ADU Rules: Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do adu rules rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View ADU regulations follow California Government Code 65852.2 as amended by AB 68, AB 881, SB 13, and AB 1033. Ministerial approval applies to most ADUs and JADUs on single-family lots.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale allows ADUs and JADUs on single-family and multifamily lots under California Government Code 65852.2 plus AB 68, 881, and SB 13. AB 1033 now allows ADUs to be sold as separate condos.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| ADU per lot | One ADU plus JADU | - |
| Min max size | At least 1,200 sq ft | - |
| Setback | 4 ft side and rear | - |
| Height transit | Up to 18 feet | - |
| Review time | 60 days ministerial | - |
| State law | - | Gov Code 65852.2 plus AB 68, 881, SB 13 |
| Max detached ADU | - | 1200 square feet |
| JADU size | - | Up to 500 square feet |
| Setbacks | - | 4 feet side and rear |
| AB 1033 | - | Condo sale if city opts in |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Do I need to live on site to build an ADU?
No. State law currently prohibits Mountain View from imposing owner-occupancy on standard ADUs, though a JADU generally requires owner occupancy of either unit.
Can I short-term rent my ADU?
ADUs in Mountain View may not be used as short-term vacation rentals under 30 days; long-term rental is the standard allowed use.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Do I need extra parking for my Sunnyvale ADU?
No additional parking is required if your property is within a half mile of public transit, which covers most of Sunnyvale.
Can I sell my ADU as a separate condo?
Only if Sunnyvale has opted into AB 1033. Check with the Planning Division for current local policy.
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