ADU Rules: Glendale vs Lancaster
How do adu rules rules compare between Glendale, CA and Lancaster, CA?
Glendale has fewer restrictions than Lancaster.
Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Glendale regulates ADUs and JADUs under Glendale Municipal Code (GMC) §30.34.080, with the most recent ordinance amendment adopted by City Council on December 3, 2024 to address California HCD compliance concerns. ADUs and JADUs are reviewed ministerially without a public hearing, consistent with California Government Code §65852.2.
View full Glendale rules →Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
California law (Gov. Code §65852.2) requires cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Lancaster must comply with state standards for size, setbacks, and parking.
View full Lancaster rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Glendale | Lancaster |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | GMC §30.34.080 | - |
| Detached Height | 16 ft (18 ft near transit) | - |
| Attached Height | 25 ft, max 2 stories | - |
| Multifamily Detached New | Up to 2 per lot | - |
| Side/Rear Setback | 4 ft (new construction) | - |
| Max Size | - | 800 sq ft detached |
| Setbacks | - | 4 ft rear/side |
| Parking | - | None near transit |
| State Law | - | Gov. Code §65852.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Glendale FAQ
How many ADUs can I build on a Glendale multifamily lot?
GMC §30.34.080 implements state law allowing conversion ADUs within non-livable existing multifamily space (up to 25% of existing units) plus up to two detached new-construction ADUs per lot.
How tall can my Glendale detached ADU be?
Detached ADUs are limited to 16 feet under GMC §30.34.080, or up to 18 feet (plus 2 feet for a matching roof pitch) if the property is within a half-mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor.
Do I need a public hearing for a Glendale ADU?
No. GMC §30.34.080 requires ministerial review without a public hearing, consistent with California Government Code §65852.2.
Lancaster FAQ
Can I build an ADU?
Yes. California law requires all cities to allow ADUs on residential lots. Lancaster must process permits within 60 days.
Do I need to live on the property?
No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs under current California law.
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