California law (Gov. Code §65852.2) requires cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Lancaster must comply with state standards for size, setbacks, and parking.
California Government Code §65852.2 requires all cities to allow ADUs on single-family and multi-family residential lots. State law sets minimum standards that cities cannot restrict below: up to 800 sq ft for detached ADUs, 4-foot rear/side setbacks, no parking requirement within 1/2 mile of transit. Lancaster may have additional local standards within state limits. Junior ADUs (JADUs) up to 500 sq ft within existing structure also allowed. No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs (per recent state law). ADU permit processing limited to 60 days. Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft.
Cities cannot deny conforming ADU applications. Unpermitted ADU construction: standard building code enforcement.
Lancaster, CA
California law facilitates garage conversions to ADUs/JADUs. Lancaster cannot require replacement parking for converted garages in many cases.
Lancaster, CA
Lancaster allows small sheds without permits (typically under 120 sq ft). Larger structures require building permits and must meet setback requirements.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle adu rules.
See how Lancaster's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.