ADU rules in Santa Monica, CA β also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances β cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Santa Monica regulates ADUs under SMMC Β§9.31.025. Maximum size is 650 sq ft on lots up to 6,000 sq ft or 800 sq ft on larger lots. No development fees. Ministerial approval process.
Under SMMC Β§9.31.025, ADUs and JADUs are allowed on any parcel zoned for residential use with an existing or proposed dwelling. Maximum size is 650 sq ft for lots up to 6,000 sq ft, or 800 sq ft for larger lots. The second story cannot exceed the first story area. Minimum 4-foot setbacks from rear and interior side property lines for new construction. No setbacks for conversions of existing structures. No development fees for ADUs or JADUs. Approval is ministerial (no public hearing). ADUs are exempt from parcel coverage and floor area calculations. Rentals must be 30+ days (no short-term rentals except as permitted under SMMC Chapter 6.20). Fire sprinklers not required if primary residence doesn't have them.
Unpermitted ADUs may face code enforcement action, fines, and orders to remove or bring into compliance. Rental violations may result in additional penalties.
Santa Monica, CA
Backyard chickens are allowed in Santa Monica with restrictions. Roosters are prohibited in residential areas due to noise. Livestock keeping is restricted b...
Santa Monica, CA
Dogs must be on a leash in all public areas in Santa Monica. Off-leash dogs are only permitted in designated dog parks. The city enforces leash laws through ...
Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica does not impose breed-specific legislation. All dogs must be licensed per CA Food & Ag Code Β§30500+. Dangerous dog determinations are based on i...
Santa Monica, CA
Feeding wildlife in Santa Monica public parks and beaches is discouraged. The city's property maintenance code addresses nuisance conditions from wildlife at...
Santa Monica, CA
Portable fire pits on private property in Santa Monica must comply with South Coast AQMD regulations. Burns are prohibited on spare-the-air days. Beach fires...
Santa Monica, CA
Properties in fire hazard zones near Santa Monica must maintain defensible space per CA PRC Β§4291. Santa Monica itself is largely urban/coastal with limited ...
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 Santa Monica'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.