120 square feet.
Carport Rules in Sunnyvale
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on foundations qualify as ADUs in Sunnyvale under state law. Tiny homes on wheels are regulated as RVs and cannot be used as permanent dwellings outside of RV parks or approved JADU setups.
Tiny Home Rules in Sunnyvale
Some RestrictionsLooking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Sunnyvale city rules.
Accessory Structures in Santa Clara County →