Garage Conversions: Burbank vs Norwalk
How do garage conversions rules compare between Burbank, CA and Norwalk, CA?
Burbank and Norwalk have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank allows converting an existing legal garage or accessory structure into an ADU under BMC 10-1-620.3, requiring removal of the garage door, permitting the existing nonconforming setback to be kept, and waiving replacement parking for the demolished or converted garage.
View full Burbank rules →Norwalk, CA
Los Angeles County
California law facilitates garage conversions to ADUs/JADUs. Norwalk cannot require replacement parking for converted garages in many cases.
View full Norwalk rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Norwalk |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC 10-1-620.3(C), (F), (H), (J) | - |
| State law | Cal. Gov. Code 65852.2 | - |
| Garage door | Must be removed and replaced with windows/entry door | - |
| Existing setback | Legal nonconforming setback may be kept on the existing footprint | - |
| Replacement parking | Not required when garage demolished/converted for the ADU | - |
| Conversion size | Greater of 850/1,000 sq ft or existing structure size; up to 150 sq ft added for ingress/egress | - |
| Driveway retention | Only if stalls are at least 18 ft x 8 ft 6 in | - |
| Parking | - | No replacement required (near transit) |
| JADU | - | Up to 500 sq ft |
| State Law | - | Gov. Code §65852.2 |
| Fire Sep. | - | May need upgrades |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Can I convert my garage into an ADU in Burbank?
Yes. Under BMC 10-1-620.3, an existing legally permitted garage or accessory structure may be converted into an ADU. The garage door must be removed and replaced with one or more windows and/or a residential entry door, and the existing legal nonconforming setback of the garage may be maintained on the existing footprint.
Do I have to replace parking if I convert my garage to an ADU in Burbank?
No. BMC 10-1-620.3(C)(2) provides that when an existing garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU, or is converted into an ADU, replacement parking for the main dwelling unit is not required, consistent with California Government Code Section 65852.2.
How large can a garage conversion ADU be in Burbank?
An existing accessory structure may be converted up to the greater of 850 square feet (one bedroom or less) or 1,000 square feet (more than one bedroom), or the square footage of the existing structure. The conversion may add no more than 150 square feet beyond the existing footprint, limited to ingress and egress.
Norwalk FAQ
Can I convert my garage to living space?
Yes. California law facilitates garage-to-ADU/JADU conversions. Norwalk must allow it and often cannot require replacement parking.
Do I need to provide parking?
Generally no, especially within 1/2 mile of public transit.
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