Chapter 17.74 — ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS

Capitola Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · ingested 2026-07-07 · Capitola

Sections:

17.74.010 Purpose
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.010 Purpose
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.020 Definitions
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.020 Definitions
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.030 Permitting process
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.030 Permitting process
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.040 General requirements
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.040 General requirements
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.050 Units subject to limited standards
(effective within coastal
zone)
.
17.74.050 Units subject to limited standards
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.060 Units subject to full review standards
(effective within
coastal zone)
.
17.74.060 Units subject to full review standards
(effective outside
coastal zone)
.
17.74.070 Units requiring a design permit
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.070 Units requiring a design permit
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.080 Development standards
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.080 Development standards
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.090 Objective design standards
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.090 Objective design standards
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.100 Deviation from standards.
17.74.110 Findings
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.110 Findings
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.120 Deed restrictions
(effective within coastal zone)
.
17.74.120 Deed restrictions
(effective outside coastal zone)
.
17.74.130 Incentives.

17.74.010 Purpose (effective within coastal zone).

A. This chapter establishes standards for the location and construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) consistent with Government Code Sections 65852.2 through 65852.22. These standards are intended to allow accessory dwelling units as a form of affordable housing in Capitola while maintaining the character and quality of life of residential neighborhoods.

B. It is the city’s intent for this chapter to be consistent with state law as it is amended from time to time. In case of conflict between this chapter and state law, state law governs unless local variation is permitted. (Ord. 1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.010 Purpose (effective outside coastal zone).

A. This chapter establishes standards for the location and construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) consistent with Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342. These standards are intended to allow accessory dwelling units as a form of affordable housing in Capitola while maintaining the character and quality of life of residential neighborhoods.

B. It is the city’s intent for this chapter to be consistent with state law as it is amended from time to time. In case of conflict between this chapter and state law, state law governs unless local variation is permitted. (Ord. 1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord. 1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.020 Definitions (effective within coastal zone).

Terms used in this chapter are defined as follows:

A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means a self-contained living unit located on the same
parcel as a primary
dwelling unit.
B. “Attached accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that:
1. Shares at least one common
wall with the primary
dwelling unit;and
2. Is not fully contained within the existing space of the primary
dwelling unit.
C. “Detached accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that does not share a common
wall with the primary
D. “Internal accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that is fully contained within the existing space of the
E. “Junior accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit no more than five hundred square feet in size and cont
attached
garages and other enclosed uses within the residence are considered a part of a single-family residence.
F. “Two-story attached accessory dwelling unit” means an attached
accessory dwelling unit that is configured as either:
1. Two stories of living space attached to an existing primary
dwelling unit;or
2. Second-story living space above a ground-floor
garage or living space in an existing primary
dwelling unit.
G. “Two-story detached accessory dwelling unit” means a detached
accessory dwelling unit that is configured as either:
1. Two stories of living space in a single
accessory dwelling unit;or
2. Second-story living space above a ground-floor
garage or other
accessory structure.(Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
104

dwelling unit and is not an internal
accessory dwelling unit.
primary
dwelling unit or an
accessory structure.
ained entirely within a single-family residence. For purposes of this definition,
3 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.020 Definitions (effective outside coastal zone).

Terms used in this chapter are defined as follows. If a definition below conflicts with a definition in Chapter 17.160 (Glossary), the definition below controls.

A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
existing primary residence. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same
parcel as the single-family or
multifamily dwelling is
or will be situated. An
accessory dwelling unit also includes an efficiency unit and a manufactured home, as defined in Section
18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
B. “Attached accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that:
1. Shares at least one common
wall with the primary
dwelling unit;and
2. Is not fully contained within the existing space of the primary
dwelling unit.
C. “Detached accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that does not share a common
wall with the primary
dwelling unit and is not an internal
accessory dwelling unit.
D. “Internal accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit that is fully contained within the existing space of the primary
dwelling unit or an
accessory structure.
E. “Junior accessory dwelling unit” means an
accessory dwelling unit no more than five hundred square feet in size and contained entirely within a single-family residence. For purposes of this definition,
attached
garages and other enclosed uses within the residence are considered a part of a single-family residence.
F. “Multifamily dwelling” means a
structure on a single
lot with two or more attached
dwelling units.
G. “Two-story attached accessory dwelling unit” means an attached
accessory dwelling unit that is configured as either:
1. Two stories of living space attached to an existing primary
dwelling unit;or
2. Second-story living space above a ground-floor
garage or living space in an existing primary
dwelling unit.
H. “Two-story detached accessory dwelling unit” means a detached
accessory dwelling unit that is configured as either:
1. Two stories of living space in a single
accessory dwelling unit;or
2. Second-story living space above a ground-floor
garage or other
accessory structure.(Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord.
1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.030 Permitting process (effective within coastal zone).
A. When Consistent with Standards.
1. Except when a design permit is specifically required by this chapter, an
accessory dwelling unit that complies with all standards in this chapter shall be approved ministerially
with an administrative permit.
No discretionary review or public hearing is required. A
building permit application may be submitted concurrently with the administrative permit application.
2. If an existing single-family or
multifamily dwelling exists on the
parcel upon which an
accessory dwelling unit is proposed, the city shall either approve or deny an application
to create an
accessory
dwelling unit within sixty days from the date the city receives a completed application. If the
applicant requests a delay in writing, the sixty-day time period shall be tolled for the period of the delay.
3. If the city denies an application for an
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall return in writing a full set of comments to the
applicant with a list of items that are defective or deficient and a description of
how the application can be remedied by the
applicant.
4. If the
accessory dwelling unit application is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family or
multifamily dwelling on the
parcel,the city may delay approving or
denying the
accessory
dwelling unit application until the city approves or denies the permit application for the new
single-family dwelling.The
accessory dwelling unit shall be considered without discretionary review or hearing.
5. A demolition permit for a detached
garage that is to be replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit shall be reviewed with the application for the
accessory dwelling unit and issued at the same time.
B. Two-Story Units. A two-story
accessory dwelling unit (attached or detached) greater than sixteen feet in
height requires planning commission approval of a design permit. To
approve the design permit, the
planning commission must make the findings in Section
17.74.110.A two-story
accessory dwelling unit must comply with the standards in Sections
17.74.080 (Development standards) and
17.74.090
(Objective design standards) unless the planning commission allows a deviation through the design permit process.
C. When Deviating from Standards. An accessory unit that deviates from any standard in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) or
17.74.090 (Objective design standards)
may be allowed with planning
commission approval of a design permit. See Section
17.74.100 (Deviation from standards).
D. When Dependent on Separate Construction. When a proposed attached or detached
accessory dwelling unit is dependent on the construction of a new
building or new portion of a
building which is not a
part of the
accessory dwelling unit (“separate construction”) and is not proposed as part of a permit application to create a new
single-family dwelling on the
parcel,the city shall either:
1. Accept and begin processing the
accessory dwelling unit application only after acting on an application for the proposed separate construction; or
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
2. Upon written request from the
applicant,review and act on the
accessory dwelling unit together with the separate construction as part of a single application. In this case, the

accessory dwelling unit is
subject to the same review procedures as the separate construction.
E. Within
Coastal Zone.
1. A proposed
accessory dwelling unit that is located in the
coastal zone may require a coastal
development permit (CDP) as specified by Chapter
17.44 (Coastal Overlay Zone) and the
findings for approval of
a CDP as specified in Section
17.44.130 (Findings for approval).
2. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to supersede or in any way alter or lessen the effect of application of the California Coastal Act of 1976 (Division 20, commencing with Section
30000,of the
Public Resources Code), except that a public hearing for a CDP application for an
accessory dwelling unit shall not be required.
F.
Historic Resources.
1. If a design permit is required for an
accessory dwelling unit on a property with a
historic resource,the proposed project is subject to the requirements in Chapter
17.84 (Historic Preservation). Third-party
review of the proposed project may be required as provided in Chapter
17.84.
2. Compliance with Chapter
17.84 is not required for
accessory dwelling units approved ministerially with an administrative permit.
G. Correction of Violations. The city shall not deny an application for a permit to create an
accessory dwelling unit due to the correction of nonconforming zoning conditions,
building
code violations, or
unpermitted
structures that do not present a threat to public health and safety and are not affected by the construction of the
accessory dwelling unit.
H. Unpermitted
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. Except as provided in subsection (H)(2) of this section, the city shall not deny a permit for an unpermitted
accessory dwelling unit that was constructed before January 1, 2018, due
to either of the
following:
a. The
accessory dwelling unit is in violation of
building standards pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section
17960)of Chapter 5 of Part 1.5 of Division 13 of the Health and Safety Code.
b. The
accessory dwelling unit does not comply with Government Code Section
65852.2 or this chapter.
2. The city may deny a permit for an unpermitted
accessory dwelling unit that was constructed before January 1, 2018, if the local agency makes a finding that correcting the violation
is necessary to protect
the health and safety of the public or occupants of the
structure.
3. This subsection shall not apply to a
building that is deemed substandard pursuant to Section
17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code. (Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1043 §
2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.030 Permitting process (effective outside coastal zone).
A. When Consistent with Standards.
1. Except when a design permit is specifically required by this chapter, an
accessory dwelling unit that complies with all standards in this chapter shall be approved ministerially
with an administrative permit.
No discretionary review or public hearing is required. A
building permit application may be submitted concurrently with the administrative permit application.
2. If an existing single-family or
multifamily dwelling exists on the
parcel upon which an
accessory dwelling unit is proposed, the city shall either approve or deny an application
to create an
accessory
dwelling unit within sixty days from the date the city receives a completed application. If the
applicant requests a delay in writing, the sixty-day time period shall be tolled for the period of the delay.
3. If the city denies an application for an
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall return in writing a full set of comments to the
applicant with a list of items that are defective or
3. If the city denies an application for an
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall return in writing a full set of comments to the
applicant with a list of items that are defective or
3. If the city denies an application for an
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall return in writing a full set of comments to the
applicant with a list of items that are defective or
3. If the city denies an application for an
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall return in writing a full set of comments to the
applicant with a list of items that are defective or
--- --- --- ---
how the application can be remedied by the
applicant.
4. If the
accessory dwelling unit application is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family or
multifamily dwelling on the
parcel,the city may
delay approving or denying the
dwelling unit application until the city approves or denies the permit application for the new single-family or
multifamily dwelling.The
accessory dwelling unit
shall be considered without
review or hearing.
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
5. A demolition permit for a detached
garage that is to be replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit shall be reviewed with the application for the
accessory dwelling
unit and issued at the same time.
B. Two-Story Units.
1. Planning commission approval of a design permit is required for a two-story
accessory dwelling unit (attached or detached) with a
height greater than the maximum permitted one-story
unit heights in Table 17.74-1.
2. To approve the design permit, the planning commission must make the findings in Section
17.74.110.A two-story
accessory dwelling unit must comply with the standards in Sections
(Development standards) and
17.74.090 (Objective design standards) unless the planning commission allows a deviation through the design permit process.
C. When Deviating from Standards. An accessory unit that deviates from any standard in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) or
17.74.090 (Objective design standards)
commission approval of a design permit. See Section
17.74.100 (Deviation from standards).
D. When Dependent on Separate Construction. When a proposed attached or detached
accessory dwelling unit is dependent on the construction of a new
building or new portion of a
building which is
part of the
accessory dwelling unit (“separate construction”) and is not proposed as part of a permit application to create a new
single-family dwelling on the

parcel,the city shall either:
1. Accept and begin processing the
accessory dwelling unit application only after acting on an application for the proposed separate construction; or
2. Upon written request from the
applicant,review and act on the
accessory dwelling unit together with the separate construction as part of a single application. In
this case, the
subject to the same review procedures as the separate construction.
E. Within
Coastal Zone.
1. A proposed
accessory dwelling unit that is located in the
coastal zone may require a coastal
development permit (CDP) as specified by Chapter
17.44 (Coastal
Overlay Zone) and the findings for
a CDP as specified in Section
17.44.130 (Findings for approval).
2. The city may issue a CDP waiver pursuant to Section
17.44.090 (De minimis waiver of CDP) for a proposed
accessory dwelling unit in the
coastal zone.The city may issue a
dwelling unit both within and outside of locations where city decisions are appealable to the Coastal Commission. To be eligible for a CDP waiver, the proposed
accessory dwelling unit must comply with all of
the following:
a. The
accessory dwelling unit complies with all standards in this chapter and may be approved with no public hearing required.
b. The accessory dwelling is not located:
i. In an area subject to coastal hazards as defined by Section
17.44.030(F);
ii. Within two hundred feet of a
cliff edge; or
iii. In an environmentally sensitive habitat area (ESHA) as defined by Section
17.44.030(J), including categorical ESHA areas identified in Section
17.64.020
(Applicability).
c. The
accessory dwelling unit would not negatively impact coastal resources, public access, or views consistent with the city’s certified
local coastal program.
3. A CDP waiver for an
accessory dwelling unit shall comply with all requirements in Section
17.44.090 that apply to other types of
development with the exception
that the city may issue a CDP waiver for an
accessory dwelling unit both within and outside of locations where city decisions are appealable to the Coastal Commission.
4. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to supersede or in any way alter or lessen the effect of application of the California Coastal Act of 1976 (Division 20, commencing with Section
Public Resources Code), except that:
a. A public hearing for a CDP application for an
accessory dwelling unit is not required as provided in subsection (A)(1) of this section; and
b. The city may issue a CDP waiver for an
accessory dwelling unit as provided in subsection (E)(2) of this section.
F.
Historic Resources.
1. A proposed
accessory dwelling unit is subject to the requirements in Chapter
17.84 (Historic Preservation) if all of the following apply:
a. The property is in the
coastal zone;
b. The
accessory dwelling unit requires a design permit; and
c. The property contains a
designated historic resource or
potential historic resource as defined in Section
17.84.020 (Types of historic resources).
2. Compliance with Chapter
17.84 is not required for
accessory dwelling unit applications that do not meet all criteria in subsection (F)(1) of this section.
G. Correction of Violations. The city shall not deny an application for a permit to create an
accessory dwelling unit due to the correction of nonconforming zoning conditions,
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
unpermitted
structures that do not present a threat to public health and safety and are not affected by the construction of the
accessory dwelling unit.
H. Unpermitted
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. Except as provided in subsection (H)(2) of this section, the city shall not deny a permit for an unpermitted
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit that was constructed
2020, due to either of the following:
a. The
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit is in violation of
building standards pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section
17960)of Chapter 5 of
and Safety Code.
b. The
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit does not comply with Government Code Sections
66314 through
66332 or this chapter.
2. The city may deny a permit for an unpermitted
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the city makes a
is necessary to comply with the standards specified in Section
17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code.
3. This subsection shall not apply to a
building that is deemed substandard pursuant to Section
17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code. (Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A),
2025; Ord.
§ 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.040 General requirements (effective within coastal zone).
The following requirements apply to all
accessory dwelling units:
A. Where Allowed. An
accessory dwelling unit is permitted:
1. In any zoning district where single-family or
multifamily dwellings are a permitted use; and
2. On any
parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or
multifamily dwelling.
B. Maximum Number per
Parcel.Not more than one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed per
parcel except as allowed by Sections
17.74.050(B) (One-Story Detached

Accessory
Square Feet or Less),
17.74.050(C) (Nonlivable Multifamily Space), and
17.74.050(D) (Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units on Multifamily Parcels).
C.
Residential Mixed Use.If one
dwelling unit is on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling unit is considered a
single-family dwelling for the purpose of determining
this chapter. If two or more
dwelling units are on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling units are considered a
multifamily dwelling.
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if they would not be required for the primary residence under the current fire code. Establishing an
accessory
dwelling unit does not require installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary).
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling.
H. Guaranteed Allowance. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,and
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up
to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,up to sixteen feet in
height,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other applicable standards. The
guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
setbacks.
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as the demolished
structure.
3. If any portion of an existing
structure crosses a property line, the
structure may not be converted to or replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit.For an existing
structure within four feet of a property line,
the
applicant must submit a survey demonstrating that the
structure does not cross the property line.
J. Manufactured Homes and Mobile Units.
1. A manufactured home, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,as may be
amended from time to time, a manufactured home must:
a. Provide a minimum of three hundred twenty square feet of
floor area;
b. Be built on a permanent chassis;
c. Be designed for use as a
single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities; and
d. Include the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained within the home.
2. Vehicles and trailers, with or without wheels, which do not meet the definition of a manufactured home, are prohibited as
accessory dwelling units.
3. A prefabricated or modular home is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.
K. Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. General. Junior
accessory dwelling units shall comply with all standards in this chapter unless otherwise indicated.
2. Occupancy. The property owner must occupy either the primary
dwelling unit or the junior
accessory dwelling unit on the property.
3. Sanitation Facilities.
a. A junior
accessory dwelling unit may include sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the primary dwelling.
b. If a junior
accessory dwelling unit does not include a separate bathroom, the junior
accessory dwelling unit shall include a separate entrance from the main entrance to the
structure,with an interior entry
to the main living area.
4.
Kitchen.A junior
accessory dwelling unit must include, at a minimum:
a. A cooking facility with appliances; and
b. At least three linear feet of
food preparation counter space and three linear feet of cabinet space.
L. Multifamily Homeowners Associations. If a
multifamily dwelling is located in a
development with a homeowners’ association (HOA), an application for an
accessory dwelling unit must:
1. Be signed by an authorized officer of the HOA; and
2. Include a written statement from the HOA stating that the application is authorized by the HOA, if such authorization is required.
M. Pursuant to the authority provided by Section
65852.21(f) of the Government Code, no
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on any
lot in a single-family zoning
district if: (1) an urban
lot split has been approved pursuant to Chapter
16.78 of this code; and (2) an SB 9 residential
development with two units has been approved for construction pursuant to Chapter
17.75 of this code. (Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1052 § 4, 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.040 General requirements (effective outside coastal zone).
The following requirements apply to all
accessory dwelling units:
A. Where Allowed. An
accessory dwelling unit is permitted:
1. In any zoning district where single-family or
multifamily dwellings are a permitted use; and
2. On any
parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or
multifamily dwelling.
B. Maximum Number per
Parcel.Not more than one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed per
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
parcel except as allowed by Section
17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).
C.
Residential Mixed Use.If an existing or proposed
dwelling unit is on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling unit is considered a
single-family dwelling for the purpose of determining the applicable
requirements in this chapter. If two or more existing or proposed attached
dwelling units are on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling units are considered a
multifamily dwelling.
D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit does not require
installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary), and notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, rental of an
accessory dwelling unit shall be for a term longer than thirty days.
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling except as provided in Government Code Sections
66341.
H. Guaranteed Allowance.
1. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) and privacy impact standards in Section
17.74.090(B) (Privacy
Impacts) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other
applicable standards. The guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
2. An
accessory dwelling unit may deviate from a
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,or
private open space standard no more than the minimum necessary to allow for eight hundred square feet
of
floor area.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
setbacks.
D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if they would not be required for the primary residence under the current fire code. Establishing an
accessory
dwelling unit does not require installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary).
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling.
H. Guaranteed Allowance. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,and
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up
to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,up to sixteen feet in
height,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other applicable standards. The
guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
setbacks.
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as the demolished
structure.
3. If any portion of an existing
structure crosses a property line, the
structure may not be converted to or replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit.For an existing
structure within four feet of a property line,
the
applicant must submit a survey demonstrating that the
structure does not cross the property line.
J. Manufactured Homes and Mobile Units.
1. A manufactured home, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,as may be
amended from time to time, a manufactured home must:
a. Provide a minimum of three hundred twenty square feet of
floor area;
b. Be built on a permanent chassis;
c. Be designed for use as a
single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities; and
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
d. Include the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained within the home.
2. Vehicles and trailers, with or without wheels, which do not meet the definition of a manufactured home, are prohibited as
accessory dwelling units.
3. A prefabricated or modular home is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.
K. Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. General. Junior
accessory dwelling units shall comply with all standards in this chapter unless otherwise indicated.
2. Occupancy. The property owner must occupy either the primary
dwelling unit or the junior
accessory dwelling unit on the property.
3. Sanitation Facilities.
a. A junior
accessory dwelling unit may include sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the primary dwelling.
b. If a junior
accessory dwelling unit does not include a separate bathroom, the junior
accessory dwelling unit shall include a separate entrance from the main entrance to the
structure,with an interior entry
to the main living area.
4.
Kitchen.A junior
accessory dwelling unit must include, at a minimum:
a. A cooking facility with appliances; and
b. At least three linear feet of
food preparation counter space and three linear feet of cabinet space.
L. Multifamily Homeowners Associations. If a
multifamily dwelling is located in a
development with a homeowners’ association (HOA), an application for an
accessory dwelling unit must:
1. Be signed by an authorized officer of the HOA; and
2. Include a written statement from the HOA stating that the application is authorized by the HOA, if such authorization is required.
M. Pursuant to the authority provided by Section
65852.21(f) of the Government Code, no
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on any
lot in a single-family zoning
district if: (1) an urban
lot split has been approved pursuant to Chapter
16.78 of this code; and (2) an SB 9 residential
development with two units has been approved for construction pursuant to Chapter
17.75 of this code. (Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1052 § 4, 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.040 General requirements (effective outside coastal zone).
The following requirements apply to all
accessory dwelling units:
A. Where Allowed. An
accessory dwelling unit is permitted:
1. In any zoning district where single-family or
multifamily dwellings are a permitted use; and
2. On any
parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or
multifamily dwelling.
B. Maximum Number per
Parcel.Not more than one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed per
parcel except as allowed by Section
17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).
C.
Residential Mixed Use.If an existing or proposed
dwelling unit is on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling unit is considered a
single-family dwelling for the purpose of determining the applicable
requirements in this chapter. If two or more existing or proposed attached
dwelling units are on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling units are considered a
multifamily dwelling.
D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit does not require
installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary), and notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, rental of an
accessory dwelling unit shall be for a term longer than thirty days.
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling except as provided in Government Code Sections
66341.
H. Guaranteed Allowance.
1. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) and privacy impact standards in Section
17.74.090(B) (Privacy
Impacts) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other
applicable standards. The guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
2. An
accessory dwelling unit may deviate from a
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,or
private open space standard no more than the minimum necessary to allow for eight hundred square feet
of
floor area.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
setbacks. D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if they would not be required for the primary residence under the current fire code. Establishing an
accessory
dwelling unit does not require installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary).
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling.
H. Guaranteed Allowance. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,and
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up
to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,up to sixteen feet in
height,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other applicable standards. The
guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
setbacks.
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as the demolished
structure.
3. If any portion of an existing
structure crosses a property line, the
structure may not be converted to or replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit.For an existing
structure within four feet of a property line,
the
applicant must submit a survey demonstrating that the
structure does not cross the property line.
J. Manufactured Homes and Mobile Units.
1. A manufactured home, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,as may be
amended from time to time, a manufactured home must:
a. Provide a minimum of three hundred twenty square feet of
floor area;
b. Be built on a permanent chassis;
c. Be designed for use as a
single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities; and
d. Include the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained within the home.
2. Vehicles and trailers, with or without wheels, which do not meet the definition of a manufactured home, are prohibited as
accessory dwelling units.
3. A prefabricated or modular home is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.
K. Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. General. Junior
accessory dwelling units shall comply with all standards in this chapter unless otherwise indicated.
2. Occupancy. The property owner must occupy either the primary
dwelling unit or the junior
accessory dwelling unit on the property.
3. Sanitation Facilities.
a. A junior
accessory dwelling unit may include sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the primary dwelling.
b. If a junior
accessory dwelling unit does not include a separate bathroom, the junior
accessory dwelling unit shall include a separate entrance from the main entrance to the
structure,with an interior entry
to the main living area.
4.
Kitchen.A junior
accessory dwelling unit must include, at a minimum:
a. A cooking facility with appliances; and
b. At least three linear feet of
food preparation counter space and three linear feet of cabinet space.
L. Multifamily Homeowners Associations. If a
multifamily dwelling is located in a
development with a homeowners’ association (HOA), an application for an
accessory dwelling unit must:
1. Be signed by an authorized officer of the HOA; and
2. Include a written statement from the HOA stating that the application is authorized by the HOA, if such authorization is required.
M. Pursuant to the authority provided by Section
65852.21(f) of the Government Code, no
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted on any
lot in a single-family zoning
district if: (1) an urban
lot split has been approved pursuant to Chapter
16.78 of this code; and (2) an SB 9 residential
development with two units has been approved for construction pursuant to Chapter
17.75 of this code. (Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1052 § 4, 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.040 General requirements (effective outside coastal zone).
The following requirements apply to all
accessory dwelling units:
A. Where Allowed. An
accessory dwelling unit is permitted:
1. In any zoning district where single-family or
multifamily dwellings are a permitted use; and
2. On any
parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or
multifamily dwelling.
B. Maximum Number per
Parcel.Not more than one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed per
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
parcel except as allowed by Section
17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).
C.
Residential Mixed Use.If an existing or proposed
dwelling unit is on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling unit is considered a
single-family dwelling for the purpose of determining the applicable
requirements in this chapter. If two or more existing or proposed attached
dwelling units are on a
parcel with a nonresidential use, the
dwelling units are considered a
multifamily dwelling.
D. Utility Connections. Utility connection requirements shall be subject to state law and the serving utility district. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit in conformance with this chapter does not require
placing existing overhead utility lines underground.
E. Fire Sprinklers. The city shall not require
accessory dwelling units to provide fire sprinklers if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Establishing an
accessory dwelling unit does not require
installing fire sprinklers in the existing primary dwelling.
F.
Vacation Rentals Prohibited.
Accessory dwelling units may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary), and notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, rental of an
accessory dwelling unit shall be for a term longer than thirty days.
G. Separate Sale from Primary Dwelling. An
accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed separately from the primary dwelling except as provided in Government Code Sections
66341.
H. Guaranteed Allowance.
1. Maximum
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,
private open space standards in Section
17.74.080 (Development standards) and privacy impact standards in Section
17.74.090(B) (Privacy
Impacts) shall not prohibit an
accessory dwelling unit with up to eight hundred square feet of
floor area,and four-foot side and
rear yard setbacks, provided the
accessory dwelling unit complies with all other
applicable standards. The guaranteed allowance of eight hundred square feet of
floor area is in
addition to the maximum
floor area of a property.
2. An
accessory dwelling unit may deviate from a
building coverage,
floor area ratio,front
setbacks,or
private open space standard no more than the minimum necessary to allow for eight hundred square feet
of
floor area.
I. Converting and Replacing Existing
Structures.
1. An internal
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed regardless of whether it conforms to the current zoning requirement for
building separation or
setbacks.
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
--- --- ---

G. Separate
H. Guarante
1. Maximum
Impacts) sha
applicable st
2. An
access
of
floor area.
I. Converting
1. An interna

or area.
Converting
An interna
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and
2. If an existing
structure is demolished and replaced with an
accessory dwelling unit,an
accessory dwelling unit may be constructed in the same location and
--- --- --- ---
structure.
3. If any portion of an existing
structure crosses a property line (excluding attached
dwelling units bisected by a property line along the common wall), the
structure may not
an
accessory dwelling unit.For an existing
structure within four feet of a property line, the
applicant must submit a survey demonstrating that the

structure does
J. Manufactured Homes and Mobile Units.
1. A manufactured home, as defined in California Health and Safety Code Section
18007,is allowed as an

accessory dwelling unit.Pursuant to California
amended from time to time, a manufactured home must:
a. Be built on a permanent chassis;
b. Be designed for use as a
single-family dwelling with or without a foundation when connected to the required utilities; and
c. Include the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained within the home.
2. Vehicles and trailers, with or without wheels, which do not meet the definition of a manufactured home, are prohibited as
accessory dwelling units.
3. A prefabricated or modular home is allowed as an
accessory dwelling unit.
K. Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units.
1. General. Junior
accessory dwelling units shall comply with all standards in this chapter unless otherwise indicated.
2. Occupancy. The property owner must occupy either the primary
dwelling unit or the junior
accessory dwelling unit on the property unless the property is owned by a governmental agency, land trust, or
housing organization, in which case owner-occupancy is not required.
3. Sanitation Facilities.
a. A junior
accessory dwelling unit may include sanitation facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the primary dwelling.
b. If a junior
accessory dwelling unit does not include a separate bathroom, the junior
accessory dwelling
unit shall include a separate entrance from the
to the main living area.
4.
Kitchen.A junior
accessory dwelling unit must include, at a minimum:
a. A cooking facility with appliances; and
b. At least three linear feet of
food preparation counter space and three linear feet of cabinet space.
L. Pursuant to the authority provided by Section
65852.21(f) of the Government Code, no
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit
shall
district if: (1) an urban
lot split has been approved pursuant to Chapter
16.78 of this code; and (2) an SB 9 residential
development with two units on each
lot has
Chapter
17.75 of this code. (Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord.
1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att.
1), 2022; Ord.
1052 § 4, 2022; Ord.
1043
§ 2 (Att. 2),
17.74.050 Units subject to limited standards (effective within coastal zone).
The city shall ministerially approve an application for a
building permit within a residential or
mixed use
zoning district to create the following types of
dwelling unit,the city shall require compliance only with the
development standards in this subsection. Standards in Sections
17.74.080 (Development
do not apply to these types of
accessory dwelling units.
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
A. Internal
Accessory Dwelling Units.One internal
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit per
parcel with a proposed or existing

single-family dwelling if all
1. The internal
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit is within the proposed space of a

single-family dwelling or existing space of a

single-family dwelling or
include an expansion of not more than one hundred fifty square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing
accessory structure.An expansion beyond the physical
story of an existing
accessory structure shall be limited to accommodating ingress and egress.
2. The unit has exterior access from the proposed or existing
single-family dwelling.
3. The side and rear
setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.
4. The junior
accessory dwelling unit complies with Government Code Section
65852.22.
B. One-Story Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units Eight Hundred Square Feet or Less. One detached
accessory dwelling unit for a
parcel with a proposed
accessory dwelling unit may be combined with a junior
accessory dwelling unit described in subsection A
of this section (Internal Accessory Dwelling Units). The
following:
1. Minimum rear and side
setbacks:four feet.
2. Maximum
floor area:eight hundred square feet.
3. Maximum
height:sixteen feet.
C. Nonlivable Multifamily Space. One or more internal
accessory dwelling units within the portions of existing
multifamily dwelling structures that are
storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics,
basements,or
garages,subject to the following:
1. At least one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed within an existing
multifamily dwelling up to a maximum of twenty-five percent of the existing
multifamily dwelling units; and
2. Each unit shall comply with state
building standards for dwellings.
D. Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units on Multifamily
Parcels.
1. Not more than two detached
accessory dwelling units that are located on a
parcel that has an existing or proposed
multifamily dwelling,subject to the
a. Maximum
height:eighteen feet.
b. Minimum rear and side
setbacks:four feet.
2. If the existing
multifamily dwelling has a rear or side
setback of less than four feet, the city shall not require any
modification of the existing
multifamily dwelling as a condition of approving the application
to construct an
accessory dwelling unit that satisfies the requirements of this subsection. (Ord.
1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.050 Units subject to limited standards (effective outside coastal zone).
The city shall ministerially approve an application for a
building permit within a residential or
mixed use
zoning district to create any of the following types of
accessory dwelling unit,the city shall require compliance only with the
development standards in this subsection. Standards in Sections
17.74.080
(Development
standards) do not apply to these types of
accessory dwelling units.
A. Internal
Accessory Dwelling Units.One internal
accessory dwelling unit and one junior
accessory dwelling unit per
parcel with a proposed or existing
1. The internal
accessory dwelling unit or junior
accessory dwelling unit is within the proposed space of a

single-family dwelling or existing space of a

single-family dwelling or
include an expansion of not more than one hundred fifty square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing
accessory structure.An expansion beyond the physical
story of an existing
accessory structure shall be limited to accommodating ingress and egress.
2. The unit has exterior access from the proposed or existing
single-family dwelling.
3. The side and rear
setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.
4. The junior
accessory dwelling unit complies with Government Code Sections
66333 through
66339.
--- --- --- ---
B. Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units Eight Hundred Square Feet or Less. One detached
accessory dwelling unit for a
parcel
with a proposed or existing
dwelling unit may be combined with a junior
accessory dwelling unit described in subsection A of this section (Internal Accessory Dwelling Units). The
1. Minimum rear and side
setbacks:four feet.
2. Maximum
floor area:eight hundred square feet.
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a
A. “Accessory dwelling unit” means an attached or a detached residential
dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a

lot with a proposed or

lot with a proposed or
3. Maximum
height:sixteen feet or as allowed by Government Code Section
66321(b)(4).
C. Nonlivable Multifamily Space. One or more internal
accessory dwelling units within the portions of existing

multifamily dwelling structures that are
storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics,
basements,or
garages,subject to the following:
1. At least one
accessory dwelling unit is allowed within an existing
multifamily dwelling up to a maximum of twenty-five percent of the existing
2. Each unit shall comply with state
building standards for dwellings.
D. Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units on Multifamily
Parcels.
1. Up to two detached
accessory dwelling units are allowed on a
lot with a proposed
multifamily dwelling.On a

lot with an existing

multifamily dwelling,
allowed, not to exceed the number of existing units on the
lot.The
accessory dwelling units must comply with the following:
a. Maximum
height:sixteen feet or as allowed by Government Code Section
66321(b)(4).
b. Minimum rear and side
setbacks:four feet.
2. If the existing
multifamily dwelling has a rear or side
setback of less than four feet, the city shall not require
any
modification of
the existing
multifamily dwelling as a condition of approving the application
to construct an
accessory dwelling unit that satisfies the requirements of this subsection. (Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord.
1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord.
17.74.060 Units subject to full review standards (effective within coastal zone).
The city shall ministerially approve an application for a
building permit to create the following types of
accessory dwelling units:
A. One-Story Attached
Accessory Dwelling Units.A one-story attached
accessory dwelling unit in compliance with standards
in Sections
standards).
B. One-Story Detached
Accessory Dwelling Units Between Eight Hundred and One Thousand Two Hundred Square Feet. A one-story detached
and one thousand two hundred square feet in compliance with standards in Sections
17.74.080 (Development
standards) and
17.74.090

17.74.060 Units subject to full review standards (effective outside coastal zone).

The city shall ministerially approve an application for a building permit to create the following types of accessory dwelling units: A. Attached Accessory Dwelling Units. An attached accessory dwelling unit in compliance with standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards) with a height eligible for ministerial approval as specified in Table 17.74-1. B. Detached Accessory Dwelling Units Between Eight Hundred and One Thousand Two Hundred Square Feet. A detached accessory dwelling unit with a floor area between eight hundred and one thousand two hundred square feet in compliance with standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards) with a height eligible for ministerial approval as specified in Table 17.74-1. (Ord. 1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.070 Units requiring a design permit (effective within coastal zone).

The following types of
accessory dwelling units require planning commission approval of a design permit:
A. Two-Story
Accessory Dwelling Units.A two-story attached or detached
accessory dwelling unit greater than sixteen feet in
height in compliance with standards in Sections
17.7
standards) and
17.74.090 (Objective design standards).
B.
Accessory Dwelling Units Deviating from Standards. Any
accessory dwelling unit that deviates from one or more standards in Sections
17.74.080 (Development standards) an
standards). (Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.7
4.080 (Development
d
17.74.090 (Objective design

17.74.070 Units requiring a design permit (effective outside coastal zone).

The following types of accessory dwelling units require planning commission approval of a design permit: A. Accessory Dwelling Units – Additional Height Allowance. A detached accessory dwelling unit in compliance with standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards) with a height that requires design review as specified in Table 17.74-1.

B. Accessory Dwelling Units Deviating from Standards. Any accessory dwelling unit that deviates from one or more standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards), except for accessory dwelling units approved pursuant to Section 17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards). (Ord. 1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord. 1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.080 Development standards (effective within coastal zone).

The standards in this section apply to all accessory dwelling units not approved pursuant to Section 17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards). A. General. Table 17.74-1 shows development standards that apply to accessory dwelling units.

Table 17.74-1: Development Standards

ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location Standard
Unit Size,Maximum
Attached ADU, one bedroom or less 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling
or 850 sq. ft.,whichever isgreater
Attached ADU, more than one bedroom 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling
or 1,000 sq. ft.,whichever isgreater
Detached ADU 1,200 sq. ft.
Internal ADU No maximum
Junior ADU 500 sq. ft.
Floor Area Ratio,Maximum [1] As required byzoningdistrict [2]
S etbacks,Minimum [3,4]
Front Same asprimarydwelling[5]
Interior Side,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location Standard
--- --- --- ---
Exterior Side,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
Rear,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
Building Coverage,Maximum
R-M zoningdistrict 40% [2]
All other zoningdistricts No maximum
Height,Maximum [3]
Attached ADU 25 ft. or maximum permitted in zoning
district,whichever is less
One-story detached ADU on
lot with
existing or proposed
single-family
dwelling
16 ft.
One-story detached ADU on
lot with
existing or proposed multifamily and
multi-storydwelling
18 ft.
Detached ADU,two-story[6] 22 ft.
Private Open Space,Minimum [7] 48 sq. ft. [2]

Notes: [1] Calculated as the total floor area ratio on the site, including both the primary dwelling and accessory dwelling unit. An applicant may request simultaneous approval of a new internal accessory dwelling unit and an addition to the primary residence as part of a single application.

[2] Standard may not prohibit an accessory dwelling unit with at least eight hundred square feet of floor area. See Section 17.74.040(H) (Guaranteed Allowance).

[3] Setback and height standards apply only to attached and detached accessory dwelling units. Standards do not apply to internal or junior accessory dwelling units.

[4] See also Section 17.74.040(I) (Converting and Replacing Existing Structures) for setback exceptions that apply to an accessory dwelling unit created by converting or replacing an existing structure. [5] See also subsection B of this section (Front Setbacks).

[6] A two-story detached accessory dwelling unit greater than sixteen feet in height requires a design permit.

[7] Private open space may include screened terraces, decks, balconies, and other similar areas.

B. Front Setbacks.

1. Any increased front
setback requirement that applies to a
garage associated with a primary
dwelling unit also applies to a
garage that serves an
accessory
dwelling unit.
2. In the R-1 zoning district, front
setback exceptions in Riverview Terrace and on Wharf Road as allowed in Section
17.16.030(B) apply to
accessory dwelling units.
3. In the
mixed use zoning districts, minimum front
setbacks in Chapter
17.20 (Mixed Use Zoning Districts) apply to
accessory dwelling units.Maximum
setbacks or build-to requirements do not apply.
C. Parking.
1. All Areas. The following parking provisions apply to
accessory dwelling units in all areas in Capitola:
a. Required Parking in
Addition to Primary Residence.
Parking spaces required for an
accessory dwelling unit are in
addition to parking required for the primary residence.
b. Tandem Spaces. Required off-street parking may be provided as
tandem parking on an existing driveway.
c. Within
Setback Areas.
i. Required off-street parking may be located within minimum required
setback areas from front, side, and rear property lines.
ii. A
parking space in a required front
setback area shall be a “ribbon” or “Hollywood” design with two parallel strips of pavement. The paving strips shall be no wider than two
and one-half feet each and shall
utilize permeable paving such as porous concrete/asphalt, open-jointed pavers, and turf grids. Unpaved areas between the strips shall be landscaped with turf or low-growing ground cover.
d. Alley-Accessed Parking. Parking accessed from an alley shall maintain a twenty-four-foot back-out area, which may include the alley.
2. Outside of
Coastal Zone and in Cliffwood
Heights.The following parking provisions apply only to
accessory dwelling units outside of the
coastal zone and in the Cliffwood

Heights neighborhood as shown
in Figure 17.74-1.
a. No additional parking is required for an internal or junior
accessory dwelling unit.The
floor area of an internal or junior
accessory dwelling unit shall not be included in the
parking calculation for the
primary residence.
b. One off-street
parking space is required for an attached or detached
accessory dwelling unit,except as provided in subsection (C)(2)(c) of this section.
c. No off-street parking is required for an
accessory dwelling unit in the following cases:
i. The
accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, as defined in Government Code Section
65852.2(j)(10).
ii. The
accessory dwelling unit is located within a National Register Historic District or other historic district officially designated by the city council.
iii. The
accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an
accessory structure.
iv. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the
accessory dwelling unit.
v. When there is a car share vehicle pick-up/drop-off location within one
block of the
accessory dwelling unit.
d. When a
garage,
carport,or covered parking
structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwelling unit or converted to an

accessory dwelling
unit,replacement parking stalls
are not required for the demolished or converted parking
structure.
3. Within
Coastal Zone and Outside Cliffwood
Heights.The following parking provisions apply only to
accessory dwelling units in the
coastal zone and outside of the Cliffwood

Heights neighborhood as shown
in Figure 17.74-1 in accordance with the city’s adopted
local coastal program.
a. One off-street
parking space is required for any type of
accessory dwelling unit except as provided in subsection (C)(3)(b) of this section.
b. Where the primary residence is served by four or more existing off-street
parking spaces,including spaces in a tandem configuration, no off-street parking is required for the

accessory dwelling unit.
c. When a
garage,
carport,or covered parking
structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwelling unit or converted to an

accessory dwelling
unit,replacement parking stalls
are required for the demolished or converted parking
structure.Replacement parking space(s) may be covered or uncovered. Replacement parking does not satisfy the one off-street parking requirement for
the
accessory dwelling unit in subsection (C)(3)(a) of this section.

Figure 17.74-1: Cliffwood Heights ADU Parking Exclusion Area

Click to enlarge image (PDF)

==> picture [243 x 188] intentionally omitted <==

(Ord. 1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.080 Development standards (effective outside coastal zone).

The standards in this section apply to all accessory dwelling units not approved pursuant to Section 17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards). A. General. Table 17.74-1 shows development standards that apply to accessory dwelling units.

Table 17.74-1: Development Standards

ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location ADU Type/Location Standard
Unit Size,Maximum
Attached ADU, one bedroom or less 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling
or 850 sq. ft.,whichever isgreater
Attached ADU, more than one bedroom 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling
or 1,000 sq. ft.,whichever isgreater
Detached ADU 1,200 sq. ft.
Internal ADU No maximum
Junior ADU 500 sq. ft.
Floor Area Ratio,Maximum [1] As required byzoningdistrict [2]
Setbacks,Minimum [3, 4]
Front Same asprimarydwelling[5]
Interior Side,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
Exterior Side,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
Rear,1st and 2nd
Story
4ft.
Building Coverage,Maximum
R-M zoningdistrict 40% [2]
All other zoningdistricts No maximum
Height,Maximum [3]
Attached ADU 25 ft. or maximum permitted in zoning
district,whichever is less
Detached ADU – Ministerial Approval 16 ft. [8] [9]
Detached ADU – With Design Permit 22 ft.
Private Open Space,Minimum [7] 48 sq. ft. [2]

Notes: [1] Calculated as the total floor area ratio on the site, including both the primary dwelling and accessory dwelling unit. An applicant may request simultaneous approval of a new internal accessory dwelling unit and an addition to the primary residence as part of a single application.

[2] Standard may not prohibit an accessory dwelling unit with at least eight hundred square feet of floor area. See Section 17.74.040(H) (Guaranteed Allowance).

[3] Setback and height standards apply only to attached and detached accessory dwelling units. Standards do not apply to internal or junior accessory dwelling units.

[4] See also Section 17.74.040(I) (Converting and Replacing Existing Structures) for setback exceptions that apply to an accessory dwelling unit created by converting or replacing an existing structure. [5] See also subsection B of this section (Front Setbacks) and Section 17.74.040(H).

[6] A two-story detached accessory dwelling unit greater than sixteen feet in height requires a design permit. [7] Private open space may include screened terraces, decks, balconies, and other similar areas.

[8] A maximum height of eighteen feet is allowed for a detached accessory dwelling unit on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling unit that is within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code. An additional two feet in height is allowed to accommodate a roof pitch on the accessory dwelling unit that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.

ing or proposed single-family dwelling unit that is within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code. An additional two feet in height is allowed to accommodate a roof pitch on the accessory dwelling unit that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.

[9] A maximum height of eighteen feet is allowed for a detached accessory dwelling unit on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily, multistory dwelling.

B. Front Setbacks.

1. Any increased front
setback requirement that applies to a
garage associated with a primary
dwelling unit also applies to a
garage that serves an
accessory
1. Any increased front
setback requirement that applies to a
garage associated with a primary
dwelling unit also applies to a
garage that serves an
accessory
dwelling unit,except dwelling unit,except dwelling unit,except that increased front
setback
that increased front
setback
requirements do not apply to an
accessory dwelling unit created by converting or replacing an existing
structure.
2. In the R-1 zoning district, front
setback exceptions in Riverview Terrace and on Wharf Road as allowed in Section
17.16.030(B) apply to
accessory dwelling units.
3. In the
mixed use zoning districts, minimum front
setbacks in Chapter
17.20 (Mixed Use Zoning Districts) apply to
accessory dwelling units.Maximum

setbacks or build-to requirements do not apply.
C. Parking.
1. All Areas. The following parking provisions apply to
accessory dwelling units in all areas in Capitola:
a. Required Parking in
Addition to Primary Residence.
Parking spaces required for an
accessory dwelling unit are in
addition to parking required for the primary residence.
b. Tandem Spaces. Required off-street parking may be provided as
tandem parking on an existing driveway.
c. Within
Setback Areas.
i. Required off-street parking may be located within minimum required
setback areas from front, side, and rear property lines.
ii. A
parking space in a required front
setback area shall be a “ribbon” or “Hollywood” design with two parallel strips of pavement. The paving strips shall
be no wider than two and one-half feet each and shall
utilize permeable paving such as porous concrete/asphalt, open-jointed pavers, and turf grids. Unpaved areas between the strips shall be landscaped with turf or low-growing ground cover.
d. Alley-Accessed Parking. Parking accessed from an alley shall maintain a twenty-four-foot back-out area, which may include the alley.
2. Outside of
Coastal Zone or in Cliffwood
Heights.The following parking provisions apply only to
accessory dwelling units outside of the
coastal zone and in the Cliffwood

Heights neighborhood as shown in
Figure 17.74-1.
a. No additional parking is required for an internal or junior
accessory dwelling unit.The
floor area of an internal or junior
accessory dwelling unit shall not be included in
the parking calculation for the
primary residence.
b. One off-street
parking space is required for an attached or detached
accessory dwelling unit,except as provided in subsection (C)(2)(c) of this section.
c. No off-street parking is required for an
accessory dwelling unit in the following cases:
i. The
accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, as defined in Government Code Section
66313(m).
ii. The
accessory dwelling unit is located within a National Register Historic District or other historic district officially designated by the city council.
iii. The
accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an
accessory structure.
iv. When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the
accessory dwelling unit.
v. When there is a car share vehicle pick-up/drop-off location within one
block of the
accessory dwelling unit.
vi. When a permit application for an
accessory dwelling unit is submitted with a permit application to create a new
single-family dwelling or a new
multifamily dwelling on
the same
lot;provided, that the
accessory dwelling unit or the
parcel satisfies any other criteria listed above.
d. When a
garage,
carport,covered parking
structure,or uncovered
parking space is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwelling unit or converted to an
accessory dwelling unit,
replacement parking stalls are not required for the demolished or converted parking
structure.
3. Within
Coastal Zone and Outside Cliffwood
Heights.The following parking provisions apply only to
accessory dwelling units in the
coastal zone and outside of the Cliffwood

Heights neighborhood as shown
in Figure 17.74-1 in accordance with the city’s adopted
local coastal program.
a. One off-street
parking space is required for any type of
accessory dwelling unit except as provided in subsection (C)(3)(b) of this section.
b. Where the primary residence is served by three or more existing off-street
parking spaces,including spaces in a tandem configuration, no off-street parking is required for the

accessory dwelling unit.
c. When a
garage,
carport,or covered parking
structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwelling unit or converted to an

accessory dwelling
unit,replacement parking stalls
are required for the demolished or converted parking
structure.Replacement parking space(s) may be covered or uncovered. Replacement parking does not satisfy the one
off-street parking requirement for
the
accessory dwelling unit in subsection (C)(3)(a) of this section.

Figure 17.74-1: Cliffwood Heights ADU Parking Exclusion Area Click to enlarge image (PDF) (Ord. 1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord. 1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord. 1057 § 2 (Att. 1), 2022; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.090 Objective design standards (effective within coastal zone).

The standards in this section apply to all accessory dwelling units not approved pursuant to Section 17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).

A. Entrance Orientation – Detached ADU. The primary entrance to a detached accessory dwelling unit shall face the front or interior of the parcel unless the accessory dwelling unit is directly accessible from an alley or a public street.

B. Privacy Impacts. To minimize privacy impacts on adjacent properties, the following requirements apply to walls with windows within eight feet of an interior side or rear property line abutting a residential use:

  1. For a single-story wall or the first story of a two-story wall, privacy impacts shall be minimized by either:

a. A six-foot solid fence on the property line; or

b. Clerestory or opaque windows for all windows facing the adjacent property.

  1. For a second-story wall, all windows facing the adjacent property shall be clerestory or opaque.

C. Second-Story Decks and Balconies. Second-story decks and balconies shall be located and designed to minimize privacy impacts on adjacent residential properties, as determined by the planning commission through the design permit approval process.

D. Architectural Details. Table 17.74-2 shows architectural detail standards for accessory dwelling units.

Table 17.74-2: Architectural Detail Standards

Non-Historic Property [1] Non-Historic Property [1] Historic Property [1] Historic Property [1]
**Attached ADU ** Detached ADU Attached ADU Detached ADU
Primary
Exterior
Materials [2]
Same as primary
dwelling [3]
No requirement Same as primary
dwelling; or
horizontal wood,
fiber cement, or
board and batten
siding or
shingles [3]
Horizontal wood,
fiber cement, or
board and batten
siding, or shingles
[4]
Window and
Door
Materials
No requirement Wood, composite, pre-finished
metal with a nonreflective finish
Window
Proportions
No requirement Windows must be taller than they
are wide or match the proportions of
theprimarydwellingwindow [5]
Window Pane
Divisions
No requirement True or simulated divided lights
Roof Material Same as primary
dwelling [3]
No requirement Same as primary
dwelling [3]
Same as primary
dwelling; or
architectural
composition
shingles, clay tile,
slate, or
nonreflective
standing seam
metal [3]
Roof Pitch No requirement 4:12 or greater
[6]
No requirement 4:12 or greater [6]

Notes:

[1] “Historic property” means a designated historic resource or potential historic resource as defined in Section 17.84.020 (Types of historic resources).

[2] Standard does not apply to secondary and accent materials.

[3] “Same as primary dwelling” means the type of material must be the same as the primary dwelling. The size, shape, dimensions, and configuration of individual pieces or elements of the material may differ from the primary dwelling.

[4] If primary dwelling is predominantly stucco, stucco is allowed for the accessory dwelling unit.

[5] Bathroom windows may be horizontally oriented.

[6] If the primary dwelling has a roof pitch shallower than 4:12, the accessory dwelling unit roof pitch may match the primary dwelling.

E. Building Additions to Historic Structures. A building addition to a designated historic resource or potential historic resource as defined in Section 17.84.020 (Types of historic resources) for an attached accessory dwelling unit shall be inset or separated by a connector that is offset at least eighteen inches from the parallel side or rear building wall to distinguish it from the historic structure. (Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.090 Objective design standards (effective outside coastal zone).

The standards in this section apply to all accessory dwelling units not approved pursuant to Section 17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).

A. Entrance Orientation – Detached ADU. The primary entrance to a detached accessory dwelling unit shall face the front or interior of the parcel unless the accessory dwelling unit is directly accessible from an alley or a public street.

B. Privacy Impacts. To minimize privacy impacts on adjacent properties, the following requirements apply to walls with windows within eight feet of an interior side or rear property line abutting a residential use:

  1. For a single-story wall or the first story of a two-story wall, privacy impacts shall be minimized by either:

a. A six-foot solid fence on the property line; or

b. Clerestory or opaque windows for all windows facing the adjacent property.

  1. For a second-story wall, all windows facing the adjacent property shall be clerestory or opaque.

C. Second-Story Decks and Balconies. Second-story decks and balconies proposed as part of an accessory dwelling unit that requires a design permit shall be located and designed to minimize privacy impacts on adjacent residential properties, as determined by the planning commission through the design permit approval process.

D. Architectural Details. Table 17.74-2 shows architectural detail standards for accessory dwelling units.

Table 17.74-2: Architectural Detail Standards

Non-historic property in the
coastal zones and all
properties outside the
coastal
zone [1]
Non-historic property in the
coastal zones and all
properties outside the
coastal
zone [1]
Historic property in the
zone [1]
Historic property in the
zone [1]
Historic property in the
zone [1]
coastal
**Attached ADU ** Detached ADU Attached ADU Detached ADU
Primary
Exterior
Materials [2]
Same as primary
dwelling [3]
No requirement Same as primary
dwelling; or
horizontal wood,
fiber cement, or
board and batten
siding or
shingles [3]
Horizontal wood,
fiber cement, or
board and batten
siding, or shingles
[4]
Window and
Door
Materials
No requirement Wood, composite, pre-finished
metal with a nonreflective finish
Window
Proportions
No requirement Windows must be taller than they
are wide or match the proportions of
theprimarydwellingwindow [5]
Window Pane
Divisions
No requirement True or simulated divided lights
Roof Material Same as primary
dwelling [3]
No requirement Same as primary
dwelling [3]
Same as primary
dwelling; or
architectural
composition
shingles, clay tile,
slate, or
nonreflective
standing seam
metal [3]
Roof Pitch No requirement 4:12 or greater
[6]
No requirement 4:12 or greater [6]
Exterior
Preservation
No requirement No requirement See Section
17.74.090(E)(1)
No requirement

Notes:

[1] “Historic property” means a designated historic resource or potential historic resource as defined in Section 17.84.020 (Types of historic resources).

[2] Standard does not apply to secondary and accent materials.

[3] “Same as primary dwelling” means the type of material must be the same as the primary dwelling. The size, shape, dimensions, and configuration of individual pieces or elements of the material may differ from the primary dwelling.

[4] If primary dwelling is predominantly stucco, stucco is allowed for the accessory dwelling unit.

[5] Bathroom windows may be horizontally oriented.

[6] If the primary dwelling has a roof pitch shallower than 4:12, the accessory dwelling unit roof pitch may match the primary dwelling.

E. Building Additions to Historic Structures. The following standards apply in the coastal zone to an ADU attached to a designated historic resource or potential historic resource as defined in Section 17.84.020 (Types of historic resources).

  1. The attached ADU may not obscure, damage, or destroy the exterior of a historic structure on its historically significant building face(s), including associated roofline(s).

  2. “Historically significant building face” means any character-defining building elevation which abuts a street or public access easement. A structure may have more than one historically significant face.

  3. Preservation requirements extend to all associated elements of a character-defining building face including, but not limited to, porches, windows, doors, trim, and cladding. (Ord. 1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.100 Deviation from standards.

A. When Allowed. The planning commission may approve an accessory dwelling unit that deviates from one or more standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards).

B. Permit Required. Deviations allowed under this section require planning commission approval of a design permit. A variance is not required. To approve the design permit, the planning commission must make the findings in Section 17.74.110 (Findings). (Ord. 1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)

17.74.110 Findings (effective within coastal zone).

A. When Required. The planning commission must make the findings in this section to approve a design permit for:

  1. Two-story attached or detached accessory dwelling units greater than sixteen feet in height; and

  2. Accessory dwelling units that deviate from one or more standards in Sections 17.74.080 (Development standards) and 17.74.090 (Objective design standards).

B. Findings. To approve the design permit, the planning commission shall find that:

  1. The exterior design of the accessory dwelling unit is compatible with the primary dwelling on the parcel through architectural use of building forms, height, construction materials, colors, landscaping, and other methods that conform to acceptable construction practices.

  2. The exterior design is in harmony with, and maintains the scale of, the neighborhood.

  3. The accessory dwelling unit will not create excessive noise, traffic, or parking congestion.

  4. The accessory dwelling unit has or will have access to adequate water and sewer service as determined by the applicable service provider.

  5. Adequate open space and landscaping have been provided that are usable for both the accessory dwelling unit and the primary residence. Open space and landscaping provide for privacy and screening of adjacent properties.

6. The location and design of the
accessory dwelling unit maintain a compatible relationship to
adjacent properties and do not significantly impact the
privacy, light, air, solar access, or parking of air, solar access, or parking of
adjacent
properties.
7. The
accessory dwelling unit generally limits the major access stairs,
decks,entry doors, and major windows to the
walls facing the primary residence, or to the alley if applicable. Windows that impact the
privacy of the neighboring side or
rear yard have been minimized. The design of the
accessory dwelling unit complements the design of the primary residence and does not visually dominate it or the
surrounding properties.
8. The
site plan is consistent with physical
development policies of the general plan, any area plan or specific plan, or other city policy for physical
development.If located in the
coastal zone,the
site plan is
consistent with policies of the local coastal plan. If located in the
coastal zone and subject to a coastal
development permit, the proposed
development will not have adverse impacts on coastal resources.
9. The project would not impair public views along the ocean and of scenic coastal areas. Where appropriate and feasible, the
site plan restores and enhances the visual quality of visually
degraded areas.
10. The project deviation (if applicable) is necessary due to special circumstances applicable to subject property, including size, shape, topography, location, existing
structures,or surroundings, and the strict
application of this chapter would deprive subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under identical zoning classification. (Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.110 Findings (effective outside coastal zone).
A. When Required. The planning commission must make the findings in this section to approve a design permit for:
1. Detached
accessory dwelling units with a
height that requires
design review as specified in Table 17.74-1; and
2.
Accessory dwelling units that deviate from one or more standards in Sections
17.74.080 (Development standards) and
17.74.090 (Objective design standards), except for
accessory dwelling units approved
pursuant to Section
17.74.050 (Units subject to limited standards).
B. Findings. To approve the design permit, the planning commission shall find that:
1. The exterior design of the
accessory dwelling unit is compatible with the primary dwelling on the
parcel through architectural use of
building forms,

height,construction materials, colors,
landscaping,and
other methods that conform to acceptable construction practices.
2. The exterior design is in harmony with, and maintains the scale of, the neighborhood.
3. The
accessory dwelling unit will not create excessive noise, traffic, or parking congestion.
4. The
accessory dwelling unit has or will have access to adequate water and sewer service as determined by the applicable service provider.
5. Adequate open space and
landscaping have been provided that are usable for both the
accessory dwelling unit and the primary residence. Open space and
landscaping provide for privacy and screening of
adjacent properties.
6. The location and design of the
accessory dwelling unit maintain a compatible relationship to
adjacent properties and do not significantly impact the
privacy, light, air, solar access, or parking of
adjacent
properties.
7. The
accessory dwelling unit generally limits the major access stairs,
decks,entry doors, and major windows to the
walls facing the primary residence, or to the alley if applicable. Windows that impact the
privacy of the neighboring side or
rear yard have been minimized. The design of the
accessory dwelling unit complements the design of the primary residence and does not visually dominate it or the
surrounding properties.
8. The
site plan is consistent with physical
development policies of the general plan, any area plan or specific plan, or other city policy for physical
development.If located in the
coastal zone,the
site plan is
consistent with policies of the local coastal plan. If located in the
coastal zone and subject to a coastal
development permit, the proposed
development will not have adverse impacts on coastal resources.
9. The project would not impair public views along the ocean and of scenic coastal areas. Where appropriate and feasible, the
site plan restores and enhances the visual quality of visually
degraded areas.
10. The project deviation (if applicable) is necessary due to special circumstances applicable to subject property, including size, shape, topography, location, existing
structures,or surroundings, and the strict
application of this chapter would deprive subject property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under identical zoning classification. (Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025;
Ord.
1066 § 2 (Att.
1), 2024; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.120 Deed restrictions (effective within coastal zone).
A. Before obtaining a
building permit for an
accessory dwelling unit,the property owner shall file with the county recorder a declaration of restrictions
containing a reference to the deed under which the
property was acquired by the current owner. The deed restriction shall state that:
1. The
accessory dwelling unit may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary).
2. The
accessory dwelling unit may not be sold separately from the primary dwelling.
6. The location and design of the
accessory dwelling unit maintain a compatible relationship to
adjacent properties and do not significantly impact the
privacy, light, air, solar access, or parking of air, solar access, or parking of
adjacent
3. For junior
accessory dwelling units,restrictions on size, owner occupancy requirement, and attributes in conformance with this chapter.
B. The above declarations are binding upon any successor in ownership of the property. Lack of compliance shall be cause for code enforcement and/or revoking the city’s approval of the
accessory dwelling
unit.
C. The deed restriction shall lapse upon removal of the
accessory dwelling unit.(Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.120 Deed restrictions (effective outside coastal zone).
A. Prior to issuing a certification of occupancy for a junior
accessory dwelling unit,the property owner shall file with the county recorder a declaration
of restrictions containing a reference to the deed under
which the property was acquired by the current owner. The deed restriction shall state that:
1. The junior
accessory dwelling unit may not be used for
vacation rentals as defined in Chapter
17.160 (Glossary).
2. The junior
accessory dwelling unit may not be sold separately from the primary dwelling.
3. Restrictions on size, owner occupancy requirement, and attributes in conformance with this chapter.
B. The above declarations are binding upon any successor in ownership of the property. Lack of compliance shall be cause for code enforcement and/or revoking the city’s approval of the junior
accessory
dwelling unit.
C. The deed restriction shall lapse upon removal of the junior
accessory dwelling unit.(Ord.
1070 § 3 (Exh. A), 2025; Ord.
1066 § 2 (Att. 1), 2024; Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
17.74.130 Incentives.
A. Fee Waivers for Affordable Units.
1. The city may waive
development fees for
accessory dwelling units that will be rented at levels affordable to low- or very low-income households.
2.
Applicants of affordable
accessory dwelling units shall record a deed restriction limiting the rent to low- or very low-income levels prior to issuance of a
building permit.
3. Landlords of
accessory dwelling units shall be relieved of any affordability condition upon payment of fees in the amount previously waived as a result of affordability requirements, subject to an annual
Consumer Price Index increase commencing with the date of application for
building permit.
B. Historic Properties. The planning commission may allow exceptions to design and
development standards for
accessory dwelling units proposed on
a property that contains a
historic resource as defined in
Chapter
17.84 (Historic Preservation). To allow such an exception, the planning commission shall approve a design permit and find that the exception
is necessary to preserve the architectural character of
the primary residence. (Ord.
1043 § 2 (Att. 2), 2020)
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