ADU Rules: El Monte vs Long Beach
How do adu rules rules compare between El Monte, CA and Long Beach, CA?
El Monte and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte allows one ADU and one JADU on single-family lots, with detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Standards follow Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2 / §65852.22 and are codified in the El Monte Zoning Code (adopted 6-21-22, amended 5-14-25).
View full El Monte rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach follows CA state ADU law (Gov Code §65852.2). Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft, 4-ft side/rear setbacks, 16-ft height limit. Pre-approved plans available.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| ADU permit | Ministerial (no hearing) | - |
| Max detached ADU | 1,200 sq ft | - |
| Max JADU | 500 sq ft | - |
| Min side/rear setback | 4 ft | - |
| Max height (detached) | 16 ft | - |
| Review timeline | 60 days (state-mandated) | - |
| State Law | - | CA Gov Code §65852.2 |
| Max Size | - | 1,200 sq ft detached / 50% attached |
| Setbacks | - | 4 ft side/rear |
| Height | - | 16 ft detached / 25 ft attached |
| Fees | - | ADUs <750 sq ft exempt from impact fees |
| Pre-Approved Plans | - | Available from Long Beach Planning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I build both an ADU and a JADU on my single-family lot in El Monte?
Yes. Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2(e)(1)(A) and the City's ADU Program Guidelines allow one ADU plus one JADU on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family residence.
Do I need a public hearing?
No. State law requires the City to act on a complete ADU application ministerially within 60 days, without discretionary review or a hearing (Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2(b)).
Long Beach FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in Long Beach?
Long Beach follows CA state ADU law (Gov Code §65852.2). Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft, 4-ft side/rear setbacks, 16-ft height limit. Pre-approved plans available.
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Long Beach?
State Law: CA Gov Code §65852.2. Max Size: 1,200 sq ft detached / 50% attached. Setbacks: 4 ft side/rear. Height: 16 ft detached / 25 ft attached.
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