How big can an ADU be in Anaheim?

Detached ADUs in Anaheim can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs: 50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft. JADUs up to 500 sq ft.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Anaheim?

Build costs typically range $140,000 – $300,000, or $200 – $280 per square foot.

Verified March 14, 2026

ADU Regulations in Anaheim, California

Q: What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Anaheim?

Front: Same as primary dwelling. Side: 4 ft. Rear: 4 ft.

Orange County · CA · Pop. 350,000

Max ADU Size

1,200

sq ft detached

Rear Setback

4 ft

Permit Timeline

60 days

Build Cost

$140,000 – $300,000

Zoning

Allowed ADU Types

✓Detached ADU

✓Attached ADU

✓JADU (Junior ADU)

✓Garage Conversion

Max per lot: 2 ADUs✓ No owner-occupancy required

ADUs permitted by-right on residential lots per state law

Source: City of Anaheim — Accessory Dwelling Units · Anaheim Municipal Code Chapter 18.36

Dimensions

Size & Setback Requirements

Detached

1,200

sq ft max

JADU

500

sq ft max

Attached

50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft

Setbacks

front

Same as primary dwelling

side

4 ft

rear

4 ft

Max height: 16 ft

Lot coverage: Per underlying zone

Detached ADUs over 800 sq ft may trigger additional design review in some zones

Permitting

Permit Process

Department

Anaheim Planning & Building Department

Review Timeline

60 days

Permit Fees

$6,000 – $14,000

Impact Fees

Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft

Required Documents

›Plot/site plan
›Architectural floor plans
›Exterior elevations
›Title 24 energy calculations
›Grading and drainage plan (if applicable)

Anaheim participates in OC ADU resource network

Visit Anaheim Planning & Building Department →

Infrastructure

Utilities & Requirements

Solar

Required

Parking

Not required

Separate Meter

Optional

Fire Sprinklers

See note

Sewer: Connect to public sewer; OCSD connection permit required

Fire Sprinklers: Not required unless primary structure requires them

Parking: No additional parking required within 0.5 miles of transit

Financials

ADU Costs in Anaheim

Typical Build Cost

$140,000 – $300,000

Cost per Sq Ft

$200 – $280

Monthly Rental

$1,600 – $2,800/mo

Property Value Added

Adds $150,000 – $280,000 to property value

Available Grants & Programs

★CalHFA ADU Grant Program for qualifying homeowners

Orange County construction costs run slightly below LA County

Use the free ADU Cost Calculator →

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Disclaimer: Information is compiled from publicly available municipal codes for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, zoning, or construction advice. Regulations change frequently. Always verify with your local planning department. Last verified: March 14, 2026. Verify with Anaheim Planning & Building Department

Explore More

Nearby Cities in Orange County

Santa Ana

Max 1,200 sq ft · $120,000 – $260,000

Irvine

Max 1,200 sq ft · $160,000 – $340,000

Huntington Beach

Max 1,200 sq ft · $175,000 – $380,000

Garden Grove

Max 1,200 sq ft · $160,000 – $330,000

Fullerton

Max 1,200 sq ft · $160,000 – $330,000

Orange

Max 1,200 sq ft · $165,000 – $340,000

Anaheim Quick Facts

Max size1,200 sq ft
Rear setback4 ft
Permit timeline60 days
Build cost$140,000 – $300,000
Rental income$1,600 – $2,800/mo
Owner occupancyNot required

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Official Source

City of Anaheim — Accessory Dwelling Units

Anaheim Municipal Code Chapter 18.36

Last verified: March 14, 2026

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ADU rules change often.

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