Baldwin Park, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Garage conversions in the City of Baldwin Park are handled through the ADU ordinance (Zoning Code 153.120.360). A separate dwelling unit may be created within the existing living area of a single-family dwelling or within the existing walls of an existing detached accessory structure such as a garage. For conversions, no minimum lot size applies, and the City's Planning Division ADU handout (rev. 8/28/23) states that no replacement parking is required when a garage is converted into an ADU. An ADU created entirely within existing walls is also exempt from the off-street parking requirement. ADUs and JADUs created within existing living area or existing accessory-structure walls are approved with a building permit and no further discretionary review by the Community Development Director, provided the unit has independent exterior access and side/rear setbacks are sufficient for fire safety. A garage conversion still must meet building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical code requirements and the ADU efficiency-unit standard of the California Building Code, and a deed restriction barring separate sale must be recorded. Converting a garage removes covered parking; the City does not require it to be replaced for an ADU conversion, distinguishing Baldwin Park's rule from older zoning that required covered parking replacement.