ADU Permits: El Monte vs Pasadena
How do adu permits rules compare between El Monte, CA and Pasadena, CA?
El Monte and Pasadena 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 →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena processes ADU and JADU applications ministerially under Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) §17.50.275 and California Government Code §65852.2. Updated ADU regulations took effect May 20, 2024 under Ordinance No. 7420. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) issued review findings on February 26, 2025 directing further compliance updates. Standard ADUs receive ministerial review with a 60-day decision deadline once the application is complete.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - | PMC §17.50.275 |
| Updated | - | Ordinance 7420, eff. May 20, 2024 |
| Review | - | Ministerial, 60-day cap |
| Rear Setback | - | 10 ft (new construction) |
| Zones | - | RS, RM with single-family use |
| Historic Districts | - | Not visible from right-of-way |
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.
Pasadena FAQ
How long does ADU review take in Pasadena?
California Gov. Code §65852.2(b) caps ministerial review at 60 days from a complete application. Pasadena Planning and Community Development processes ADU permits without a public hearing when plans meet the objective standards in PMC §17.50.275.
Can I build an ADU in a Pasadena Landmark District?
Conversion ADUs within existing structures are always allowed. New attached or detached ADUs in Landmark Districts under PMC Chapter 17.62 are permitted only if not visible from the public right-of-way per PMC §17.50.275.
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