ADU Rules: Topanga vs Torrance
How do adu rules rules compare between Topanga, CA and Torrance, CA?
Topanga and Torrance have similar restriction levels.
Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Topanga is an unincorporated CDP in Los Angeles County governed by LA County Code Title 22 §22.140.640 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units), most recently amended April 2024. Detached ADUs are capped at 1,200 sq ft; multifamily-lot ADUs have no maximum size under county rules. Topanga lies within the Santa Monica Mountains Coastal Zone, so a Coastal Development Permit also applies.
View full Topanga rules →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance regulates ADUs under TMC §92.2.10. Attached ADUs limited to 50% of primary dwelling; detached up to 1,200 sq ft. Maximum 16 feet height for detached, 25 feet for attached. Ministerial review within 60 days.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Topanga | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | LA County Code §22.140.640 | - |
| Single-Family | 1 ADU + 1 JADU per lot | - |
| Multifamily Detached | Up to 2 new + conversion ADUs | - |
| Coastal Permit | Required (Santa Monica Mtns LCP) | - |
| Side/Rear Setback | 4 ft (new construction) | - |
| Code Section | - | TMC §92.2.10 |
| Detached Max | - | 1,200 sq ft |
| Attached Max | - | 50% of primary dwelling |
| Max Height (detached) | - | 16 feet |
| Review Period | - | 60 days ministerial |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Topanga FAQ
Who regulates ADUs in Topanga?
Topanga is unincorporated, so LA County Department of Regional Planning regulates ADUs under LA County Code Title 22 §22.140.640, not a separate city ordinance.
Do I need a Coastal Development Permit for a Topanga ADU?
Yes. Topanga falls within the certified Santa Monica Mountains Local Coastal Program, so most ADU construction requires a Coastal Development Permit in addition to the building permit.
Can a Topanga multifamily lot add detached ADUs?
Yes. Under LA County Code §22.140.640, multifamily lots may add up to two detached new-construction ADUs plus conversion ADUs within non-livable space (up to 25% of existing units).
Torrance FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in Torrance?
Torrance regulates ADUs under TMC §92.2.10. Attached ADUs limited to 50% of primary dwelling; detached up to 1,200 sq ft. Maximum 16 feet height for detached, 25 feet for attached. Ministerial review within 60 days.
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Torrance?
Code Section: TMC §92.2.10. Detached Max: 1,200 sq ft. Attached Max: 50% of primary dwelling. Max Height (detached): 16 feet.
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