Know About The ADU Ordinance In Los Angeles
ADUs can be of different types, such as attached ADU, detached ADU, garage conversion ADU, and basement ADU. So, you can build one of these ADUs on your property while abiding by state law. If you are not aware of the state law on ADU construction then you can take the help of our professionals who will guide you with all the necessary information.
You can also get a free quote from Jay Remodeling if you want to hire a trusted remodeling contractor for your ADU construction project. Our professionals will make you aware of every aspect of the ADU ordinance that applies to your location. Moreover, they will take care of your property while building your ADU unit. So, let us understand the rules you need to follow while building an ADU unit in Los Angeles.
Rules for attached ADU
These ADUs share a wall with the main building and this is where it derives its name. Here are some rules to follow as you plan to have your attached ADU within the confines of your property.
Interior space
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You can have an interior space of 1200 square feet or half the area of the main building, whichever is smaller.
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No access to the ADU from inside the main building
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Despite being attached, to the main building, there is no access to the ADU from inside the main building. A person entering the ADU from inside the main building will have to step out and enter through a separate entrance
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Setback regulations
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The construction will have to adhere to setback regulations of 4 feet from the side & rear lot lines.
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Rules for detached ADU
Detached ADU is a separate house that has a bedroom, a kitchen unit, and a bathroom in it. It is not attached to the main residential unit. It can be built within a minimum distance of 4 feet from your main dwelling unit. It can be used as an office, guest house, or a dwelling unit for your parents. Moreover, your caretakers can reside in it.
- If your house fits the Los Angeles ADU ordinance, then you are eligible to build an ADU on your property. This ordinance is a set of regulations by the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning that allows you to build an ADU on your property.
- According to the state law, ADUs are allowed for the zone codes: R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-A, A-1, and A-2. This is also applicable to a zone where the law allows a single-family residence on a particular property.
- ADUs are allowed on residential property where a single-family residence is there. The minimum size for an ADU unit is 150 square feet and the maximum size allowed for an ADU is 1,200 square feet. Basically, an attached ADU should not exceed the half measurement of the main residential unit. However, this is not applicable for detached ones. You can build a detached ADU with a maximum measurement of 1,200 square feet as per the rules.
- A single ADU unit is permitted for a residential property.
- You should build an ADU that is 200 feet away from publicly dedicated open space to avoid fire hazards. In a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, there should be two forms of paved highway access that measures a minimum of 24 feet in width.
- ADU should not violate the neighborhood rules.
- A house owner does not need to stay on the property to build an ADU on it. However, there should be a main residential unit, which will qualify for building an ADU on that property.
- You can rent your ADU to tenants if you want. This will work as an additional income for you. You can also give your main residential unit for rent, which will help you to pay the construction costs or loans if you have taken any for building your house.
Know the parking rules
There are also some parking rules that you need to follow if you are building an ADU on your property.
- The property should not be situated in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
- There should be a provision for car share on the same block.
- Your locality comes under the category of architecturally and historically significant area.
- If you want to put a parking lot in your ADU then you can include two covered parking spaces that measure 8 ½ ft. x 18 ft. You should not use the corner or side yards for parking your vehicles.
Conclusion
ADUs can be very beneficial for you if you build them thoughtfully following a few tips and proper planning. However, the ADU construction can go completely wrong if you do not follow the rules and regulations in your location. Moreover, you have to plan your ADU unit that has maximum storage solutions so that it does not look too occupied or clumsy. So, you can take the help of our skilled professionals who will guide you with all the necessary information.
FAQs
How close to my home can I have a detached ADU?
You can have your detached ADU 10 feet away from the main home.
What are the important features of any ADU?
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Living space
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Sleeping area
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Kitchen
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Bathroom
Can I lease my ADU to tenants?
You are allowed to lease the ADU to tenants but only for 30 days or more.
What are the regulations for ADU taxation?
The valuation of the primary home is not assessed. You will only be taxed for the newly constructed ADU.