ADU Permits: El Monte vs Los Angeles
How do adu permits rules compare between El Monte, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
El Monte and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
ADU and JADU applications in El Monte are reviewed ministerially within 60 days through the City's CSS online permitting portal. Building, fire, and life-safety review still applies.
View full El Monte rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles processes ADU and JADU applications ministerially under LAMC Section 12.22 A.33 and California Government Code Section 65852.2. Applications go through LADBS plan check, with no public hearing, discretionary review, or CEQA process required.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Review type | Ministerial | - |
| Statutory deadline | 60 days | - |
| Submission | CSS Portal online | - |
| Contractor insurance | City must be named additional insured | - |
| Fee schedule | FY25-26, effective 7/1/2025 | - |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 12.22 A.33 |
| Review Type | - | Ministerial, no hearing |
| Decision Deadline | - | 60 days |
| Lead Agency | - | LADBS Plan Check |
| State Law | - | Cal. Gov Code 65852.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
How do I submit an ADU permit application in El Monte?
Applications are filed through the City's CSS Portal — Online Permitting Application linked from the Permits page at ci.el-monte.ca.us/618/Permits, or in person at City Hall, 11333 Valley Blvd.
What happens if the City doesn't act in 60 days?
Under Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2(b), if the City fails to act on a complete ADU/JADU application within 60 days, the application is deemed approved.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a public hearing to build an ADU in Los Angeles?
No. Under LAMC 12.22 A.33 and Cal. Gov Code 65852.2, ADU applications are reviewed ministerially by LADBS without a public hearing, design review, or CEQA process.
How long does ADU plan check take in Los Angeles?
LADBS must approve or deny a complete application within 60 days of submission. Pre-approved Standard Plans further shorten plan check by skipping structural review.
Which Los Angeles departments review an ADU permit?
LADBS leads plan check, with sign-offs from City Planning, the Bureau of Engineering for sewer capacity, and LADWP for water and power service.
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