Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $1,500–$6,000 Impact fees are waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft of interior livable space per SB 543 (2026).
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety →

What's Required in Los Angeles

  • Interior livable space definition now excludes wall thickness per 2026 CA state law.
  • Maximum size of 1,200 sq ft for detached ADUs or 50% of the primary dwelling for attached units.
  • Must be located on a lot with an existing or proposed residential unit.
  • No additional parking required if within 0.5 miles of public transit.
  • Solar panels required for newly constructed detached ADUs per Title 24 energy code.
  • Fire sprinklers only required if they are required for the primary residence.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Los Angeles

1

Step 1: Standard Plan Option

Optional: Select an 'LA ADU Standard Plan' to significantly reduce plan check time.

2

Step 2: BuildLA Application

Submit the application and plans through the BuildLA portal.

3

Step 3: Zoning Review

Planning Dept verifies density, setback, and transit-proximity criteria.

4

Step 4: Permit Issuance

Pay building and sewer connection fees (Impact fees waived if <750 sq ft).

5

Step 5: Inspection Sequence

Schedule standard inspections (Foundation, Framing, Rough MEP, Final).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the LADBS Standard Plan Program offers dozens of designs that bypass full structural review.
On most single-family lots, you can build one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) under 500 sq ft.
Detached ADUs are generally allowed up to 16–18 feet in height depending on transit proximity.