Garage Conversions: Burbank vs Compton
How do garage conversions rules compare between Burbank, CA and Compton, CA?
Burbank has fewer restrictions than Compton.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank allows conversion of existing garages and accessory structures to ADUs or JADUs under BMC §10-1-620.3, consistent with California Government Code §65852.2. No replacement parking is required when an existing garage is converted to an ADU, and the existing structure's setbacks are grandfathered for the conversion footprint.
View full Burbank rules →Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Compton allows garage conversions to ADUs under Ordinance No. 2341. No replacement parking is required when converting a garage to an ADU under California Government Code.
View full Compton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Compton |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC §10-1-620.3; Cal. Gov Code §65852.2 | - |
| Replacement Parking | Not required by state law | Not required |
| Existing Setbacks | Grandfathered for conversion | - |
| ADU Over Garage | 20 ft to plate / 23 ft to roof | - |
| Permit Required | Yes — building permit | - |
| Fire Rating | - | 1-hour for common walls |
| Sound Rating | - | STC 50 minimum |
| Code Basis | - | Ord. 2341 / CA Gov Code 65852.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
If I convert my Burbank garage to an ADU, do I need a replacement parking space?
No. Cal. Gov Code §65852.2 and BMC §10-1-620.3 prohibit Burbank from requiring replacement parking when an existing garage is converted to an ADU or JADU.
Can I build a new ADU on top of my Burbank garage?
Yes. Under BMC §10-1-620.3, a detached ADU built on top of a garage or other accessory structure may be up to 20 feet to top of plate and 23 feet to top of roof or architectural feature.
Do I still need a permit for a Burbank garage-to-ADU conversion?
Yes. Burbank Community Development requires a building permit for any change of use from garage to habitable space; the planning review remains ministerial under §10-1-620.7.
Compton FAQ
Can I convert my garage into living space in Compton?
Compton allows garage conversions to ADUs under Ordinance No. 2341. No replacement parking is required when converting a garage to an ADU under California Government Code.
What permits do I need for a garage conversion in Compton?
Replacement Parking: Not required. Fire Rating: 1-hour for common walls. Sound Rating: STC 50 minimum. Code Basis: Ord. 2341 / CA Gov Code 65852.2.
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