Zoning Regulations in Beverly Hills

Special zoning regulations apply to ADU construction in Beverly Hills. Permission to build ADUs in residential areas is allowed. Can make an additional unit with the main house. The size and height of the ADU are decided as per zoning rules. Special restrictions may also apply in some areas.

Zoning Regulations

The minimum size of the ADU can be  150 square feet and a maximum of  1,200 square feet. The size of the ADU is decided according to the size of the main house. The total area of the ADU cannot exceed  50%  of the main house. This rule maintains the balance of the surrounding buildings.

Lot Size Table

Lot Size Single-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed) Duplex and Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed)
4,500 1,100 sq ft 750 sq ft
7,000 1,400 sq ft 950 sq ft
9,500 1,700 sq ft 1,150 sq ft
14,500 2,300 sq ft 1,550 sq ft
19,500 2,900 sq ft 1,950 sq ft

ADU Height Limitations

ADUs in Beverly Hills can have a maximum height of  up to 16 feet. The height of the two-storey ADU is allowed up to 25 feet. The height is decided according to the slope and design of the roof. The privacy of neighboring buildings is taken care of.

Building coverage

A maximum of  50%  of the plot can only be covered from ADU in Beverly Hills. The total coverage is calculated by combining the main house and the ADU. It is important to maintain an open space. According to the rules it is necessary to leave enough space for parking and landscaping.

Location

Single-Family Properties:

  • Detached ADUs: ADUs can be built in the form of separate building in the back portion of the plot. A distance of at least 6 feet from the main house is required.
  • Attached ADUs: It is allowed to make ADUs attached to the main house. It should have a separate entrance.

Duplex and Multi-family Properties:

  • General Requirements:  One or more ADUs can be built in duplex and multi-family properties. Parking is required for all units.
  • Zoning Specifics: Additional rules apply in special zones. The number of ADUs is limited in some areas.

Exterior details

The exterior design of the ADU should match the main house. Colour, material and architectural styling are taken care of. The design of windows and doors should be in line with the privacy of neighbors. The design of the roof must be adapted to the local climate.

Parking

ADU requires an additional parking space. This site can be in a garage or open space. The size of the parking lot should be at least 9×18 feet. Parking can be allowed in property near public transport.

Setbacks and Buffer Zones

It is important for ADU to follow the minimum setback. A setback of 20  feet is required at the front.  A setback of  5  feet in the side yard and  10  feet in the back is required. The buffer zone protects the privacy of neighboring property.

Minimum Lot Area (RF Zone)

The minimum plot size is important for ADUs in the RF zone. The size of the ADU is limited in small plots. The larger plot has more options available. It is necessary to follow the minimum lot area according to the zone.

Zone Table

Zone Minimum Lot Area
R-18 4,800 sq. ft.
R-9 7,200 sq. ft.
R-6 9,800 sq. ft.
R-4 14,800 sq. ft.
R-2.0 19,800 sq. ft.

Connection For Utilities

ADU requires independent utility connection.  Separate meters are installed for electricity, water and sewer. The capacity of connection is decided together with the main house. All connections are established according to local codes.

The cost of a utility connection is not included in the permit fee. Separate planning has to be done for the connection. Permission has to be taken from the local utility department. The services of a professional installer are necessary for the connection.

Fire Safety

All the rules of fire safety must be followed in ADU. It is necessary to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. There should be a provision for emergency exits. The availability of fire extinguishers has to be ensured. Non-compliance with safety rules may result in cancellation of the permit.

Room Specifications

Room Specifications

  • Sleeping Areas: The minimum size of the bedroom should be  70 square feet. A window is required in every room. The size of the window should be  10%  of the area of the room. The height of the room should be at least 7 feet.
  • Kitchen: A minimum area of  50 square feet is required in the kitchen. Arrangement of counter space, sink and stove is a must. There should be adequate lighting and provision of ventilation. Electrical outlets should be in safe places.
  • Bathroom: The minimum size of the bathroom is  fixed at 30 square feet. Toilet, wash basin and shower facilities are essential. A window or exhaust fan is a must for ventilation. Waterproofing is done on the floor.
  • Storage Spaces: At least 40 square feet of space has to be left for storage. Provision of wardrobe or closet is a must. The storage space should be separate from the habitable area. Shelves are placed according to storage capacity.

Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations

Beverly Hills has special rules for renting ADUs short-term. The rental period cannot be less than 30 days. The use of ADU for domestic business is limited. Business activities should not disturb neighbours. Violation of the rules can lead to fines.

Building Codes

ADU construction is required to comply with California building codes. All building materials should be of standard quality. The electrical and plumbing work must be done by licensed contractors. Safety standards are strictly adhered to.

ADU Permit Beverly Hills Guidelines

Detailed documentation has to be submitted for an ADU permit in Beverly Hills. Architectural plans and engineering drawings are essential. The permit process can take time. All necessary information must be accurate.

ADU Permit

Permit Cost Table

Permit Type Cost
Building Permit $2,500 – $5,500
Electrical Permit $300 – $550
Plumbing Permit $250 – $450
Mechanical Permit $200 – $350
Demolition Permit $150 – $250
Landscaping Permit $75 – $150

Property Requirements

Property in Beverly Hills must meet special criteria for an ADU. The size of the plot must exceed the minimum requirements. There should be proper drainage system. The slope of the land should not exceed  15%.

Parking

Property in Beverly Hills must meet special criteria for an ADU. The size of the plot must exceed the minimum requirements. There should be proper drainage system. The slope of the land should not exceed  15%.

Front setbacks

The setback of the ADU from the street side should be higher than the main house. A distance of at least 20 feet to the front is required. Landscaping can be done in setbacks. It is necessary to maintain the visibility of the street.

Side and rear setbacks

A  setback of 5  feet is required for the ADU in the side yard. A setback of  10 feet has to be kept in the back part. Corner lots may require additional setbacks. Useful trees can be planted in the setback.

Open space and rear yards

It is important to maintain open space even after ADU. At least 30%  of the back courtyard must be open. Space has to be left for children to play and garden. Maintain natural light and air flow.

Properties That Qualify

Not all residential properties in Beverly Hills qualify for an ADU. Permission to build ADUs in single-family homes is easily available. The size and position of the plot are important. Merit is decided as per zoning rules.

Special permission is required for ADUs in apartments and condominiums. Existing structures on the property are examined. Availability of parking and utilities is observed. Permission is granted only if all the criteria are met.

Development Standards

Single-family

  • Attached: The design of the ADU attached to the main house should match the original structure. Provision of separate entrance is necessary. Internal connections are not allowed. Privacy and security are taken care of.
  • Detached: Separate standing ADUs are constructed according to special standards. A minimum distance has to be maintained from the main house. Independent utility connections are required. Size and height rules apply.

Duplex properties

  • Attached: ADUs attached to duplexes require special permits. Strength checks are necessary as the load of the existing structure increases. Provision of parking is required for each unit.
  • Detached:  The duplex property should have enough space to create a separate ADU. Proper distance between all units is required. Special provisions for fire safety apply.

Multifamily properties

  • Attached: Multi-family buildings have stringent rules for connected ADUs. The amenities of existing residents should not be affected. The use of common areas should be clear.
  • Detached: Multi-family properties have a limited number of separate ADUs. The availability of parking and open space is important. Private space is required for each unit.

Junior ADUs (JADUs)

The junior ADU is built inside the main house. Its maximum size is limited to  500 square feet. Shared use of the kitchen is permitted. Separate entrances and bathrooms are required. No additional parking is required.

Property Designations

Property Designations

  • Flood Zones: Special construction standards apply for ADUs in flood zones. The floor height should be above the flood level. Proper drainage system is necessary. Additional insurance may be required.
  • Geohazard Zones: Geotechnical reports are necessary for ADU construction in landslide prone areas. Special design of the foundation is necessary. The stability of the soil has to be ensured. Additional security measures have to be taken.
  • Historic Designation: Special approval is required for ADUs in buildings of historical importance. It is necessary to maintain the original architecture. Changes are limited. The rules of heritage conservation apply.
  • Easements: ADU cannot be formed in the space left for public use. The utility element cannot be interrupted. The rights of the neighbour have to be respected. Scrutiny of legal documents is necessary.

Pre-Approved Beverly Hills ADUs

Some ADU designs are already approved in Beverly Hills. Selecting these designs speeds up the permit process. Pre-approved designs conform to all regulations. There is limited scope for change.

Various size and style options are available in these designs. The cost and construction time can be easily estimated. Local contractors are familiar with these designs. Quality and safety standards are ensured.

Start Your ADU Project Today!

ADU Builders CA helps you with your ADU project. Our team provides you with guidance every step of the way. There is cooperation in the entire process from planning to construction. Contact us today and make your dream ADU come true.

FAQs

Yes, ADUs must be designed to blend with the character of the primary residence and the surrounding neighborhood. This includes architectural style, materials, and landscaping.

Yes, the total floor area of the ADU cannot exceed the maximum allowable FAR for the property, which varies based on lot size and zoning regulations.

Typically, you can only build one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) per residential lot. However, additional units may be possible under specific circumstances or variances.

Yes, converting a garage into an ADU requires a permit. The conversion must meet all the city’s building, safety, and design standards.

Yes, a detached ADU is allowed in the backyard, as long as it complies with setbacks, height, and other regulations.

The maximum height for a two-story ADU is typically 25 feet, although it may vary based on the specific zoning of your property.

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