Lancaster vs West Covina
How do garage conversions rules compare between Lancaster, CA and West Covina, CA?
Lancaster and West Covina have similar restriction levels.
Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
California law facilitates garage conversions to ADUs/JADUs. Lancaster cannot require replacement parking for converted garages in many cases.
View full Lancaster rules →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina allows garage conversions to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or Junior ADUs (JADUs) under state law and the City's Development Code. Converted garages do not require replacement parking. Each lot may have one ADU and one JADU. ADUs cannot have separate addresses or utilities.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lancaster | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | No replacement required (near transit) | - |
| JADU | Up to 500 sq ft | - |
| State Law | Gov. Code §65852.2 | - |
| Fire Sep. | May need upgrades | - |
| Replacement Parking | - | Not required |
| Max Per Lot | - | 1 ADU + 1 JADU |
| Driveway Width | - | Max 20 ft if converted |
| Code | - | WCMC Ch. 26 Div. 11 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lancaster FAQ
Can I convert my garage to living space?
Yes. California law facilitates garage-to-ADU/JADU conversions. Lancaster 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.
West Covina FAQ
Can I convert my garage to a living space in West Covina?
Yes. File a Second Unit Review (SUR) Application with the Planning Division. The conversion must match the primary unit's exterior and have a separate entrance. Replacement parking is not required.
Can my ADU have its own address and utilities?
No. In West Covina, ADUs and JADUs may not have separate addresses or utilities from the main residence.
Compare other topics
See how Lancaster and West Covina compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool