Rules & Permits
Setback
A setback is the minimum required distance between a structure and the property line. Under California ADU law, detached ADUs need only a 4-foot side and rear setback — cities cannot require more — and a garage conversion staying inside the existing footprint generally needs no added setback.
The 4-foot state minimum is one of the biggest reasons ADUs fit on lots that couldn't accommodate a conventional addition. Front-yard setbacks still follow the underlying zoning.
Go deeper:Sacramento ADU rules & setbacks
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