ADU Rules: Chino vs Fontana
How do adu rules rules compare between Chino, CA and Fontana, CA?
Fontana has fewer restrictions than Chino.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Chino regulates Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs) under Chino Municipal Code Chapter 20.11 (Accessory Structures), implementing California Gov. Code §65852.2 and §65852.22. One ADU and one JADU are allowed per single-family lot; JADUs must be entirely within the existing single-family residence footprint or attached garage and capped at 500 sq ft. State law preempts the city on ministerial approval, size minimums, and parking exemptions within 1/2 mile of transit.
View full Chino rules →Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana permits ADUs and JADUs under California Gov Code 65852.2. Ministerial approval within 60 days, no replacement parking for garage conversions, and detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft.
View full Fontana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| Local code | CMC Chapter 20.11 (Accessory Structures) | - |
| State law | Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2 (ADU) / §65852.22 (JADU) | - |
| Units per lot | 1 ADU + 1 JADU on SFR lots | - |
| JADU max size | 500 sq ft (within existing footprint) | - |
| Detached ADU max | 1,200 sq ft (state cap) | - |
| Approval timeline | 60 days ministerial (state) | 60 days ministerial per GC 65852.2 |
| Planning Division | 909-334-3253 / planning@cityofchino.org | - |
| Max detached ADU | - | 1,200 sq ft or 1,000 sq ft by bedroom count |
| Parking rule | - | No added parking, no replacement for converted garage |
| Setbacks | - | 4 feet side and rear for new detached ADU |
| Impact fees | - | Waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can I have both an ADU and a JADU on my Chino lot?
Yes. Per Chino's ADU page and CMC Ch. 20.11, single-family lots may have one ADU and one JADU concurrently.
Does Chino have pre-approved ADU plans?
Yes - studio through 3-bedroom pre-approved plans are available at ca-chino.civicplus.com/622/ADU-Plans to streamline permitting.
Can the city deny my ADU?
Generally no, if it complies with state minimums. Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2 requires ministerial (non-discretionary) approval within 60 days for compliant applications.
Fontana FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my Fontana single-family lot?
Yes. State law and Fontana Municipal Code allow one ADU plus one JADU on every single-family lot, subject to size, setback, and height limits.
Do I lose my garage parking if I convert it to an ADU?
You can convert the garage without providing replacement parking under state ADU law - the city cannot require a new covered space.
How long does ADU approval take in Fontana?
Complete applications must receive a ministerial decision within 60 days under Government Code 65852.2.
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