Accessory Structures in Whittier, CA (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Whittier, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
The City of Whittier permits ADUs in zones that allow residential uses under Municipal Code Section 18.10.020(I), implementing California Gov. Code 66310-66342. Detached new-construction ADUs are limited to 1,200 sq ft (1,500 sq ft on lots 20,000 sq ft+) and 16 ft height; ministerial approval within 60 days.
Whittier Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
In the City of Whittier, a one-story detached storage shed of 120 sq ft or less needs no building permit (location reviewed by Planning). Under zoning Section 18.10.030, sheds under 120 sq ft may not exceed 12 ft in height, and detached non-dwelling accessory buildings are allowed in the rear one-third of the lot.
Whittier Shed & Accessory Building Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Whittier allows converting a garage to an ADU or junior ADU under Municipal Code Sec. 18.10.020(I), and per state law, off-street parking spaces lost to a garage conversion do not have to be replaced. Junior ADUs (up to 500 sq ft) must be entirely within the existing single-family residence or attached garage and carry owner-occupancy and deed-restriction requirements.
Whittier Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Whittier treats a carport as a covered parking structure under its zoning code. Carports must satisfy residential building-location and yard rules in Municipal Code Sec. 18.10.030 (no structures in required yards except as allowed; 5 ft minimum between buildings). A carport may also be converted to an ADU under Sec. 18.10.020(I), with no parking replacement required.
Whittier Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Whittier has no standalone 'tiny home' ordinance. A permanent tiny home on a foundation is treated as an ADU under Municipal Code Sec. 18.10.020(I) (a manufactured home qualifies as an ADU). The city also allows one detached 'accessory living area' under Sec. 18.10.020(H), but it may have NO kitchen and may not be used as a rental or permanent residence.
Whittier Tiny Homes & Accessory Living Areas
Some RestrictionsLooking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Whittier city rules.
Accessory Structures in Los Angeles County →