ADU Permits: Pasadena vs Topanga
How do adu permits rules compare between Pasadena, CA and Topanga, CA?
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 →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
No data available yet for Topanga.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pasadena | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
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.
Topanga FAQ
No FAQs available.
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