FAQ Topic: Planning main page accordion

Step 5. Begin Construction

Once you have been issued your permits, you can begin construction and call (714) 667-2738 to schedule inspections.

Once all City departments have reviewed and approved your application submittal, you will be required to pay all permit, inspection, capacity and/or impact fees. Please note School District development impact fees will need to be paid offsite at respective School District offices. When you have paid all required fees and presented City staff with City … Continued

Step 3. Application Submittal

To submit your Pre-Approved ADU application please contact your assigned case planner (if you elected to schedule a pre-submittal consultation) or contact the Planning Division at planning@santa-ana.org to schedule a submittal meeting. Please note that all projects utilizing the Pre-Approved ADU Plans may only be submitted over-the-counter with paper copies of all documents. During your … Continued

Step 2. Before You Submit

While Pre-Approved ADU Plans have already been reviewed by City staff, navigating the permit, plan check, and development process can be complex. To better assist you through this process, it is highly advised that you contact City staff for a pre-submittal consultation. Email us at planning@santa-ana.org to schedule your pre-submittal consultation. To make your consultation … Continued

Can I sell or rent my ADU?

ADUs may be rented separately from the primary residence, but shall not be used as a short-term vacation rental. An ADU may only be sold separately from the primary building on the lot if the primary building and the ADU were built or developed by a qualified non-profit corporation in accordance with Government Code Section … Continued

How large does my property have to be to build an ADU?

There is no minimum lot size requirement to develop an ADU as long as the proposed unit complies with all applicable standards.

Can I build a two story ADU?

Attached ADUs may be built up to the same height permitted in the underlying zoning district for the primary building. Detached ADUs may be built up to two stories not exceeding 20 feet in height. Conversion of an existing accessory structure or a portion of the existing primary residence to an ADU is not subject … Continued

Step 1. Determine Eligibility

To utilize Santa Ana’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans, your property must meet the following requirements: Project site is developed or proposed to be developed with a single-family dwelling unit Not located in a flood zone (Zone A or AE) Not located in a historic district (French Park (SD-19), Downtown Historic District, and Floral Park) Not located … Continued

What fees do I have to pay to build an ADU?

Application review, permit, and development impact fees apply to your ADU development project. Contact respective agency and departments for current fees.

Where do I start if I want to consider building an ADU?

Examine the information provided for ADUs here.