Special zoning rules apply to ADU construction in Santa Clarita. ADUs are allowed in every residential area according to our city rules. ADUs can be made in single family and multi-family homes in residential areas. According to the rules, ADU can be constructed with the main house or separately. The zoning regulations in Santa Clarita ensure that the ADU maintains the character of the neighborhood.
Lot Size Table
| Lot Size | Single-family (maximum floor area) | Duplex and Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area) |
| 6,000 | 1,400 sq ft | 900 sq ft |
| 8,500 | 1,700 sq ft | 1,100 sq ft |
| 11,000 | 2,000 sq ft | 1,300 sq ft |
| 16,000 | 2,600 sq ft | 1,800 sq ft |
| 21,000 | 3,200 sq ft | 2,200 sq ft |
The maximum height of an ADU in Santa Clarita is determined by clear rules. The height of the ADU should be less than the height of the main building. Separately made ADUs can have a maximum height of up to sixteen feet. The height of the ADU attached to the main building can be kept up to twenty-five feet. Our team will help you follow the rules of height.
Building coverage regulations in Santa Clarita govern the size of the DU. Only a maximum of forty percent of the total area of the plot can be used for the building. This rule covers both the main building and the ADU. This rule is very important to maintain open spaces.
When choosing the location of an ADU it is necessary to follow several important rules. ADUs can be constructed behind or next to the main building. ADU is not allowed on the front. The location should be selected keeping in mind the privacy of the neighbor.
Single-Family Homes:
Duplexes and Multi-family:
The exterior design of the ADU in Santa Clarita should resemble the main building. The design of the ceiling, styling of windows and the colour of the exterior walls should match the main building. Our team creates designs that enhance the beauty of your home. The exterior of the ADU should have good lighting.
According to Santa Clarita rules, a parking space is mandatory for every ADU. Parking space can be covered or uncovered. Parking can be allowed in ADU near public transport. The size of the parking space should be at least nine feet wide and twenty feet long.
Setback rules ensure proper distance between ADUs and neighboring properties. A setback of at least five feet at the back is required. The side setback should be four feet. ADU cannot be formed in the front setback. Trees and plants can be planted in the buffer zone.
| zone | Minimum Lot Area |
| R-22 | 5,500 sq. ft. |
| R-12 | 8,000 sq. ft. |
| R-8 | 11,500 sq. ft. |
| R-6 | 16,500 sq. ft. |
| R-3 | 21,500 sq. ft. |
Proper connection of electricity, water and sewer is very essential for ADU. Our team arranges meters separately from the main building. According to the rules of Santa Clarita, all connections must be free. The electrical wiring and plumbing work is done by experienced craftsmen. New connections require special permits.
It is necessary to follow special technical standards for utility connections. Our team first inspects the site. This shows which connections can be taken from where. The proper pressure for the water pipeline is checked. It is very important to have the right slope of the sewer line.
Santa Clarita has strict fire safety rules for DUs. Every ADU must have a smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm. There should be a provision for emergency exit. Installation of a fire sprinkler system is mandatory. ADU windows should be large enough for emergency evacuation.
Santa Clarita has some restrictions on using ADUs for short-term rentals. Cannot be rented for a period of less than thirty days. ADU can be used for home occupation. Business should not cause any trouble in the neighborhood. It is important to follow the rules of parking and noise.
Santa Clarita’s building codes ensure the quality of construction of the DU. These regulations cover building materials, structural safety and energy efficiency. Our team follows all codes. Building inspectors periodically check. It is very important to follow the safety standard.
The process of obtaining an ADU permit in Santa Clarita is very systematic. Our team helps you prepare all the necessary documents. The permit is issued after the review of the plan. It is necessary to obtain all permits before starting construction. We provide you with guidance throughout the process.
| Permit Type | cost |
| Building Permits | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Electrical Permit | $300 – $600 |
| Plumbing Permit | $250 – $450 |
| Mechanical Permit | $200 – $400 |
| Demolition Permit | $150 – $250 |
| Landscaping Permit | $75 – $150 |
The property must meet some basic criteria to form an ADU in Santa Clarita. The plot size should be larger than the minimum requirements. The slope of the ground should be less than fifteen percent. The availability of electricity and water on the property is essential. There should be direct access by road.
The Santa Clarita regulations require the provision of additional parking spaces for ADUs. The size of the parking lot should be at least nine feet wide and twenty feet long. New parking will have to be built when the garage is converted into an UD. ADU near public transit can be discounted.
The rules of setback at the front are very important. A distance of at least twenty feet from the main road is required. The entrance to the ADU should not be towards the road. It is necessary to do landscaping in the front part. Parking is not allowed in the setback area.
The side setback should be at least four feet. A setback of five feet at the back is a must. Additional setback rules apply to corner lots. Space will have to be left in the setback for the utility connection. The privacy of the neighbor is taken care of.
There are special rules for open space and the back courtyard. It is necessary to keep thirty percent of the total plot area open. The back courtyard should have at least three hundred square feet of space. Space is left for children to play and garden. Open space is essential for natural light.
All residential areas in Santa Clarita are allowed to form ADUs. ADUs can be constructed in single-family and multi-family homes. The plot size should be larger than the minimum requirements. It is important to follow building coverage and setback rules. The availability of utility connections is important.
The condition of the building should be good and meet all safety standards. Special rules apply to properties located in flood zones. Additional approval is required for ADU in historic buildings. Proper parking arrangements are necessary. There should be direct access by road.
Multifamily properties
The size of the junior ADU in Santa Clarita is limited to five hundred square feet. The Junior ADU is built inside the main house itself. The kitchen is small and the bathroom can be shared. The main entrance should be separate. Additional parking is not required for junior ADUs.
Some special ADU designs are already approved in Santa Clarita. Selecting these designs speeds up the permit process. The pre-approved ADU includes all the necessary features. Their construction is already ensured as per the rules. Our team provides you with detailed information about these designs.
We can make small changes to the pre-approved design according to your need. The construction of these ADUs is completed in a short time. You can choose the design according to your choice and budget. Pre-approved ADUs have options available from one bedroom to two bedrooms. Modern features have been taken care of in all the designs.
ADU Builders CA is ready to make the ADU of your dreams come true. Our expert team has complete experience of ADU manufacturing in Santa Clarita. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will inspect your property and suggest the most suitable ADU design. Our team keeps full knowledge of all the rules and permits.
Fire sprinklers are only required if the primary dwelling also has them.
ADUs typically require a minimum setback of 4 feet from property lines.
Separate utility connections are optional but not mandatory for most ADUs.
The checklist includes design review, site plans, structural plans, permits, and financing.
You need site plans, floor plans, construction details, and a permit application.
Inspections typically include foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and final review.
Work with licensed professionals to design and construct your ADU to code.
You may need to revise and resubmit plans to the Santa Clarita planning office.
Submit complete and accurate documents and work with professionals to avoid delays.
ADUs under 750 sq. ft. are exempt from impact fees.
Yes, it includes checking structure, utilities, and obtaining conversion permits.
Yes, ADUs must meet height, size, and setback requirements, and their design should complement the primary dwelling.
Yes, but you need to ensure the ADU fits within allowable lot coverage and setback rules.
ADUs must comply with California Building Codes, including foundation, framing, insulation, plumbing, and electrical requirements.
Yes, ADUs must comply with California Energy Code (Title 24) and include energy-efficient windows, insulation, and appliances.
You must submit a revised plan to the Santa Clarita Building Department and may incur additional fees or inspections.
Yes, ADUs near high-noise areas (e.g., busy roads) must include soundproofing measures such as double-glazed windows.
Yes, you can appeal to the city’s Planning Commission or seek adjustments to meet requirements.
Lot coverage varies by zoning but generally allows for up to 50% of the lot to be developed, including the primary dwelling and ADU.
