ADU Rules: Ojai vs Thousand Oaks
How do adu rules rules compare between Ojai, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA?
Ojai and Thousand Oaks have similar restriction levels.
Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai allows ADUs on single-family lots per California ADU law (Government Code 65852.2). Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are permitted. Junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft are allowed within the existing home. No owner-occupancy requirement per state law.
View full Ojai rules →Thousand Oaks, CA
Ventura County
Thousand Oaks Ordinance 1732-NS (Nov. 22, 2024) governs ADUs. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft; 4-foot side/rear setbacks; up to 16 ft height for detached. Attached ADUs up to 50% of primary or 1,200 sq ft, up to 25 ft height. JADUs max 500 sq ft. Minimum 30-day rental per state law.
View full Thousand Oaks rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ojai | Thousand Oaks |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size (Detached) | 1,200 sq ft | - |
| JADU | 500 sq ft within existing home | Max 500 sq ft |
| Setbacks | 4 feet rear/side | 4 ft side/rear |
| Height | 16 feet | - |
| Parking | Not required near transit/downtown | - |
| Detached ADU | - | Up to 1,200 sq ft / 16 ft height |
| Min Rental | - | 30 days (CA Gov Code §65852.2) |
| Ordinance | - | Ord. 1732-NS (Nov. 22, 2024) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ojai FAQ
Can I build a granny flat in Ojai?
Yes. California law requires cities to allow ADUs. Ojai permits detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft and JADUs up to 500 sq ft within the existing home.
Do I need to live on the property?
No. California law prohibits cities from requiring owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after January 1, 2020.
How long does the permit take?
ADU permits are ministerially approved (no discretionary review). The city must act on a complete application within 60 days per state law.
Thousand Oaks FAQ
Can I build an ADU in Thousand Oaks?
Yes. California law (Gov Code 65852.2) requires cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are permitted with 4-foot side and rear setbacks. Contact Community Development at (805) 449-2100.
How long does ADU permitting take?
State law requires ministerial (no discretionary review) approval within 60 days for compliant applications. Pre-approved ADU plans may be available for faster processing. Check with Community Development.
Can I rent out my ADU?
Yes. ADUs can be rented as long-term housing. Some jurisdictions restrict ADU short-term rentals (under 30 days). JADUs (under 500 sq ft, within the primary dwelling) must be owner-occupied. Check current city regulations.
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