ADU Rules: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do adu rules rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo has fewer restrictions than Ojai.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Camarillo permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs) on residential lots per California Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22, as implemented through CMC Title 19 zoning standards. ADUs up to 800 sq ft are approved ministerially. Larger ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are allowed with additional standards.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai allows ADUs on single-family lots per California ADU law (Government Code 65852.2). Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are permitted. Junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft are allowed within the existing home. No owner-occupancy requirement per state law.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 800-1,200 sq ft depending on bedrooms | - |
| Setbacks | 4 feet rear and side | 4 feet rear/side |
| JADU | Up to 500 sq ft within existing home | 500 sq ft within existing home |
| Parking | None required near transit | Not required near transit/downtown |
| HOA Restrictions | Limited by CC 4751 | - |
| Max Size (Detached) | - | 1,200 sq ft |
| Height | - | 16 feet |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my Camarillo property?
Yes. California law requires cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. ADUs up to 800 sq ft are approved ministerially with a 4-foot setback. Building permits are required under CMC Title 16. Contact Community Development at (805) 388-5360 to start the process.
Can my Camarillo HOA block my ADU?
No. California Civil Code Section 4751 prohibits HOAs from effectively prohibiting or unreasonably restricting ADUs that comply with state law. Your HOA may have reasonable aesthetic standards but cannot deny an otherwise compliant ADU.
Do I need to live on the property to have an ADU?
No. California law eliminated the owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs. You may rent both the primary dwelling and the ADU. However, a JADU does require owner-occupancy of either the JADU or the primary residence.
Ojai FAQ
Can I build a granny flat in Ojai?
Yes. California law requires cities to allow ADUs. Ojai permits detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft and JADUs up to 500 sq ft within the existing home.
Do I need to live on the property?
No. California law prohibits cities from requiring owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after January 1, 2020.
How long does the permit take?
ADU permits are ministerially approved (no discretionary review). The city must act on a complete application within 60 days per state law.
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