Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are transforming the way Los Angeles homeowners create space, generate rental income, and house extended family members. But before you begin any construction, the most important step is obtaining an ADU permit in Los Angeles.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting your ADU permit (Los Angeles), including requirements, costs, timelines, and how the experts at Sierra Construction & Design can make the process easy and stress-free for you.
What Is an ADU Permit and Why Is It Essential?
An ADU permit is an official document issued by the City or County of Los Angeles that allows you to legally build a second residential unit on your property. Whether you plan to construct a detached ADU, convert a garage, or create a unit within your home, you need a permit to do so legally.
Without a permit:
- Your ADU can be classified as unpermitted construction
- You may face fines or be forced to remove the structure
- The unit may not qualify for insurance or appraisals
With a legal ADU permiT, you ensure your project meets all zoning, safety, and building codes, which adds value and legal protection to your home.
Do You Need a Permit for an ADU - Los Angeles?
Yes, every ADU project in requires a permit. This includes:
- Backyard detached ADUs
- Garage-to-ADU conversions
- Junior ADUs (JADUs)
- Second-story additions for residential use
If your goal is to build a livable, rentable, or family-ready space, obtaining an ADU permit is not optional. It is the foundation for building legally and safely.
Requirements for an ADU Permit in Los Angeles
Before you apply for an ADU permit, make sure your property meets the basic requirements set by Los Angeles zoning and building regulations.
Property and Zoning Requirements:
- Your property must be zoned for residential use
- The lot must accommodate setbacks (typically 4 feet from the sides and rear)
- Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet in most cases
- Multiple ADUs may be allowed on multi-family lots
Parking and Utility Considerations:
- No parking is required if your home is within half a mile of public transit
- Utility connections (gas, water, electricity) must be updated as needed
- Fire sprinklers are not required unless the primary residence has them
If you are unsure whether your property qualifies, Sierra Construction & Design can verify zoning and eligibility for you as part of our ADU permit services.
How to Apply for an ADU Permit
Getting your adu permit (Los Angeles) requires multiple steps. It’s important to follow the process carefully to avoid delays or rejections.
Step 1: Research and Pre-Planning
- Use zoning tools like ZIMAS to confirm your property’s zoning
- Decide whether you want a detached unit, garage conversion, or internal ADU
Step 2: Choose a Design Approach
- Use custom architectural plans, or
- Select from the Standard Plans Program offered by LADBS
Choosing a pre-approved standard plan can reduce both costs and approval time.
Step 3: Prepare Application Documents
You will need:
- Architectural drawings
- Site plans and floor plans
- Structural calculations
- Title 24 energy compliance documents
Step 4: Submit Application to LADBS
- Go to the ePlanLA portal to upload all required materials
- Pay the initial application and plan check fees
Step 5: Undergo Plan Review
- LADBS will review your submission and return any required corrections
- Make revisions and resubmit your plans as needed
Step 6: Receive Your ADU Permit
Once approved, you can receive your ADU permit and begin construction.
How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Los Angeles?
The total cost for an adu permit in Los Angeles depends on your project size and type. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
Using a pre-approved standard plan can reduce the need for full architectural services, potentially saving thousands.
How Long Does It Take to Get an ADU Permit in - Los Angeles?
Permit approval timelines can vary based on the complexity of your project and the accuracy of your application.
Project Type | Estimated Timeline |
Standard Plan (Pre-approved) | 4 to 6 weeks |
Custom Architectural Plans | 2 to 4 months |
Delays typically occur when:
- Required documents are missing
- Zoning issues or overlays are overlooked
- Revisions are submitted late
Working with a team experienced in adu permit processing can significantly reduce these delays.
Optional Programs That Can Support Your ADU Project
Los Angeles offers the ADU Accelerator Program, which connects homeowners with qualified older adult renters. While this program does not affect your ADU permit directly, it may influence how you design and use your unit.
For more information, visit ADU Accelerator Program.
Common Mistakes When Applying for an ADU Permit (Los Angeles)
Avoid these issues that can slow down or jeopardize your permit approval:
Submitting incomplete documentation
- Not checking for local zoning overlays
- Assuming City and County rules are the same
- Skipping utility coordination or fire requirements
At Sierra Construction & Design, we help you avoid these common pitfalls by handling the entire permitting process from beginning to end.
Let Sierra Construction & Design Handle the ADU Permit Process for You
Navigating the maze of Los Angeles building codes, zoning regulations, and permit applications can feel overwhelming even discouraging. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Sierra Construction & Design, we specialize in full-service ADU development, and that includes managing every step of the ADU permit process on your behalf.
“Don’t worry about getting lost in complicated regulations! Our Accessory Dwelling Unit Services include handling all local building codes and permit requirements.”, Sierra Construction.
What We Handle So You Don’t Have To:
- Verifying zoning and site eligibility
- Preparing and submitting architectural plans
- Handling Title 24 compliance reports
- Coordinating with LADBS and other city departments
- Navigating setback rules, utility tie-ins, and historical overlays
- Managing resubmissions and corrections during plan check
- Securing final permit approval so you can start building without stress
We’ve successfully completed ADU projects across a wide range of Los Angeles neighborhoods, and we understand the nuanced code requirements that differ block by block, from hillside properties in Mount Washington to tight-lot garage conversions in Culver City.
Whether you’re adding a rental unit, building a home for your parents, or investing in long-term property value, we ensure your ADU project is legally compliant, cost-efficient, and timeline-optimized, from blueprint to permit to build.
FAQ
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Los Angeles?
Yes, all ADU projects in Los Angeles require a permit. Whether it’s a garage conversion or a detached unit, permitting ensures compliance with zoning, safety, and building regulations.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Los Angeles?
It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks using pre-approved plans, or up to 4 months for custom designs. Timeline depends on plan accuracy, zoning complexity, and LADBS review workload.
How much does an ADU permit cost in Los Angeles?
Permit costs range from $1,000 to $3,000, not including impact fees or design services. Total expenses vary by project size, location, and whether utility upgrades are required.
Can I use standard plans for my ADU permit application?
Yes, Los Angeles offers pre-approved standard plans. Using one can reduce both architectural costs and approval time, making your ADU permit process faster and more affordable.