MOVEABLE (ADU) ACCESSORY DWELLING STRUCTURES PERMIT CHECKLIST
In the City of Riverside, any residential property can add at least one Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), per State law. Properties developed with single-family homes can also add a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) or a Moveable Accessory Unit (MADU).
A MADU ( Moveable Tiny House) Is Also Known As A Tiny House On Wheels
Installed As An ADU
A moveable accessory dwelling structure (MADU) may be installed on a property with a single-family home, subject to complying with Zoning Code standards and obtaining a building permit in Riverside, California.
What Is A MADU?
An MADU, sometimes called a Moveable Tiny Home, is a premanufactured independent living unit mounted on a chassis, licensed, and registered by the California DMV and is legal for movement on public highways, but not under its own power ( i.e., a recreational vehicle)
What Is An ADU?
An ADU, also known as a Second Dwelling, Granny Flat, or Mother-in-Law’s Quarters, is a completely self-contained housing unit located on the same lot as another home, called the primary dwelling. ADUs are considered accessory typically smaller than the primary dwelling and not the main use on the lot because they are not the main use on the lot.
ADUs/JADUs
As of January 1, 2020, all residential properties in the City are eligible to create at minimum one Accessory Dwelling Unit and one Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit in addition to the existing home or homes built on the property. Accessory Dwelling Units – often called granny flats, mother-in-law’s quarters, back houses or second dwellings – are small, self-contained living units located within, attached to or on the same lot as another dwelling or dwellings. The State Legislature views ADUs and JADUs as an important tool for increasing the supply of housing within existing neighborhoods while avoiding the impacts of large-scale new development. The City recently released an FAQ for property owners interested in learning more about placing an ADU or a JADU on their property.
Moveable ADU Accessorary Dwelling Structure Checklist
ADU Standard Plan -Submittal Checklist
Third Party Certification Agencies
When purchasing a prefabricated tiny house on wheels ( moveable tiny house) to be installed as an MADU in Riverside, make sure the manufacturer has built the tiny house to the NFPA 1192 or ANSI A119.5 standard. An independent third party agency including, but not limited to NOAH or RADCO will verify that the manufacturer is in compliance with these standards.
Dec. 9, 2025
