Garage Conversions: Chino vs San Bernardino
How do garage conversions rules compare between Chino, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than San Bernardino.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
California Gov. Code §65852.2 (now re-codified by SB 477 at Gov. Code §66310 et seq.) preempts local bans on converting an existing garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Chino adopted a conforming ADU ordinance on March 17, 2020 (Chino Municipal Code Title 20). Garage-to-ADU conversions are permitted ministerially, replacement parking is NOT required when a garage is converted to an ADU, and approval must be issued within 60 days of a complete application.
View full Chino rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Garage conversions in San Bernardino are usually done as ADUs under CA Gov Code 65852.2, which waives replacement parking. Non-ADU conversions must meet habitable-space code and replace parking.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| State preemption | Gov. Code §65852.2 (now §66310 et seq. per SB 477) — local bans preempted | - |
| Chino ADU ordinance | Adopted March 17, 2020, CMC Title 20 | - |
| Replacement parking | NOT required when garage converts to ADU | - |
| Approval timeline | 60 days ministerial review of complete application | - |
| Owner occupancy | Not required for ADUs permitted 1/1/2020 – 1/1/2025 | - |
| ADU route | - | Garage-to-ADU conversions waive replacement parking under state law |
| Habitability | - | Must meet 7 ft ceiling, egress, smoke and CO, insulation |
| Non-ADU conversion | - | Must replace displaced parking under zoning |
| Permits required | - | Building plus electrical, plumbing, and mechanical |
| Fire zones | - | Chapter 7A may apply in VHFHSZ foothills |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can Chino deny my request to convert my garage into an ADU?
No, not categorically. State law (Gov. Code §65852.2 / SB 477 re-codification at §66310 et seq.) preempts local bans on garage-to-ADU conversions. Chino's March 17, 2020 ordinance under CMC Title 20 implements this state mandate.
Do I have to add a new driveway or parking space?
No. State law specifically exempts garage-to-ADU conversions from replacement parking requirements (Gov. Code §65852.2(a)(1)(D)(xi)).
How long does the City have to act on my application?
60 days from a complete application. ADU permits in California are ministerial — no discretionary hearing, no CEQA.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I convert my garage to a rental unit?
Yes, as an ADU under Gov Code 65852.2; the city must approve ministerially and cannot require replacement parking.
Do I have to add a new parking space if I convert the garage to a bedroom?
For non-ADU bonus-room conversions, yes. Zoning typically requires you to replace the displaced covered parking; not so for ADU conversions.
What about an illegal garage conversion done by a prior owner?
You must legalize the work first by pulling permits, disclosing the conversion, and bringing it up to current code or restoring it as a garage.
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