ADU Regulations in Rancho Cucamonga, California
San Bernardino County · CA · Pop. 178,000
Max ADU Size
1,200
sq ft detached
Rear Setback
4 ft
Permit Timeline
60 days for ministerial review
Build Cost
$150,000 – $310,000
Zoning
Allowed ADU Types
Rancho Cucamonga uses density-based zone designations (VL=Very Low, L=Low, LM=Low-Medium, M=Medium, MH=Medium-High). ADUs are permitted by right in all residential zones per state law.
Source: City of Rancho Cucamonga — Accessory Dwelling Units · RCMC Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance), Chapter 17.38
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 (detached); 25 ft or match primary if attached
Lot coverage: Per underlying zone; ADUs exempt from lot coverage calculation
Conversions of existing garages or structures may have reduced or zero setbacks where the existing structure already encroaches. New detached ADUs must maintain 4 ft side and rear setbacks.
Permitting
Permit Process
Department
Planning Department
Review Timeline
60 days for ministerial review
Permit Fees
$7,000 – $14,000
Impact Fees
Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft; proportional fees apply above that threshold
Required Documents
- ›Site plan (to scale, showing all structures and setbacks)
- ›Architectural floor plans
- ›Elevation drawings
- ›Title 24 energy compliance report
- ›Structural drawings (new construction)
- ›Grading/drainage plan (if applicable)
Rancho Cucamonga processes ADU permits through its online permitting portal. Inland Empire construction costs are generally 20–30% below LA/OC, making the city an attractive market for ADU investment.
Visit Planning Department →Infrastructure
Utilities & Requirements
Solar
Required
Parking
Not required
Separate Meter
Optional
Fire Sprinklers
See note
Cucamonga Valley Water District serves most of the city; verify utility provider for your parcel. Electrical panel upgrade commonly needed for new detached ADUs.
Financials
ADU Costs in Rancho Cucamonga
Typical Build Cost
$150,000 – $310,000
Cost per Sq Ft
$210 – $280
Monthly Rental
$1,500 – $2,400/mo/mo
Property Value Added
Adds $130,000 – $260,000 to property value
Available Grants & Programs
- ★CalHFA ADU Grant Program (up to $40,000 for eligible low-income owners)
- ★San Bernardino County HOME Program funds may be available
Rancho Cucamonga's logistics and warehousing economy draws a large workforce, sustaining strong rental demand despite Inland Empire pricing. Garage conversions typically run $60,000–$120,000, offering strong ROI.
Use the free ADU Cost Calculator →Free Service
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Rancho Cucamonga Quick Facts
- Max size1,200 sq ft
- Rear setback4 ft
- Permit timeline60 days for ministerial review
- Build cost$150,000 – $310,000
- Rental income$1,500 – $2,400/mo/mo
- Owner occupancyNot required
Official Source
City of Rancho Cucamonga — Accessory Dwelling UnitsRCMC Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance), Chapter 17.38
Last verified: March 14, 2026
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