Upland ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Upland is a renowned city in Southern California, known for its rich history and modern amenities. The city offers a mix of recreational activities and cultural events for residents and visitors alike.

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.

Upland Local Requirements

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

Common local considerations in Upland 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)

Upland, California, with a population of approximately 77,258, is a city located in San Bernardino County. Known for its historic charm and suburban feel, Upland offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The city’s approach to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) reflects its commitment to maintaining community character while addressing housing needs.

Geography and History

Upland is situated in the Inland Empire region, bordered by Claremont to the west and Ontario to the east. The city has a rich history, with many historic homes and buildings contributing to its unique character.

Local Economy

The economy in Upland is characterized by:

• Retail and Services: A variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and local businesses serve the community.
• Education: Upland is served by the Upland Unified School District, providing quality education to its residents.
• Healthcare: Several healthcare facilities and services are available within the city and nearby areas.

Popular Neighborhoods

Upland features several attractive neighborhoods:

• Historic District: Known for its charming historic homes and tree-lined streets.
• North Upland: Offers larger properties and is popular with families seeking a suburban feel.
• South Upland: Features more recent developments and is close to commercial amenities.

Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Upland is defined by:

• Single-Family Homes: Predominantly single-family residences with a range of architectural styles.
• Property Values: Generally moderate compared to other parts of Southern California, reflecting the city’s suburban appeal and accessibility.
• New Developments: There is growing interest in ADUs as a way to address housing demand and enhance property value.

ADU Regulations in Upland

Upland’s ADU regulations aim to provide flexibility for homeowners while preserving neighborhood character:

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in residential zones. Specific regulations apply depending on the zone and property size.
• Types of ADUs: Includes detached ADUs, attached ADUs, and conversions of existing structures like garages or basements.
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Typically limited to 1,200 sqft or 50% of the primary dwelling’s floor area, whichever is smaller.
  • Attached ADUs: Generally limited to 50% of the primary dwelling’s floor area or 1,200 sqft, whichever is smaller.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs are generally limited to a height of 16 feet.
• Parking: Generally requires one additional parking space per ADU. Reduced parking requirements may apply based on proximity to transit or other factors.
• Owner Occupancy: There is no specific owner-occupancy requirement for newly constructed ADUs.
• Approval Process: The city provides a streamlined approval process for ADUs that meet all zoning and design criteria, which helps simplify the permitting process.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to be compatible with the primary residence and the surrounding neighborhood. This includes considerations for architectural style, materials, and landscaping.
• Multiple ADUs: Typically, one ADU is allowed per residential lot. Additional units may be considered under specific circumstances or through a variance.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Upland is known for:

• Historic Sites: Several historic landmarks and buildings contribute to the city’s charm and character.
• Recreation: The city offers a variety of parks and recreational facilities, including the Upland Memorial Park and the San Antonio Heights area.
• Community Events: Local events and activities foster a sense of community and engagement among residents.

Upland’s ADU regulations are designed to support residential growth while maintaining the city’s historic and suburban character. With flexible guidelines and a streamlined approval process, Upland is well-positioned to accommodate additional housing needs and enhance the living experience for its residents.

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