Hesperia ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Hesperia is located in Southern California and is known for its vibrant community and scenic beauty. Residents enjoy a mix of urban conveniences and natural attractions.

California State ADU Laws

California has some of the most progressive ADU legislation in the country. Recent laws including AB 68, SB 13, and AB 881 have significantly streamlined the ADU approval process and reduced barriers for homeowners.

Key California ADU Regulations:

• Size Limits: Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less.
• Setbacks: Minimum 4-foot side and rear setbacks for detached ADUs.
• Height: Generally up to 16 feet, with some exceptions for two-story ADUs (up to 25 feet in certain zones).
• Parking: No additional parking required in most cases, especially near transit.
• Owner Occupancy: No owner-occupancy requirement until 2025 for most ADUs.

Hesperia Local Requirements

While California state law provides baseline regulations, Hesperia may have additional local requirements. GatherADU's team stays current with Hesperia's specific zoning codes, architectural guidelines, and permit processes to ensure your ADU project meets all requirements.

Common local considerations in Hesperia include:

• Design review requirements and architectural standards
• Utility connection fees and impact fees
• Fire department access requirements
• Neighborhood-specific overlay zones

California law (AB 68, AB 881, SB 9, and subsequent legislation) guarantees your right to build ADUs. Cities cannot:

• Require owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after 2020
• Require additional parking for ADUs near transit
• Charge impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft
• Deny ADUs that meet state minimum standards
• Impose lot coverage limits that prevent a 800 sq ft ADU

If you believe your ADU application is being unfairly denied, California HCD can intervene on your behalf.

California ADU Legislation Overview

California leads the nation in ADU-friendly legislation. The state has passed numerous laws to encourage ADU construction as a solution to the housing crisis.

Key California ADU Laws:

• AB 68 (2020): Reduced local government review time and expanded ADU construction options.
• SB 13 (2020): Limited impact fees and reduced owner-occupancy requirements.
• AB 881 (2020): Prohibited minimum lot size requirements and allowed JADUs in all zones.
• AB 2221 (2022): Further streamlined the ADU approval process.
• SB 897 (2022): Increased height limits for ADUs in certain zones.

California ADU Benefits:

• Property value increase of 20-30% on average
• Rental income potential of $1,500-$3,500+ monthly
• Housing flexibility for family members
• No owner-occupancy requirements (until 2025)

Hesperia, California, with a population of approximately 95,123, is a city situated in the High Desert region of San Bernardino County. Known for its expansive desert landscapes and close-knit community, Hesperia offers a unique blend of suburban and rural living. The city’s ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) regulations are designed to accommodate its growing population while maintaining its distinctive character.

Geography and History

Hesperia is located in the Mojave Desert, near the San Bernardino Mountains. Established in the early 20th century, Hesperia has grown from a small agricultural community into a city known for its wide-open spaces and scenic views. Its history reflects a shift from farming to residential and commercial development, shaping its current landscape.

Local Economy

Hesperia’s economy is supported by several key sectors:

• Retail and Services: The city features various shopping centers and local businesses that serve residents and visitors.
• Healthcare: Local clinics and medical facilities contribute to the community's health and well-being.
• Manufacturing and Distribution: Hesperia hosts several warehouses and distribution centers, benefiting from its strategic location in the High Desert.
• Real Estate: The real estate market includes a range of housing options, from single-family homes to larger properties with ample land.

Popular Neighborhoods

Hesperia’s neighborhoods offer diverse living environments:

• Old Town Hesperia: Known for its historic charm and community-oriented events.
• Highland Palms: A residential area featuring larger lots and scenic views of the surrounding desert.
• Mesa: A neighborhood with a mix of newer developments and established homes.
• Desert Knolls: Characterized by its expansive properties and proximity to natural landscapes.

Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Hesperia includes a variety of housing options, reflecting its mix of suburban and rural influences. The city has experienced growth in housing demand, driven by its affordability compared to other areas in Southern California and its appealing desert setting.

ADU Regulations in Hesperia

Hesperia has established ADU regulations to support the development of accessory dwelling units while respecting the city’s unique characteristics:

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in all residential zones, with specific regulations to ensure compatibility with existing properties.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed, including conversions of existing structures and Junior ADUs (JADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sqft.
  • Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area or 1,200 sqft, whichever is less.
  • JADUs: Up to 500 sqft.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs are generally limited to 16 feet in height to maintain neighborhood scale and aesthetic.
• Parking: One additional parking space is typically required for detached ADUs, with exceptions for proximity to public transit or existing infrastructure.
• Owner Occupancy: As of recent regulations, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs, allowing flexibility for rental purposes.
• Approval Process: ADUs that meet certain criteria benefit from a streamlined approval process, including ministerial review for eligible projects.
• Multiple ADUs: In some residential zones, multiple ADUs may be permitted, subject to zoning regulations and design standards.
• Impact Fees: Impact fees for ADUs are designed to be reasonable, supporting the development of additional housing without placing excessive financial burden on homeowners.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to complement the primary residence and fit within the neighborhood’s character, ensuring visual harmony.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Hesperia is known for its desert landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities:

• Hesperia Lake Park: A popular recreational area offering fishing, picnicking, and various outdoor activities.
• Hesperia Golf and Country Club: A local landmark providing golf and community events in a scenic desert setting.
• Desert Community: Hesperia’s High Desert location offers unique opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, off-roading, and stargazing.

Hesperia’s ADU regulations are tailored to address the needs of its growing population while maintaining the city’s distinctive desert character. By implementing policies that support the development of accessory dwelling units, Hesperia aims to enhance housing options and accommodate its diverse community. The city’s approach to ADUs reflects its commitment to balancing growth with the preservation of its unique high desert environment.

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