Moreno Valley ADUs: Building FAQ

Building FAQ

Free-standing ADU

Get answers to your ADU questions.

  • What is not considered an ADU?

    • A house/travel trailer (fifth wheel, motorized recreation vehicle, camper, tent trailer).
    • A tiny home that is on wheels and not on a permanent foundation.
    • An uninsulated garden shed (not designed as code compliant habitable space)
  • Do I need a permit to build an ADU?

    Yes, you are required to obtain a permit before you can begin construction on your ADU project. Review the applicable ADU checklist and other documents on the ADU Home page for further guidance.

  • Can I convert my garage to an ADU?

    Yes. Depending on your garage, the ADU is considered either Converted or Free-Standing.

  • Are solar panels required?

    Yes. If you build a free-standing ADU, State Law requires that it have solar panels.

  • Can I install a pre-fab ADU?

    Yes. With the proper permits.

  • What is a ADU Pre-Approved Construction Plan?

    Moreno Valley offers pre-approved construction plans. There are 7 plan styles available with various exterior options. Learn more...

  • Will my ADU receive a new Address?

    Yes, all ADUs except Jr ADUs will need a new address. Prepare and submit an Address Request online through SimpliCITY.

    The request must include a Plot Plan (dimensioned and drawn to scale) and shall detail the placement of the ADU on the property.

  • What are the fees for an ADU?

    The plan review & inspection/permit cost for an ADU depends on multiple factors. Costs vary depending on:

    • Type and size of ADU
    • Special Districts annexation fees
    • Fire sprinkler plan submittal & permit fees (if required)
    • Public Works Grading plan submittal & permit fees (if required)
    • Other outside agencies

    To get an accurate cost estimate, contact the Building & Safety, Fire, Public Works, Planning and Special Districts departments once you have a conceptual plan (size, location, square footage, etc.).

  • What other agencies have fees and/or approval processes?

    Please check fees with these entities (**varies based on your city location):

    Utility and Agency Contacts for ADU Construction
    Contact Service Phone
    Eastern Municipal Water District** Water & Sewer 951.928.3777 x 2081
    Box Springs Water District** Water only 951.653.6419
    Edgemont Community Services District** Sewer only 951.784.2632
    Riverside County Environmental Health Septic only 951.955.8980
    SoCal Gas Natural Gas 877.238.0092
    Southern California Edison (SCE)** Electricity 800.950.2356
    Moreno Valley Utilities ** Electricity 951.413.3500
    Moreno Valley Unified School District ** School Fees 951.571.7814
    Val Verde Unified School District ** School Fees 951.940.6100

     

Questions?

If you have additional questions, email permitcounter@moval.org .