ADU Construction in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach — "Surf City USA" — is the largest beach city in Orange County with over 200,000 residents and 9.5 miles of coastline. The city spans from beachfront neighborhoods near Pacific Coast Highway to larger inland lots in areas like Huntington Harbour, Goldenwest, and Edwards Hill. Inland lots are significantly larger (6,000–9,000+ sqft) and ideal for detached ADUs, while smaller beach-adjacent lots are better suited for garage conversions or attached units. Huntington Beach's tourism economy, beach lifestyle, and proximity to major employers create year-round rental demand. The city has additional scrutiny around parking and setbacks compared to some Orange County cities, making experienced guidance important.

Zoning & requirements

Setbacks

4-foot minimum from rear and interior side property lines for detached ADUs. Front and street-side setbacks follow the underlying zone requirements. Properties in specific plan areas (e.g., Holly-Seacliff, Bolsa Chica) may have additional setback guidelines.

Height

16 feet for single-story detached ADUs. State law allows up to 25 feet for qualifying two-story ADUs in residential zones. Check specific plan area overlays for additional height restrictions.

Parking

No additional parking required near transit. Huntington Beach has additional parking sensitivity — particularly in beach-adjacent neighborhoods where street parking is already competitive. Inland properties near OCTA routes qualify for parking exemptions.

Lot Size

6,000–9,000 sqft typical. Beachfront lots are smaller (3,000–5,000 sqft). Inland neighborhoods like Goldenwest and Edwards Hill have lots up to 10,000+ sqft.

Owner Occupancy

No owner-occupancy requirement (permanent per AB 976).

Additional Notes

Properties in specific plan areas may require additional design review. The city reviews ADU applications within the state-mandated 60-day window. Huntington Beach is known for strict enforcement of building codes and setback compliance.

How to permit your ADU in Huntington Beach

Check specific plan areas

Verify whether your property falls within a specific plan area (Holly-Seacliff, Bolsa Chica, Brightwater, etc.). These areas may have additional design guidelines that affect your ADU. Use the city's zoning map or call the Planning Division.

Pre-submission review

Visit the Permit Center for a pre-submission review. Discuss your proposed ADU location, parking plan, and any specific plan area requirements. Bring a site plan showing setbacks and existing structures.

Prepare & submit plans

Submit complete architectural and engineering plans. Huntington Beach expects high-quality submissions — incomplete plans are a common cause of delays. Include site plan, floor plans, elevations, structural, Title 24, and MEP.

Plan check (60 days)

The city processes ADU applications within the state-mandated 60-day window for compliant submissions. Quality of initial submission directly affects speed — complete, accurate plans are reviewed faster.

Pull permit & construct

Pay permit fees and begin construction. Huntington Beach inspectors are thorough — ensure your contractor is experienced with the city's inspection requirements. Schedule inspections promptly.

Final inspection & occupancy

Pass all required inspections and receive your Certificate of Occupancy. Beach-adjacent ADUs can command premium rents, especially during summer months.

Huntington Beach Community Development Department — Permit Center • Fees: $5,000–$14,000 total (plan check, building permit, school fees). Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sqft. Specific plan area review may add fees. • Timeline: 4–8 weeks for plan check. 60-day maximum per state law. Specific plan areas may add 2–4 weeks.