ADU Rules: Topanga vs West Covina
How do adu rules rules compare between Topanga, CA and West Covina, CA?
Topanga and West Covina 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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina allows 1 ADU and 1 JADU per lot. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Height: 16 ft detached, 25 ft attached. 4-foot setbacks. No separate utilities or addresses from the main residence.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Topanga | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | - |
| Max Size | - | 1,200 sq ft (detached) |
| Separate Utilities | - | Not allowed |
| Height (Detached) | - | 16 ft |
| Code Section | - | Dev. Code Ord. 2519 |
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).
West Covina FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in West Covina?
West Covina allows 1 ADU and 1 JADU per lot. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Height: 16 ft detached, 25 ft attached. 4-foot setbacks. No separate utilities or addresses from the main residence.
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in West Covina?
Max Size: 1,200 sq ft (detached). Separate Utilities: Not allowed. Height (Detached): 16 ft. Code Section: Dev. Code Ord. 2519.
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