Delano reviews ADUs through its own city planning and building staff. As of October 2026, state ADU law applies in full: qualifying ADUs are approved ministerially, side and rear setbacks are capped at 4 feet, and units of 750 sq ft or less pay no impact fees.
Which ADU types suit Delano homes?
- Garage conversions, when a garage is legally built and in decent shape; as of October 2026, state law does not require replacing the lost parking.
- Junior ADUs inside the house, for a relative or caregiver, up to 500 sq ft.
- Detached units where the backyard has room and access.
Do I have to live on site?
Not for an ADU. As of October 2026, state law prohibits owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs. A junior ADU can carry that requirement only if it shares a bathroom with the main home.
How do you handle Delano's own rules?
We check Delano's current ADU ordinance, fees and submittal checklist with the city for every project and plan to state law as the floor. That avoids surprises from rules that differ from Bakersfield's.
What does a Delano ADU depend on?
- The condition and permit history of any existing garage.
- Sewer and water connection points.
- Electrical capacity for added cooling.
- School fees, which vary by district and unit size.
Thinking about the garage? Read garage conversion vs. new ADU.