ADU rules in Burbank, CA β also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances β cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Burbank regulates ADUs and JADUs under Burbank Municipal Code (BMC) Title 10, Article 6, Division 3 (Β§Β§10-1-620.3 through 10-1-620.7), as updated by Ordinance 23-4,002 effective December 8, 2023 to align with California Government Code Β§65852.2. Detached ADUs are capped at 1,200 sq ft, attached ADUs at 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft with an 800 sq ft floor, and JADUs at 500 sq ft.
On multifamily-zoned lots (R-2, R-3, R-4, MDR-3, MDR-4), state law as implemented by BMC Β§10-1-620 allows ADUs created within an existing multifamily structure in spaces not used as livable area (storage rooms, attics, basements, garages, passageways) capped at 25% of the existing unit count with a minimum of one conversion ADU permitted. In addition, up to two detached new-construction ADUs are allowed per multifamily lot, each up to 800 sq ft and 16 feet in height (18 feet within a half-mile of a major transit stop or where the existing building is two or more stories). Side and rear setbacks are 4 feet for new construction ADUs. Burbank applies ministerial review without a public hearing under Β§10-1-620.7, and no parking is required where the property is within a half-mile walking distance of public transit or another state exemption applies.
Unpermitted ADUs are violations of Burbank Municipal Code enforced by Community Development Code Enforcement, subject to stop-work orders, administrative citations, and required permitting or restoration. Renting an ADU for stays under 30 days violates state ADU law and Burbank's STR rules.
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