This comprehensive fact sheet and guide provide detailed information on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) in the City of Goleta, California, based on the City’s Municipal Code (Chapter 17.44, Article V, Sections 17.44.230–17.44.290, accessible via eCode360) and applicable California State law as of April 27, 2025. Designed for homeowners, developers, and residents, this guide outlines development standards, permitting processes, combination options, and key considerations to help you navigate ADU and JADU projects in Goleta.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to ADUs and JADUs
- Key Definitions
- Where ADUs and JADUs Are Permitted
- Development Standards for ADUs and JADUs
- Permitting Process
- Allowable Combinations of ADUs and JADUs
- Additional State Law Provisions
- Common Questions and Answers
- Resources and Contacts
1. Introduction to ADUs and JADUs
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) are secondary housing units on residential lots, offering affordable and flexible housing options. In Goleta, ADUs and JADUs are regulated by Chapter 17.44, Article V of the Goleta Municipal Code (GMC) and California Government Code (GC) Sections 66310–66342, which prioritize streamlined approvals to address the state’s housing shortage. ADUs can be attached to or detached from the primary residence, while JADUs are smaller units within a single-family home. Both are permitted through a ministerial (non-discretionary) process, making them easier to build than traditional housing.
This guide reflects updates from Senate Bill (SB) 477 (2024), which renumbered state ADU laws, and incorporates guidance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) 2025 ADU Handbook. It aims to help Goleta residents understand how to add ADUs or JADUs to their properties while complying with local and state regulations.
2. Key Definitions
- Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): A secondary dwelling unit with complete independent living facilities (kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area) located on the same lot as a primary dwelling. ADUs can be attached, detached, or converted from existing spaces (e.g., garages, attics). Maximum size varies by type (up to 1,200 sq. ft. for Ordinance ADUs, 800 sq. ft. for some State ADUs).
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A unit up to 500 sq. ft. contained entirely within a proposed or existing single-family dwelling, including attached garages. JADUs may share sanitation facilities with the primary residence and require owner occupancy unless owned by a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
- Primary Dwelling: A single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot, existing or proposed, that serves as the main residence.
- State ADU/JADU: Units approved under GC § 66323(a), exempt from most local zoning standards, with specific size, setback, and height allowances.
- Ordinance ADU: Units approved under Goleta’s Municipal Code, subject to local standards unless preempted by state law.
- Movable Tiny House (MTH): A portable residential structure (150–430 sq. ft.) on a chassis, not considered a building under zoning or building codes, subject to specific ADU standards.
3. Where ADUs and JADUs Are Permitted
ADUs and JADUs are permitted in Goleta in zones allowing residential uses, per GMC § 17.44.230(B):
- Single-Family Zones: R-1, R-2, and Planned Residential Development (PRD) zones with a single-family dwelling.
- Multifamily Zones: Residential Multifamily (RM) and other zones allowing multifamily dwellings.
- Mixed-Use Zones: Zones permitting residential uses alongside commercial or other uses.
- Requirement: A proposed or existing single-family or multifamily dwelling must be on the lot. JADUs are limited to single-family dwellings.
Note: ADUs and JADUs are not permitted in zones where residential uses are tied to non-residential purposes (e.g., caretaker units in industrial zones). In the Coastal Zone, additional permitting applies (see Section 7.4).
4. Development Standards for ADUs and JADUs
Goleta’s ADU regulations balance state mandates with local standards. Below are the key development standards for State ADUs/JADUs, City Ordinance ADUs, and Movable Tiny Houses.
4.1 State ADUs and JADUs (GC § 66323)
State ADUs and JADUs, per GC § 66323(a)(1–4), are exempt from most local zoning, design, and development standards (e.g., Floor Area Ratio, open space, parking), except for building code and health/safety requirements. Four types are defined:
- One ADU and One JADU within a Single-Family Dwelling (GC § 66323(a)(1)):
- Location: Within the proposed or existing single-family dwelling or accessory structure (e.g., garage, shed).
- Size: No specific limit for ADUs; JADUs max 500 sq. ft. Up to 150 sq. ft. expansion allowed for ingress/egress (e.g., entryway, window).
- Setbacks: Side and rear setbacks sufficient for fire/safety, as determined by the Goleta Building and Safety Division.
- Access: Exterior access required; JADUs may have internal connections if sharing a bathroom.
- JADU Requirements: Efficiency kitchen (e.g., microwave, hotplate, counter, storage). Owner occupancy required for the primary dwelling or JADU, with a recorded deed restriction (unless owned by a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization).
- One Detached New-Construction ADU on a Single-Family Lot (GC § 66323(a)(2)):
- Size: Max 800 sq. ft.
- Setbacks: 4 ft. side and rear; no front setback required if it doesn’t preclude an 800 sq. ft. ADU (GC § 66321(a)(3)).
- Height: 16 ft., or 18 ft. within ½ mile walking distance of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor (20 ft. if roof pitch aligns with primary dwelling) (GC § 66321(b)(4)).
- Parking: None required.
- Multiple ADUs in Multifamily Non-Livable Spaces (GC § 66323(a)(3)):
- Location: Within existing multifamily dwelling spaces not used as livable areas (e.g., storage rooms, attics, garages).
- Number: Up to 25% of existing units (minimum one ADU).
- Standards: Must comply with state building codes; exempt from local zoning (e.g., parking, open space).
- Multiple Detached ADUs on Multifamily Lots (GC § 66323(a)(4)):
- Number: Up to 8 detached ADUs for existing multifamily dwellings (not exceeding existing units); up to 2 for proposed multifamily dwellings.
- Setbacks: 4 ft. side and rear; no modification required if existing building has smaller setbacks.
- Height: 18 ft., or 20 ft. if roof pitch aligns and within ½ mile of transit.
- Parking: None required.
4.2 City Ordinance ADUs
Ordinance ADUs, per GMC § 17.44.240, are subject to local standards unless preempted by state law. Key standards include:
- Size:
- Attached ADU: Max 1,200 sq. ft. or 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area, whichever is less, but at least 850 sq. ft. (1,000 sq. ft. if more than one bedroom) (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(1)).
- Detached ADU: Max 1,200 sq. ft.
- Minimum: 150 sq. ft. (efficiency unit), plus code-compliant closet and bathroom.
- Height:
- Max 2 stories (excluding basements).
- Zoning height limits apply (e.g., 30 ft. in R-1 zones, per GMC § 17.16.030), unless preempted by state law for State ADUs.
- Setbacks:
- Side and Rear: 4 ft. for new construction or additions; no additional setbacks for conversions of existing structures (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(8)).
- Front: Per underlying zoning, but cannot preclude an 800 sq. ft. ADU (GC § 66321(a)(3)).
- Parking (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(12)):
- One space per ADU, unless:
- Within ½ mile walking distance of public transit (bus or train stop).
- Within an existing primary dwelling or accessory structure.
- Within a historic district or near a car-share vehicle.
- No replacement parking required if a garage/carport is demolished concurrently with ADU construction.
- Location: Detached ADUs must be behind the primary dwelling, except on through lots or when converting front yard accessory structures (GMC § 17.44.240(D)(3)).
- Design: Must comply with objective zoning standards (e.g., lot coverage, architectural compatibility), but not subjective standards requiring personal judgment (GC § 66313(i)).
- Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ): Ordinance ADUs in VHFHSZ may require fire sprinklers or offsite improvements (e.g., street widening), but State ADUs are exempt from these unless required for the primary dwelling (GC § 66314(d)(12)).
4.3 Movable Tiny Houses (MTHs)
MTHs are portable ADUs (150–430 sq. ft.) on a chassis, regulated under GMC § 17.44.240(F):
- Standards: Subject to GMC § 17.44.240(C) provisions, except those for buildings/structures (e.g., building code, fire sprinklers).
- Setbacks: 4 ft. side and rear.
- Parking: One space, unless exempt (see above).
- Number: One per lot, combinable with other ADUs/JADUs.
5. Permitting Process
ADUs and JADUs in Goleta are approved ministerially (no public hearings) within 60 days of a complete application, per GC § 66317(a) and GMC § 17.44.240(C)(2). If not acted upon within 60 days, the application is deemed approved.
Steps to Apply
- Pre-Application Consultation:
- Contact Goleta’s Planning and Environmental Review Division (805-961-7500 or planning@cityofgoleta.org) to confirm zoning, standards, and combination options.
- Use ZIMAS (Goleta’s online mapping tool) to verify zoning and transit proximity.
- Prepare Plans:
- Submit architectural plans, site plans, and specifications meeting state and local standards.
- For JADUs, include a deed restriction for owner occupancy (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(8)).
- Submit Application:
- File with the Goleta Building and Safety Division (130 Cremona Dr, Suite B, Goleta, CA 93117).
- Include fees (building permit, plan check; impact fees may apply, see Section 7.2).
- For Coastal Zone projects, obtain a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) (see Section 7.4).
- Review and Approval:
- Staff reviews for compliance with GMC Chapter 17.44 and state law.
- Corrections, if needed, are provided in writing within 60 days.
- Construction and Inspection:
- Obtain building permits and schedule inspections.
- Certificate of Occupancy issued upon completion.
Concurrent Permitting
- ADUs/JADUs can be permitted concurrently with new single-family or multifamily dwellings or additions (GMC § 17.44.250).
- Example: Propose a new duplex with two detached ADUs in one application, ensuring floor area limits allow an 800 sq. ft. detached ADU or 850/1,000 sq. ft. attached ADU.
6. Allowable Combinations of ADUs and JADUs
Goleta’s expanded combination rules, per GMC § 17.44.250 and GC § 66323, allow multiple ADUs and JADUs on a lot, as summarized in Tables 1 and 2 of the Goleta ADU Ordinance (mirroring LA’s ZA Memo 143). Key combinations include:
Single-Family Lots
- State ADU + JADU: One ADU (within the dwelling or accessory structure, with 150 sq. ft. expansion) and one JADU (max 500 sq. ft.) within the single-family dwelling.
- State Detached ADU + Ordinance Attached ADU: One detached State ADU (max 800 sq. ft., 4 ft. setbacks) plus one attached Ordinance ADU (max 1,200 sq. ft. or 50% of primary dwelling).
- State ADU + JADU + Ordinance ADU: Combine a detached State ADU, a JADU, and an attached Ordinance ADU, provided zoning standards are met.
- SB 9 Projects: For Senate Bill 9 Two-Unit Developments (e.g., duplex), add up to two detached State ADUs or one attached ADU, one JADU, and one detached ADU per lot.
Multifamily Lots
- Multiple Attached State ADUs: Convert non-livable spaces (e.g., storage, garages) into ADUs, up to 25% of existing units (minimum one).
- Multiple Detached State ADUs: Up to 8 detached ADUs for existing multifamily dwellings (not exceeding existing units) or 2 for proposed multifamily dwellings.
- State + Ordinance Combo: Pair multiple attached/detached State ADUs with one attached Ordinance ADU.
Restrictions
- Single-family and multifamily ADU options cannot be combined on the same lot (e.g., no single-family ADU options if multifamily ADUs are chosen) (HCD 2025 Handbook, pp. 19–20).
- JADUs are limited to single-family dwellings and require owner occupancy with a deed restriction.
7. Additional State Law Provisions
7.1 Owner Occupancy
- ADUs: No owner-occupancy requirement, per AB 976 (2023). Rentals must be for terms of 30 days or longer (GC § 66315).
- JADUs: Owner occupancy required for the primary dwelling or JADU, unless owned by a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization. A deed restriction must be recorded (GC § 66333).
7.2 Impact and Connection Fees
- Impact Fees (GC § 66314(d)(5)):
- Waived for ADUs/JADUs under 750 sq. ft.
- For ADUs ≥ 750 sq. ft., fees are proportional to the primary dwelling’s square footage (single-family) or average unit size (multifamily).
- Exempt from Goleta’s Affordable Housing Linkage Fee and Park Fees.
- School district fees may apply for ADUs > 500 sq. ft. (California Education Code § 1760).
- Connection Fees (GC § 66314(d)(6)):
- Proportionate to the ADU’s burden (based on square footage or drainage fixture units).
- JADUs are not considered separate dwelling units for utility connection fees.
7.3 Nonconforming Conditions
- Nonconforming zoning conditions (e.g., existing structures not meeting current setbacks) do not require correction unless they pose a health/safety risk (GC § 66322(b)).
- Unpermitted ADUs built before January 1, 2018, are protected from zoning/building standard enforcement unless substandard per Health and Safety Code § 17920.3 (HCD 2025 Handbook, pp. 15, 33).
7.4 Coastal Zone Requirements
- Goleta’s Coastal Zone is subject to the California Coastal Act (Public Resources Code § 30000). ADUs require a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) with discretionary review, including public hearings (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(2)).
- Additional parking may be required to avoid impacts on public access.
- Contact Goleta’s Coastal staff (planning@cityofgoleta.org) for guidance.
8. Common Questions and Answers
Q1: What zones allow ADUs and JADUs in Goleta?
A: ADUs are permitted in R-1, R-2, PRD, RM, and mixed-use zones with a proposed or existing single-family or multifamily dwelling. JADUs are limited to single-family dwellings in these zones (GMC § 17.44.230(B)).
Q2: How is ADU/JADU square footage calculated?
A: Use “Gross Floor Area” per the California Building Code: the area within the interior perimeter of exterior walls, excluding vent shafts and courts, but including corridors, stairways, and closets. MTHs have distinct size provisions (150–430 sq. ft.) (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(3); HCD 2025 Handbook, p. 39).
Q3: Can I build an ADU on a substandard lot?
A: Yes, state law prohibits minimum lot size requirements for State ADUs (GC § 66314(b)(1)). Local zoning cannot deny a State ADU based on lot size.
Q4: Do I need parking for an ADU?
A: Parking is not required for State ADUs or JADUs, or for Ordinance ADUs if within ½ mile of transit, in existing structures, or near car-share vehicles. Otherwise, one space per Ordinance ADU is required (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(12)).
Q5: Can I convert an existing ADU to another use?
A: Yes, but conversion is subject to zoning and building codes at the time of the proposed change (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(19)).
Q6: Are ADUs allowed in the Coastal Zone?
A: Yes, but a Coastal Development Permit is required, involving discretionary review and potential parking requirements (GMC § 17.44.240(C)(2)).
Q7: Do fire sprinklers apply in VHFHSZ?
A: State ADUs are exempt from sprinkler requirements unless required for the primary dwelling. Ordinance ADUs in VHFHSZ may require sprinklers (GC § 66314(d)(12); GMC § 17.44.240(C)(4)).
Q8: Can I sell an ADU separately?
A: Generally, no, but GC § 66341 allows separate conveyance to a qualified buyer if built by a qualified nonprofit corporation (GMC § 17.44.240(H)(3)).
9. Resources and Contacts
This fact sheet and guide provide a roadmap for building ADUs and JADUs in Goleta, leveraging the city’s progressive regulations and state law to create affordable housing. Whether you’re adding a backyard cottage, converting a garage, or planning a multifamily project, Goleta’s streamlined process and flexible combination rules make it easier than ever. Start your project today by contacting Goleta’s Planning team!
.jpg)
