Garage conversion rules in Santa Monica, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Santa Monica allows garage conversions to ADUs under SMMC §9.31.025. Replaced parking spaces do not need to be provided. Conversions of existing structures are exempt from setback requirements.
Under SMMC §9.31.025, when a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted to an ADU, the lost off-street parking spaces do not need to be replaced. Conversions of legally established structures are exempt from setback requirements. Guest houses permitted before March 31, 2017 on single-family parcels may be used for home-sharing if the host resides on-site. The ADU must not be a Rent Control Bootleg Unit per §9.04.18.075. JADUs may be located within an attached garage. Parking for the ADU is one space per bedroom, with exemptions within 1/2 mile of public transit. The process is ministerial with no development fees.
Unpermitted garage conversions are code violations. The conversion must receive ministerial approval and comply with building code requirements for habitable space.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle garage conversions.
See how Santa Monica's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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