ADU rules in Los Angeles, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Los Angeles follows CA state ADU law (Gov Code §65852.2). Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. 4-ft side/rear setbacks. 16-ft height limit (18 ft near transit). Solar required. LADBS permits.
Los Angeles administers ADUs under CA Gov Code §65852.2 as updated through January 2025. Single-family lots: 1 ADU + 1 JADU. Multi-family: up to 2 detached ADUs plus conversion ADUs. Detached ADU max 1,200 sq ft; attached max 50% of primary. 4-ft side/rear setbacks. Height: 16 ft standard, 18 ft near major transit, 25 ft possible for new construction. ADUs <750 sq ft exempt from impact fees. Solar panels mandatory per CA energy code. LADBS permit fees: $3,000–$10,000 average.
Illegally converted structures without permits are subject to LADBS citation. Unpermitted ADUs are not legalized by the ordinance and must seek permits independently. No variances from Section 12.22 A.33 standards are permitted.
Los Angeles, CA
Anyone caring for injured native wildlife in Los Angeles must hold a California Department of Fish and Wildlife Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit under Fish and...
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles protects wild birds under LAMC §53.55 and emerging bird-safe building design guidance, layered atop California Fish and Game Code §3500-3516 and ...
Los Angeles, CA
Veterinary offices and small animal hospitals are allowed by-right in LA's C2 and C4 commercial zones under LAMC §12.13 and §12.14. Overnight boarding requir...
Los Angeles, CA
Pet grooming shops in Los Angeles need a city business tax registration and an LA County Department of Public Health animal-care facility permit. Mobile groo...
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Front-yard structures must comply ...
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles has no city ordinance regulating residential holiday inflatables. Size, lighting, and motor noise are not separately regulated, though general LA...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle adu rules.
See how Los Angeles'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.