ADU Impact Fees: Long Beach vs Pasadena

Do I pay impact fees on a Long Beach ADU under 750 sq ft?

No. Cal. Gov Code 65852.2(f) prohibits local impact fees on ADUs under 750 sq ft. Only plan check, building permit, and inspection fees apply.

Do I need a separate water meter for my Long Beach ADU?

No. Long Beach Water cannot require a separate water or sewer meter. A separate meter is optional and billed at the standard hookup rate if requested.

What if Long Beach charges me illegal ADU fees?

Appeal to the Building Official and file a complaint with the California HCD ADU Ombudsperson, which enforces Cal. Gov Code 65852.2(f) statewide.

Are ADU impact fees waived in Pasadena?

Yes for ADUs of 900 sq ft or less — Pasadena exempts these from Residential Impact Fees (RIFs) and the Construction Tax. ADUs under 750 sq ft also receive the full state-law exemption from all local development impact fees under Cal. Gov. Code §65852.2(f)(3). ADUs 900 sq ft or larger pay reduced fees effective July 17, 2025.

How do Pasadena Standard Plans help with fees?

ADUs built using Pasadena's pre-approved Standard Plans qualify for additional waivers on plan-check and several permit fees beyond the RIF and Construction Tax exemption. This is the lowest-cost path to permitting in Pasadena.