5 rules for unincorporated Calaveras County, California.
Verified from official government sources
In unincorporated Calaveras County, ADUs are governed by Zoning Code Section 17.25.040 (2024 update), which implements California Government Code Section 65852.2. On a single-unit lot you may add one ADU (up to 1,200 sq ft) plus one junior ADU (up to 500 sq ft). ADUs are approved ministerially through the building-permit process within 60 days, with no parking required.
Sheds in unincorporated Calaveras County are treated as detached accessory structures under Zoning Code Section 17.16.030 and must meet the development standards of the underlying zone. Living quarters in sheds are prohibited. One shed under 120 sq ft and under 12 feet tall that needs no building permit may sit within required interior side and rear setbacks per Section 17.16.080.A.1.j.
Converting a garage to living space in unincorporated Calaveras County is handled through the ADU rules in Zoning Code Section 17.25.040. A legal existing garage converted to an ADU requires no additional setback, and replacement parking is not required when covered parking is converted. Conversions must meet building, fire and septic standards under Title 15.
Carports in unincorporated Calaveras County are detached accessory structures under Zoning Code Section 17.16.030 and must meet the development standards of the underlying zone. They may not be used as living quarters. When a carport or covered parking is demolished or converted to create an ADU, replacement parking may be reconfigured anywhere on the lot.
Calaveras County does not allow movable tiny homes on wheels, RVs or trailers as permanent ADUs; ADUs must be permanent structures meeting Title 15 building codes. A mobile home, RV or travel trailer may serve as a temporary residence while a permanent home is built (Sec. 17.25.220.A.3), and disaster-displaced owners may use temporary housing under Sec. 17.23.040.
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