| Table of Contents |
| 1. What Is an ADU? |
2. ADU Types and Size Limits in Irvine |
| 3. Irvine ADU Regulations |
| 4. Ownership and Zoning Requirements |
| 5. Parking Requirements |
| 6. Permitting and Approval Process |
| 7. Safety and Utility Standards |
| 8. FAQ |
What Is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home. These units include essential living spaces such as a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, offering flexibility for various uses:
Rental Income: Generate steady cash flow by renting out the ADU.
Guest Accommodations: Provide a private space for visiting friends or family.
Multi-Generational Living: Offer independent living quarters for elderly parents or adult children.
In Irvine, ADUs can be detached, attached, or converted from existing structures like garages or basements.
ADU Types and Size Limits in Irvine
Irvine permits various types of ADUs, each with specific size limitations:
Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 square feet.
Attached ADUs: Limited to 50% of the primary home's size or 1,200 square feet, whichever is less.
Junior ADUs (JADUs): Maximum of 500 square feet.
These size limits apply regardless of the underlying zoning standards of the property.
Irvine ADU Regulations
Understanding local regulations is crucial when considering renting or building an ADU in Irvine:
Size Limits: Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq. ft.; attached units must not exceed 50% of the primary home's size.
Parking Requirements: Additional parking is not required if the ADU is within half a mile of public transportation or part of a garage conversion.
Owner Occupancy: The property owner must reside in either the primary or accessory unit.
Rental Terms: ADUs cannot be used for short-term rentals; lease agreements must be for 30 days or more.
Ownership and Zoning Requirements
Ownership: As of January 1, 2020, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs built between 2020 and 2025.
Zoning: ADUs are permitted in all residential zones and mixed-use zones that allow residential uses.
Number of ADUs Allowed:
Single-Family Zones: One ADU and one JADU per property.
Multi-Family Zones: Up to two detached ADUs or conversions of up to 25% of existing non-living spaces into ADUs.
Parking Requirements
Detached and Attached ADUs: Generally, one additional parking space is required.
Exemptions: No additional parking is required if the ADU is within half a mile of public transportation or if it's a garage conversion.
Permitting and Approval Process
To construct an ADU in Irvine, homeowners must submit the following:
ADU Permit Application: Includes building plans, calculations, and construction documents.
ADU Verification Form: Available from the Planning Team.
Development Standards Checklist: For site plan compliance.
Hold Harmless Affidavit and Covenant: Documents to be notarized and recorded.
School Fee Determination Form: Included in the ADU Permit Application package.
Transportation Corridor Agency Form: Also included in the ADU Permit Application package.
Address Application: Included in the ADU Permit Application package.
The City of Irvine offers a Pre-Approved ADU Plans Program, similar to programs in other California cities like Chula Vista, providing a range of pre-approved plans to accommodate different site conditions. These plans have already been reviewed and approved by the City, streamlining the approval process.
Safety and Utility Standards
Fire Safety: ADUs must have unobstructed pathways for emergency services, with clear access routes to every entrance and exit. Installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in each room is mandated.
Utility Connections: ADUs should have separate utility connections (water, gas, electricity, and sewer) from the primary residence, with distinct shut-off valves for safety and maintenance purposes.
