Chino, CA City Guide | About Living in Chino - Homes.com

Chino ADU Permit & Building Guide

Building an ADU in Chino is an excellent way to expand your living space, create long-term rental income, and increase the value of your property. The City of Chino offers clear ADU regulations designed to make it easier for homeowners to build legally and efficiently, while maintaining the integrity of local neighborhoods. With guidance from Apex Homes, homeowners can navigate the process with ease, from feasibility and design to permitting and construction.

 

ADU Regulations in Chino

Chino follows California’s state ADU law while adding local standards that define what can be built on single-family and multi-family lots. For single-family properties, homeowners may construct one detached or attached ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU). For multi-family properties, up to two detached ADUs may be added in addition to conversions of existing non-livable spaces.

Detached ADUs in Chino may be up to 1,200 square feet in size, providing ample space for a one- or two-bedroom layout. Setbacks must match those required for the main dwelling at the front of the lot, while interior side and rear setbacks are a minimum of four feet. Detached ADUs may be one story and up to 16 feet in height. Each ADU must be located at least six feet away from the primary residence to maintain safety and access requirements.

These standards offer flexibility for homeowners while ensuring ADUs blend seamlessly into existing residential areas.

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The Chino ADU Permitting Process

To obtain an ADU permit in Chino, start by confirming your property’s zoning designation and selecting a design that complies with the city’s ADU standards. Choosing a pre-approved ADU plan, if available, can help streamline the review process and reduce design costs. Once your design is selected, prepare a full submittal package that includes your site plan, elevations, floor plans, structural details, and Title 24 energy documentation.

Applications are submitted through the Chino Permit Center, and if your plans meet all city requirements, permits are typically issued within two to four months. After approval and payment of applicable fees, construction may begin. Working with an experienced ADU builder like Apex Homes can further simplify this process and minimize delays.

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Pre-Approved ADU Plans in Chino

Chino offers pre-approved ADU floor plans that make it easier and faster for homeowners to obtain permits. These designs have already been reviewed by city officials for compliance with local building codes and development standards. Homeowners only need to verify site-specific details such as setbacks, utilities, and lot conditions.

By selecting a pre-approved ADU plan, homeowners can enjoy faster approvals, reduced design costs, and peace of mind knowing their unit meets all city requirements. To view Chino’s available pre-approved ADU layouts, contact the Chino Building and Safety Division or Apex Homes for guidance.

495 1B1B

Compact
Compact. Clever. Complete
495 sq.ft. 1 Bed 1 Bath
495 1B1B
$168,500
View Product Plan

749 2B2B

Most Popular
Double. Dynamic. Delightful.
749 sq.ft. 2 Bed 2 Bath
749 2B2B
$278,000
View Product Plan

991 3B2B

Essential
Spacious. Smart. Sophisticated.
991 sq.ft. 3 Bed 2 Bath
991 3B2B
$350,000
View Product Plan

Why Build an ADU in Chino?

Chino’s growing demand for flexible housing makes ADUs a smart investment. A well-designed ADU can generate consistent rental income, providing homeowners with a long-term revenue stream while increasing overall property value. Beyond financial benefits, ADUs in Chino offer families the flexibility to create private living spaces for aging parents, adult children, or long-term guests—perfect for multigenerational households.

Chino supports ADU development with clear local standards and streamlined permitting processes, allowing homeowners to build efficiently and with confidence. Detached or attached units can be customized to fit your lot and lifestyle while complying with city regulations, making the process straightforward and stress-free.

For personalized guidance, Apex Homes offers free consultations with ADU experts. Let us help you unlock the full potential of your property with a thoughtfully designed ADU in Chino today!


FAQs

Can I build an ADU on a vacant lot?

No. ADUs must be located on a property with an existing or proposed primary dwelling. By definition, an accessory dwelling unit is an attached or detached structure that provides complete, independent living facilities and is secondary to a main home.

What facilities are required for a detached ADU?

Detached ADUs must include complete independent living facilities, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. Each ADU must include a full kitchen and bathroom.

Do I need to provide parking for a new detached ADU?

Yes. The City of Chino requires one on-site parking space for each new detached ADU.

Can ADUs have separate utility connections?

Yes. An ADU may have separate meters for gas, electricity, and water, and may also have an independent sewer connection from the main dwelling.

Can I rent out my ADU?

Yes. Long-term rentals are allowed for ADUs in Chino, providing homeowners with an excellent opportunity for consistent rental income.