ADU Construction in Anaheim

Anaheim is the second-largest city in Orange County by land area, with over 350,000 residents. Known for the Disneyland Resort, Angel Stadium, and Honda Center, Anaheim has a diverse real estate market with lot sizes that are significantly larger than many neighboring cities. The city eliminated its owner-occupancy requirement in 2020, making Anaheim one of the most investor-friendly cities in Orange County for ADU construction. Its proximity to major employment centers and tourism hubs drives consistent rental demand.

Zoning & requirements

Setbacks

4-foot minimum from rear and side property lines for new detached ADUs. Conversions of existing structures are exempt from setback requirements.

Height

Up to 16 feet for single-story detached ADUs. Up to 25 feet for two-story ADUs in certain residential zones. An additional 2 feet may be permitted to accommodate roof pitch on lots with multi-family dwellings.

Parking

No additional parking required if within 0.5 miles of public transit, or if the ADU is a conversion of existing space. Otherwise, one space per ADU may be required — can be tandem or in the driveway.

Lot Size

7,000–10,000 sqft typical residential lots. No minimum lot size required by state law to build an ADU.

Owner Occupancy

No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs (eliminated 2020, made permanent by AB 976 in 2025).

Additional Notes

ADUs under 750 sqft are exempt from impact fees. The city requires a Certificate of Line and Grade before foundation inspection.

How to permit your ADU in Anaheim

Pre-application review

Schedule a meeting with the Planning Division to confirm your property qualifies. Bring your APN and a rough site plan showing the proposed ADU location.

Submit plans

Submit four printed copies of architectural plans in black and white to the Building Department. Plans must include site plan, floor plan, elevations, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing.

Plan check review

The city reviews your plans for compliance with building codes and ADU regulations. Anaheim targets 60-day turnaround for compliant ADU applications per state law.

Obtain permits & build

Once approved, pull your building permit and begin construction. Schedule required inspections — including the Certificate of Line and Grade before foundation work.

Final inspection

Request final inspection from the Building Department. Once passed, you receive your Certificate of Occupancy and your ADU is legal to occupy.

Anaheim Planning & Building Department • Fees: $5,000–$12,000 total (plan check, building permit, school fees). Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sqft. • Timeline: 4–8 weeks for plan check. 60-day maximum review required by state law.