Growing rental demand driven by Cal State Fullerton proximity, top-rated Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified schools attracting families, historic downtown revitalization increasing neighborhood appeal, and practical lot sizes with a straightforward city permitting process.
Placentia — branded as "A Pleasant Place to Live" — is a well-established city of approximately 52,000 residents in north-central Orange County. The city features a mix of mid-century neighborhoods with mature tree canopy and newer developments, all served by the highly rated Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District. Placentia's historic downtown along Santa Fe Avenue is undergoing a revitalization that includes new dining, retail, and mixed-use development, bringing renewed energy to the city center. The proximity to Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) — located just across the border in Fullerton — creates consistent demand for rental housing from students, faculty, and university staff. Residential lots typically range from 5,000 to 7,000 sqft, providing practical space for ADU construction. The city's central north OC location offers convenient access to the 57 and 91 freeways.
Confirm your property's zoning designation and lot dimensions on the city's zoning map. Most single-family residential zones in Placentia allow ADUs by right. Check for any easements, utility locations, or planned infrastructure improvements in your area.
Create architectural plans including site plan, floor plan, elevations, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Placentia's established neighborhoods feature a mix of ranch-style and mid-century homes — design your ADU to complement the existing streetscape. Include Title 24 energy compliance.
Submit your complete plan set to the Community Development Department. Include Title 24 documentation and any required soils reports. Pay plan check fees at submission.
The city reviews plans for compliance with building codes and ADU regulations. State law mandates a 60-day maximum review period for compliant ADU applications.
Once permitted, begin construction with your licensed contractor. Schedule required inspections at each milestone — foundation, framing, rough MEP, insulation, and final.
Request final inspection from the Building Division. Once passed, receive your Certificate of Occupancy. Your ADU is now legal to rent or occupy — and Placentia's rental market is ready for new inventory.