Garage Conversions: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do garage conversions rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo and Ojai have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Garage conversions in Camarillo are primarily governed by California's ADU laws (Government Code 65852.2), which allow converting existing garages to ADUs without requiring replacement parking. CMC Title 16 requires building permits for all conversions to ensure habitability standards are met.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Garage conversions to ADUs are allowed under CA Gov Code §65852.2. No replacement parking required. Building permit required. Converted unit cannot be used for short-term rental.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Conversion | Allowed without replacement parking | - |
| Building Permit | Required for all conversions | - |
| Ceiling Height | Minimum 7 feet | - |
| Egress Windows | Required for sleeping rooms | - |
| HOA Rights | Cannot block ADU conversions (CC 4751) | - |
| Conversion Allowed | - | Yes — CA Gov Code §65852.2 |
| Replacement Parking | - | Not required |
| Permit | - | Building permit required |
| STR Restriction | - | Cannot be rented <30 days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Can I convert my garage to living space in Camarillo?
Yes. California law allows garage-to-ADU conversions without replacing the lost parking spaces. You need a building permit from Community Development at (805) 388-5360. The conversion must meet building code habitability standards.
Do I need to replace the parking spaces?
No. Under California Government Code 65852.2, no replacement parking is required when converting a garage to an ADU. This applies even if your property previously had a specific parking requirement.
Can my HOA prevent a garage conversion?
Not if it's an ADU conversion compliant with state law. California Civil Code 4751 limits HOA authority to restrict ADUs. Non-ADU conversions (gym, office) may still be subject to HOA approval and CC&R restrictions.
Ojai FAQ
Can I convert my garage to living space in Ojai?
Yes. California law allows garage conversions to ADUs or JADUs. The city cannot require replacement parking for ADU garage conversions. You need building permits for the conversion. Contact Community Development at (805) 646-5581.
What building requirements apply to garage conversions?
Converted garages must meet habitable space standards: insulation, ventilation, natural light, emergency egress windows, smoke and CO detectors, and proper electrical and plumbing. All work must be permitted and inspected.
Do I need to replace the lost parking spaces?
No. Under California ADU law, the city cannot require replacement parking when converting a garage to an ADU. This applies even in areas with permit parking or time-restricted street parking.
Compare other topics
See how Camarillo and Ojai compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool