Santa Monica, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Replacement parking required?
- No
- Setback for converted existing garage
- None required for existing footprint
- Max footprint expansion (front setback)
- 150 sq ft for ingress/egress only
- Multi-unit conversion limit
- 25% of unit count or 1 ADU, whichever is greater
- Approval process
- Ministerial, no discretionary review
Summary
Garages may be converted to ADUs by-right in Santa Monica, and no replacement parking is required when a garage or carport is demolished or converted to create an ADU or JADU.
a. Converted ADUs. One ADU is permitted per parcel with a proposed or existing single-unit dwelling if all of the following apply: i. The ADU is within: (1) the proposed space of a single-unit dwelling; (2) existing space of a single-unit dwelling; or (3) an existing attached or detached accessory structure. ... No setback shall be required for an existing living area or accessory structure or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure that is converted to an ADU or to a portion of an ADU. ... L. Parking. 2. No Replacement. When parking areas including, but not limited to, garages, carports, covered parking structures, or uncovered parking spaces, are demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or JADU or converted to an ADU or JADU, the eliminated off-street parking spaces are not required to be replaced.
Full Breakdown
Section 9.31.025(I)(1)(a) allows an ADU within an existing attached or detached accessory structure (including garages) for single-unit parcels. For multi-unit dwellings, garages and other non-livable spaces (storage rooms, boiler rooms, basements) may be converted to ADUs up to 25% of the existing unit count or one ADU, whichever is greater. Critically, Section 9.31.025(L)(2) expressly states that parking spaces eliminated when garages, carports, or covered parking structures are converted to or demolished for an ADU do not need to be replaced. No setback is required for the existing footprint of a converted accessory structure.
Violations & Fines
If the conversion does not meet ADU building standards (habitability, size, etc.), the City may deny the permit or require corrections within the 60-day review period.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I convert my garage to an ADU, do I need to build a new parking space?
Can I convert a detached garage to an ADU?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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Garage Conversions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle garage conversions.