Two Detached ADUs in Morgan Hill (AB 956, 2027)
Plan Two ADUs in Morgan Hill: Free Site Assessment
Morgan Hill ADU rules today (2026)
From January 1, 2027, state law (AB 956) requires cities, including Morgan Hill, to approve up to two detached ADUs on a lot with a single-family home. Morgan Hill already allows a detached ADU, an attached ADU and a JADU on the same lot, with ADU sizes that vary by zoning district. Here is how the new law and the current local ADU rules fit together.
- Units allowed now: one detached ADU, one attached ADU and one JADU on a single-family lot (Municipal Code Ch. 18.84, last amended by Ord. 2362 on February 19, 2025).
- Size by district: the city’s ADU code allows 1,200 sq ft in RE 10, 1,000 sq ft in RE 2.5, 900 or 1,000 sq ft in RE 1 (by bedrooms), and 850 sq ft for one bedroom or 1,000 sq ft for two or more in other districts. A JADU can be up to 500 sq ft.
- Height: the city’s ADU code allows 16 ft for a detached ADU that does not meet side and rear setbacks, and 18 ft plus 2 ft within half a mile of a major transit stop. Attached ADUs can be 25 ft or the district limit, whichever is less. We confirm the limit for other detached cases with the city.
- Setbacks: 4 ft side and rear minimum, with no setback needed for conversions or same-footprint rebuilds. The district front setback applies.
- Parking: one space per ADU unless a state exemption applies. None for a JADU, and no replacement parking.
- Process: ministerial review with a 60-day decision.
- Pre-approved plans: detached designs in the city’s ADU Accelerator gallery are pre-reviewed for building code. Changes are mostly limited to materials, and site-specific review is still required.
What changes on January 1, 2027
AB 956 requires Morgan Hill to approve up to two detached, new-construction ADUs on a lot with a single-family home. Each of the two may be limited to 800 sq ft of living space, local height limits can still apply, and side and rear setbacks can be no more than 4 ft. Where two detached ADUs are built, a JADU on the same lot does not have to be approved. Owners in HOAs also gain protections.
Morgan Hill allows one detached ADU today, alongside an attached ADU and a JADU. AB 956 lets an owner build two detached units instead. Current district sizes run from 850 to 1,200 sq ft, all above the 800 sq ft cap the city may set for each of two units. Because the city may also keep its height limits, the 16 ft rule for units that do not meet setbacks will matter. Morgan Hill will need to update its ordinance, and we confirm current rules as it does.
Recent Axiom work
Professional photos from a recent Axiom Renovation full remodel and addition in Los Gatos.
Planning two detached ADUs on a Morgan Hill lot
- Special zones: historic, hillside, high fire hazard and flood zones may need an extra application or limit what can be built.
- Sprinklers: the city’s ADU code does not require sprinklers in an ADU if they are not required in the main home.
- Zoning district: size limits change by district, so we confirm the district before choosing plans.
- Electrical: two units plus the main home usually need a load calculation and often a service upgrade.
- Deed restriction: before the permit, a recorded restriction confirms no separate sale, size limits and no rentals under 30 days.
Building ADUs in Morgan Hill with Axiom
Axiom Renovation designs, permits and builds ADUs in Morgan Hill. Read our Morgan Hill ADU builder page, see our Morgan Hill service area, or start with the AB 956 overview. Neighbors can read the guides for San Martin and Gilroy.
Process
Our ADU Process
Step 1
Initial Consultation
We begin with a thorough initial consultation to understand your needs, assess your space, and discuss your vision, budget, and timeline.
Step 2
Planning and Design
At Axiom Renovation, we understand that the planning and design phase of an ADU project is crucial to its success. Our dedicated project managers will work closely with you to understand your goals, design ideas and budget for the project.
Step 3
Material Selection
We guide you through selecting high-quality materials that fit your design and budget, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.
Step 4
Demolition and Preparation
Careful demolition and preparation work are performed to ready the space for construction, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a clean work environment.
Step 5
Construction and Installation
Our skilled craftsmen handle the construction phase, including obtaining permits, scheduling appointments, and the actual construction and installation with precision, building the new space according to the approved design.
Step 6
Electrical and Plumbing Work
Licensed professionals conduct all electrical and plumbing work, ensuring everything is up to code and seamlessly integrated into the new ADU.
Step 7
Painting and Finishing
We pay close attention to detail during the painting and finishing stage, ensuring all surfaces are properly prepared and beautifully finished.
Step 8
Fixture and Appliance Installation
We expertly install all fixtures and appliances, ensuring they function correctly and fit perfectly with the overall design.
Step 9
Final Touches and Clean-Up
Final touches are added, and a thorough clean-up is performed, leaving your new space pristine and ready for use.
Step 10
Final Walkthrough and Client Satisfaction
We conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets your expectations and address any remaining concerns, ensuring your complete satisfaction.
Morgan Hill Two-ADU FAQ
Can I build two detached ADUs in Morgan Hill?
From January 1, 2027, AB 956 requires the city to approve up to two detached, new-construction ADUs on a lot with a single-family home, if the project meets objective standards. Today Morgan Hill allows one detached ADU, one attached ADU and one JADU.
How large can each ADU be in Morgan Hill?
Today the size depends on the zoning district, from 850 sq ft up to 1,200 sq ft in RE 10. Under AB 956, the city may limit each of two detached ADUs to 800 sq ft of living space.
How tall can a detached ADU be in Morgan Hill?
The city’s ADU code allows 16 ft for a detached ADU that does not meet side and rear setbacks and 18 ft plus 2 ft near major transit. We confirm the limit for each lot with the city.
Does Morgan Hill require parking for an ADU?
One space per ADU, unless a state exemption applies, such as being within half a mile of transit. A JADU needs no parking, and a converted garage needs no replacement parking.
Does a fire or flood zone affect an ADU in Morgan Hill?
It can. Historic, hillside, high fire hazard and flood zones may need an extra application or limit what can be built, so we check the lot early.
Who builds two-ADU projects in Morgan Hill?
Axiom Renovation designs, permits and builds ADUs in Morgan Hill and is planning two-unit projects for 2027. Call 408-702-2022, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
Sources: AB 956 (Quirk-Silva), signed September 29, 2026, effective January 1, 2027, as summarized by Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck and California YIMBY. This page is general information, not legal advice. Local rules change; we confirm current requirements with the city for every project.