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πŸ—οΈ Accessory Structures/ADU Rules

Lancaster vs Santa Clarita

How do adu rules rules compare between Lancaster, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?

Lancaster and Santa Clarita have similar restriction levels.

Lancaster, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

California law (Gov. Code Β§65852.2) requires cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Lancaster must comply with state standards for size, setbacks, and parking.

View full Lancaster rules β†’

Santa Clarita, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Santa Clarita allows ADUs under state law (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881) and local regulations. One ADU plus one JADU per single-family lot. ADUs in flood zones must comply with FEMA requirements. CA HCD reviewed and provided guidance on the city's ADU ordinance in 2023.

View full Santa Clarita rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactLancasterSanta Clarita
Max Size800 sq ft detachedUp to 1,200 sq ft (detached)
Setbacks4 ft rear/side-
ParkingNone near transit-
State LawGov. Code Β§65852.2-
Allowed-1 ADU + 1 JADU per single-family lot
Owner Occupancy-Not required (state law through 2025)
Flood Zones-Must comply with FEMA requirements
HCD Review-March 2023 guidance letter

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Lancaster FAQ

Can I build an ADU?

Yes. California law requires all cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Lancaster must process permits within 60 days.

Do I need to live on the property?

No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs under current California law.

Santa Clarita FAQ

Can I build an ADU in Santa Clarita?

Yes. California law requires the city to allow ADUs. You can build one ADU plus one JADU per single-family lot, up to 1,200 sq ft for a detached ADU.

Do I have to live on the property to have an ADU?

No. California state law suspended owner occupancy requirements through at least 2025.

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