ADU Permits: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do adu permits rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach processes ADU and JADU applications ministerially under Long Beach Municipal Code Section 21.45.400 and California Government Code Section 65852.2. Applications go through the Development Services Department with no public hearing or discretionary review.
View full Long Beach rules βLos 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 βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LBMC 21.45.400 | LAMC 12.22 A.33 |
| Review Type | Ministerial, no hearing | Ministerial, no hearing |
| Decision Deadline | 60 days | 60 days |
| Lead Agency | Development Services | LADBS Plan Check |
| Coastal Zone | CDP may be required | - |
| State Law | - | Cal. Gov Code 65852.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Do I need a public hearing for an ADU in Long Beach?
No. LBMC Section 21.45.400 and Cal. Gov Code 65852.2 require ministerial review by the Development Services Department without a public hearing, design review, or CEQA process.
How long does ADU plan check take in Long Beach?
The Building and Safety Bureau must approve or deny a complete application within 60 days under Cal. Gov Code 65852.2(b). Pre-approved plan sets further shorten plan check.
Do Long Beach Coastal Zone ADUs need extra permits?
Sometimes. Properties in the Coastal Zone require a Coastal Development Permit unless the project qualifies for an exemption under the certified Local Coastal Program.
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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