Garage conversion rules in West Covina, CA — sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions — govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
West Covina allows garage conversions to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or Junior ADUs (JADUs) under state law and the City's Development Code. Converted garages do not require replacement parking. Each lot may have one ADU and one JADU. ADUs cannot have separate addresses or utilities.
West Covina permits garage conversions to ADUs and JADUs consistent with California Government Code Sections 65852.2 and 65852.22 and the City's Development Code (Chapter 26, Division 11). When converting a garage, carport, or covered parking structure to an ADU, replacement of lost off-street parking is not required. Setbacks and height limits do not apply to conversions of legally established structures. The entrance must be separate from the primary dwelling unit entrance. Exterior materials, colors, roof pitch, and architecture must match the primary unit. If the garage is converted, the driveway cannot be wider than 20 feet. Each lot may have no more than one ADU and one JADU. ADUs and JADUs within West Covina may not have second addresses or separate utilities from the main residence. A Second Unit Review (SUR) Application must be filed with the Planning Division. Example plans for garage conversions are available from the City.
Unpermitted garage conversions are subject to code enforcement, fines, and orders to restore the structure. Building without permits may result in stop-work orders and require retroactive permitting.
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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 West Covina's garage conversions rules stack up against other locations.
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