Manhattan Beach has special rules and regulations for ADU construction. We are allowed to create ADUs in all residential areas. Different rules apply for each zone. Only attached ADUs are allowed in some areas. Can also create detached ADUs in other areas. It is very important to follow the rules.
The size of the ADU in Manhattan Beach depends on the size of the plot. As per the rules, the minimum size of the ADU should be 150 square feet. The maximum size is decided according to the size of the main house. We will help determine the appropriate size for your plot.
Plot size and maximum ADU area
| Plot Size | Single-family (maximum area) | Duplex and multi-family (maximum area) |
| 4,000 | 1,000 sq ft | 600 sq ft |
| 6,000 | 1,300 sq ft | 800 sq ft |
| 8,000 | 1,600 sq ft | 1,000 sq ft |
| 12,000 | 2,000 sq ft | 1,400 sq ft |
| 16,000 | 2,500 sq ft | 1,800 sq ft |
Manhattan Beach has strict rules for the height of the DU. A one-storey ADU can have a maximum height of 16 feet. The maximum height of the two-storey ADU has been fixed at 24 feet. The height of the ADU should be less than the height of the main house. The slope of the roof should also be in accordance with the rules.
The rules for building coverage for ADUs in Manhattan Beach are quite clear. The total coverage of the main house and ADU should not exceed 60% of the plot. The coverage limit has been set separately for each plot. It is very important to have an open space. It is essential to have greenery and open spaces around the ADU.
The location of ADU should be chosen very carefully. The distance of the ADU from the main house should be at least 10 feet. Adequate distance will also have to be kept from the neighbor’s house. According to local regulations, the entrance to the ADU should not be on the road side. Parking arrangements will also have to be taken into consideration.
Single-Family Properties:
Duplex and Multi-family Properties:
There are certain rules for outward appearance. The color of the exterior walls of the ADU should match the main house. The design of windows and doors should be attractive. The design of the roof should resemble the main house. Exterior lighting should be appropriate.
Additional parking is required for ADU in Manhattan Beach. A car parking space is required for each ADU. The size of the parking lot should be at least 9×18 feet. When the garage is converted into an UD, it will have to be replaced by a new parking lot.
It is very important to follow the setback rules. A setback of at least 20 feet has to be kept on the front. A setback of 5 feet is required in the side yard. A setback of 10 feet will have to be left at the rear. These rules maintain the privacy of nearby houses.
The minimum area of the plot has been fixed in the RF zone. Special permission will have to be taken to build ADU in small plots. ADUs are easy to build in large plots. The plot size affects the design of the ADU.
Area of zone and minimum plot
| zone | Minimum Plot Area |
| R-15 | 4,000 sq. ft. |
| R-8 | 6,000 sq. ft. |
| R-5 | 8,000 sq. ft. |
| R-3 | 12,000 sq. ft. |
| R-1 | 16,000 sq. ft. |
The arrangement of utility connections is important for ADUs in Manhattan Beach. The electricity connection should be separate from the main house. The water connection also needs to be independent. The sewer line connection has to be connected properly. The gas line system should be safe.
Internet and phone lines will also have to be arranged. Construction of storm water drainage system is necessary. Special attention will have to be paid to the installation of HVAC systems. All connections must be established according to local codes.
It is necessary to follow stringent rules for fire safety. It is necessary to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. There should be a provision for emergency exit. The size of the windows should be suitable for emergency evacuation. The availability of fire extinguishers has to be ensured.
Manhattan Beach has special rules for short-term rentals to ADUs. The minimum rental period should be 30 days. There are some restrictions on business activities. The home office is allowed for limited activities. The renter must follow local regulations.
It is necessary to build an ADU according to the Construction Code. It is necessary to follow all the rules of the building code. All standards must be met at the time of inspection. Adherence to electrical and plumbing codes is essential. It is necessary to take care of safety standards.
All necessary documents must be submitted to obtain the permit. Review and approval of the plan is necessary. The time table for inspection has to be adhered to. We will provide you with full cooperation in the permit process. All fees have to be submitted on time.
Types and costs of permits
| Type of Permit | cost |
| Building Permits | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Electrical Permit | $200 – $400 |
| Plumbing Permit | $150 – $300 |
| Mechanical Permit | $100 – $250 |
| Demolition Permit | $75 – $150 |
| Landscaping Permit | $40 – $80 |
There are some basic property requirements for ADUs in Manhattan Beach. The plot size must meet the minimum requirements. The slope of the ground should not exceed 15%. Checking the groundwater level is necessary. Soil test report is necessary.
Special rules apply to setbacks on the front. A setback of at least 20 feet on the road side is required. A setback of 25 feet will have to be placed in front of the garage. Setbacks are required on both the roads in the corner plot. Space will have to be left for landscaping.
It is important to have a setback of at least 4 feet in the side yard. The back should have a minimum setback of 10 feet. The setback increases for the two-storey ADU. It is necessary to take care of the privacy of the neighbor. You can plant trees in the setback area.
It is very important to have an open space. The rear portion should have an open space of at least 400 square feet. There should be space for children to play. It is necessary to leave a suitable place for gardening. There should be a provision to maintain greenery.
The property must meet certain criteria to form an ADU in Manhattan Beach. The plot size should exceed the minimum requirements. The slope of the ground must be in safe range. Special approval will be required in areas prone to earthquakes and flooding.
The condition of the building should be good. Electricity and water supply should be adequate. Sewer connection must be available. There should be enough space for parking arrangements. Access to emergency vehicles must be ensured.
The size of Junior ADU cannot exceed 500 square feet. It should have a small kitchen. The bathroom can be shared with the main house. A separate entrance is necessary. It is constructed inside the main house.
Some ADU designs are already approved in Manhattan Beach. Using these designs speeds up the permit process. The standard size and layout have to be adhered to. The cost of construction can be easily estimated. Saves time and money.
The pre-approved ADU includes all the necessary features. They are constructed as per quality standards. Regular maintenance is easy. Special attention is paid to energy efficiency. The probability of price rise in future is high.
ADU Builders CA will fully cooperate with your ADU project. Our expert team will guide you. Ensure compliance of all rules and laws. Quality construction is our priority. Contact us today and start building the ADU of your dreams.
Fire sprinklers are only required if the primary dwelling also has them.
ADUs typically require a minimum setback of 4 feet from property lines.
Separate utility connections are optional but not mandatory for most ADUs.
The checklist includes design review, site plans, structural plans, permits, and financing.
You need site plans, floor plans, construction details, and a permit application.
Inspections typically include foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and final review.
Work with licensed professionals to design and construct your ADU to code.
You may need to revise and resubmit plans to the Manhattan Beach planning office.
Submit complete and accurate documents and work with professionals to avoid delays.
ADUs under 750 sq. ft. are exempt from impact fees.
Yes, it includes checking structure, utilities, and obtaining conversion permits.
Yes, ADUs must meet height, size, and setback requirements, and their design should complement the primary dwelling.
Yes, but you need to ensure the ADU fits within allowable lot coverage and setback rules.
ADUs must comply with California Building Codes, including foundation, framing, insulation, plumbing, and electrical requirements.
Yes, ADUs must comply with California Energy Code (Title 24) and include energy-efficient windows, insulation, and appliances.
You must submit a revised plan to the Manhattan Beach Building Department and may incur additional fees or inspections.
Yes, ADUs near high-noise areas (e.g., busy roads) must include soundproofing measures such as double-glazed windows.
Yes, you can appeal to the city’s Planning Commission or seek adjustments to meet requirements.
Lot coverage varies by zoning but generally allows for up to 50% of the lot to be developed, including the primary dwelling and ADU.
