How to Get an ADU Permit in Santa Ana
📋 Key ADU Regulations in Santa Ana
Before applying for an ADU permit, it's essential to understand the local regulations:
Zoning: ADUs are permitted in zoning districts where residential uses are allowed, such as Single-Family Residence (R1), Two-Family Residence (R2), Multiple Family Residence (R3), and Suburban Apartment (R4) .
Unit Limits:
Single-Family: Up to one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) per lot.
Multifamily: Up to eight detached ADUs and up to 25% of existing units through conversion of non-habitable space .
Size Limits:
Detached ADUs: Up to 1,000 square feet.
Attached ADUs: Up to 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary residence's floor area, whichever is less.
JADUs: Up to 500 square feet within an existing or proposed single-family residence or attached garage .
Setbacks:
Detached ADUs: Minimum of four feet from rear and side property lines.
JADUs: Must meet all development standards of the underlying zoning applicable to the primary building .
Height:
Detached ADUs: Up to 20 feet or two stories.
JADUs: Must meet all development standards of the underlying zoning applicable to the primary building .
Parking:
ADUs: One parking space is required unless the unit is within 1/2 mile of public transit, created within an existing building, in a historic district, or a studio unit .
JADUs: No parking is required .
Owner Occupancy:
ADUs: No owner occupancy requirements.
JADUs: Owner occupancy is required in either the single-family residence or the JADU, with a restrictive covenant recorded at the time of building permit issuance .
📝 How to Apply for an ADU Permit in Santa Ana
Follow these steps to apply for an ADU permit:
Determine Eligibility: Ensure your property is zoned for ADUs and meets size and setback requirements.
Choose a Plan: Select from the City of Santa Ana's pre-approved ADU plans or work with a designer to create a custom plan.
Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including site plans, elevation drawings, and utility connection details.
Submit Application: Apply through the Santa Ana Planning Division.
Pay Fees: Cover all applicable fees, including application review, permit, and development impact fees.
Schedule Inspections: Coordinate required inspections during construction.
Obtain Final Approval: Receive a Certificate of Occupancy upon successful completion.
💰 ADU Permit Costs in Santa Ana
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Cost |
| Accessory Dwelling Unit Review | Application review for ADU compliance with city codes. | $2,421.46 |
| Building Permit & Plan Check | Fees for plan review and permit issuance; varies based on construction scope. | Typically 2% of total construction costs |
| Technology & General Plan Surcharges | Additional surcharges applied to all applicable fees. | 4.5% each. |
| Processing Fee | Administrative fee added to each plan check and permit application. | $90.00 . |
| Development Impact Fees | Fees to address the impact of new development on public infrastructure. | Varies; contact Santa Ana Unified School District for current rates. |
| Utility Connection Fees | Costs for connecting water, sewer, and electricity services to the ADU. | Varies; typically between $5,000 and $20,000 . |
| Architectural & Engineering Fees | Professional fees for designing and planning the ADU. | $5,000 to $15,000 . |
✅ Benefits of Building a Permitted ADU
Building a permitted ADU in Santa Ana offers several advantages:
Legal Compliance: Avoid fines and penalties associated with unpermitted structures.
Increased Property Value: ADUs can significantly boost your property's resale value.
Access to Financing: Easier to secure loans for permitted ADUs.
Peace of Mind: Ensure safety and quality through inspections and adherence to building codes.
