Before submitting an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) permit application to the City of Los Angeles, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
1. Understanding ADU Types and Definitions:
- Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): A secondary residential unit on a property with an existing or proposed primary residence. It includes complete living facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A unit up to 500 square feet located entirely within a single-family residence. It may share bathroom facilities with the main house and must include an efficiency kitchen.
- Movable Tiny House (MTH): A transportable, residential structure between 150 and 430 square feet, meeting specific standards and registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
2. Zoning and Location Requirements:
- ADUs are permitted in zones that allow residential use and have an existing or proposed dwelling.
- JADUs are allowed in single-family zones with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling.
- MTHs are permitted in zones allowing residential use, subject to specific standards.
Go to zimas.lacity.org to check how your property is zoned. This will significantly influence what you can and cannot do.
3. Development Standards:
- Size: ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet, while JADUs are limited to 500 square feet.
- Setbacks: Newly constructed ADUs must have a minimum of 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
- Height: Detached ADUs are limited to two stories.
- Parking: One parking space is required for an ADU unless exemptions apply, such as proximity to public transit.
4. Design and Construction Considerations:
- Building Codes: ADUs must comply with all applicable building and residential codes.
- Fire Sprinklers: Not required if the primary residence doesn’t have them.
- Solar Panels: Required for newly constructed, detached ADUs.
5. Permitting Process:
- Plan Submission: Prepare detailed plans, including plot plans, floor plans, elevations, and structural details.
- Review: The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) will review plans for compliance.
- Inspections: Schedule inspections at various construction stages to ensure adherence to approved plans.
6. Utilizing Standard Plans:
LADBS offers a Standard Plan Program with pre-approved ADU designs to streamline the permitting process. You can access and download these plans from the LADBS.gov website.
7. Financial Considerations:
- Fees: Be prepared for plan check fees, permit fees, and potential impact fees.
- Grants and Incentives: Explore available programs that may offer financial assistance for ADU construction.
8. Additional Resources:
- LADBS ADU Page: Provides comprehensive information on regulations and the permitting process.
- LA County Planning: Offers guidelines and resources for ADU development.
By thoroughly understanding these aspects, you can navigate the ADU permitting process in Los Angeles more effectively.