Accessory Structures in Pasadena, CA (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Pasadena, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Pasadena allows ADUs under California state law (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881). Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted. The city has streamlined its permitting process to comply with state mandates.
Pasadena ADU Regulations
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Pasadena processes ADU and JADU applications ministerially under Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) §17.50.275 and California Government Code §65852.2. Updated ADU regulations took effect May 20, 2024 under Ordinance No. 7420. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) issued review findings on February 26, 2025 directing further compliance updates. Standard ADUs receive ministerial review with a 60-day decision deadline once the application is complete.
Pasadena ADU Permits Under PMC §17.50.275 and Ordinance 7420
Few RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Pasadena exempts ADUs under 750 square feet from all impact fees per California Government Code §65852.2(f)(3) and extends the exemption to ADUs up to 900 square feet from the city's Residential Impact Fees (RIFs) and Construction Tax. Reduced citywide RIFs and Construction Tax for larger ADUs took effect July 17, 2025. ADUs using Pasadena's Standard Plans qualify for additional permit-fee waivers.
Pasadena ADU Impact Fees: Under 900 sq ft Waiver and 2025 RIF Reductions
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Pasadena cannot require owner occupancy on standard ADUs permitted after January 1, 2020 because California Government Code §65852.2(a)(6), made permanent by AB 976 (2023), preempts local owner-occupancy mandates. Junior ADUs (JADUs) under PMC §17.50.275 still require owner occupancy of either the primary dwelling or the JADU because they share walls and utilities, memorialized by deed restriction. AB 1033 condo conversion has not been adopted by Pasadena as of the date of this article.
Pasadena ADU Owner-Occupancy: State Preempts; JADU Requires Owner
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Pasadena ADUs permitted after January 1, 2020 must be rented for terms of 30 days or more under California Government Code §65852.2(a)(7). Short-term rental of ADUs is generally not available because PMC §17.50.296 (Ordinance No. 7317) requires the host to occupy the property as a primary residence for at least nine months per year, and prohibits vacation rentals citywide. ADUs covered by Pasadena's Measure H rent stabilization (built before Feb 1, 1995, or otherwise within scope) may also have rent-cap obligations.
Pasadena ADU Rental Rules: 30-Day Minimum; STR Permit Path Limited
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Pasadena allows sheds under 120 square feet without a building permit. Larger sheds require permits. All sheds must comply with zoning setbacks and height limits.
Pasadena Shed & Accessory Structure Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to ADUs in Pasadena are streamlined under California law. Converting existing garage space to living quarters does not require replacement parking. Building permits are required.
Pasadena Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Pasadena require a building permit and must comply with zoning setback and lot coverage standards per Title 17 Zoning Code. Design must be consistent with the residential character of the neighborhood.
Pasadena Carport Construction Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on wheels are not permitted as permanent dwellings in Pasadena. Fixed tiny homes on a foundation may qualify as ADUs under CA Gov Code 65852.2. Detached ADUs limited to 17 ft ridgeline height and one story.
Pasadena Tiny Home & Small Dwelling Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Pasadena city rules.
Accessory Structures in Los Angeles County →