ADU Rules: Altadena vs Inglewood
How do adu rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and Inglewood, CA?
Altadena and Inglewood have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Altadena is an unincorporated CDP in Los Angeles County governed by LA County Code Title 22 §22.140.640 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units), most recently amended April 2024. Single-family lots may add one ADU plus one JADU; multifamily lots may add up to two detached new-construction ADUs plus conversion ADUs in non-livable existing space.
View full Altadena rules →Inglewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Inglewood allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) per California state law (SB 9, AB 68). ADUs up to 800 sq ft are permitted by right on single-family lots. Junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft within the existing home are also allowed.
View full Inglewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Inglewood |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | LA County Code §22.140.640 | - |
| Single-Family | 1 ADU + 1 JADU per lot | - |
| Multifamily Detached | Up to 2 new (20 ft max) | - |
| WUI Fire Zone | Chapter 7A applies (hillside) | - |
| Side/Rear Setback | 4 ft (new construction) | - |
| Max Size (Detached) | - | 800 sq ft by right |
| JADU | - | Up to 500 sq ft within existing home |
| Setbacks | - | 4 feet from side and rear |
| Impact Fees | - | Waived under 750 sq ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Who regulates ADUs in Altadena?
Altadena is unincorporated, so LA County Regional Planning regulates ADUs under LA County Code Title 22 §22.140.640, not a separate city ordinance.
Do hillside or fire rules apply to Altadena ADUs?
Yes. Altadena's hillside neighborhoods are in LA County's Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, requiring Chapter 7A ignition-resistant construction and Fire Code §325 brush clearance. Hillside-grading provisions of Title 22 apply on slopes steeper than 10%.
How big can my Altadena ADU be?
Under §22.140.640, a detached ADU on a single-family lot may be up to 1,200 sq ft; multifamily-lot ADUs have no maximum size cap. JADUs are capped at 500 sq ft.
Inglewood FAQ
Can I build an ADU in Inglewood?
Yes. California law allows ADUs up to 800 sq ft by right on single-family lots. Junior ADUs up to 500 sq ft within the existing home are also permitted.
Do I need owner occupancy for an ADU in Inglewood?
Owner occupancy requirements have been relaxed under state law through 2025. Check current regulations as rules may change.
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