GetYourPermit

ADU permit process in Santa Ana, California

Last verified August 29, 2026

Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error

This guide includes the portions of the City permit process that passed our evidence review. Confirm project-specific requirements with the City before submitting.

Where to apply

Department
Planning and Building Agency

Step by step

  1. 1

    Evaluate garage-conversion feasibility

    Research project and contact Planning Feasibility understanding

  2. 2

    Prepare construction documents

    Engage design professional to prepare layout and construction documents Construction document set

  3. 3

    Submit plans for City review and corrections

    Submit construction documents Address City comments and corrections Approved plans after comments are addressed

  4. 4

    Pay fees and obtain Building Permit

    Pay required fees Homeowner or licensed contractor obtains permit Building Permit

  5. 5

    Complete routine construction inspections

    Request/complete City inspections during construction Routine inspection results

  6. 6

    Obtain all final inspection approvals

    Complete final inspections Completed ADU after final approvals

What you need to submit

  • Construction documents
  • Project cover sheet, site/floor/roof, foundation/framing, mechanical/electrical plans and elevations
  • JADU owner-occupancy covenant — only in some cases

Project-specific next step

Build your Santa Ana permit report

Choose your ADU type and size to bring the City process, researched permit fees, and early construction budget into one planning report.

Start my permit report

Sources for this guide

Additional city reference pages