ADU rules in Los Angeles County, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
LA County's ADU Ordinance (amended October 2024) allows accessory dwelling units in all residential zones of unincorporated areas. Applications go through EPIC-LA and are reviewed by the Department of Regional Planning. Pre-approved plans are available.
LA County updated its ADU Ordinance in October 2024, effective August 28, 2025, aligning with California Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22. One ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) are permitted per lot in all residential zones. Detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 square feet. JADUs are limited to 500 square feet and must be within the primary dwelling or attached garage. ADUs are exempt from owner-occupancy requirements per state law. No setback beyond 4 feet for rear and side yards is required for ADUs up to 16 feet tall. Impact fees are waived for ADUs under 750 square feet. Parking requirements are eliminated for ADUs within half a mile of public transit. Applications are submitted through EPIC-LA and reviewed by the Department of Regional Planning. Pre-approved ADU plans are available to expedite the process.
Building an ADU without permits subjects the owner to building code enforcement, stop-work orders, and potential demolition orders. Fines for unpermitted construction start at $100 per day.
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