Special zoning regulations have been implemented for ADU construction in the city of Glendale. It is mandatory to follow these rules while constructing ADUs in residential areas. The city is divided into different residential zones with different rules applicable. Specific criteria have been set for the size and location of ADUs in each zone.
The ADU size limits depend on the area of the lot. Low-sized ADUs can be made on small lots. Large ADUs can be constructed on large lots. The table below shows the maximum area of ADU allowed according to different lot sizes.
| Lot Size | Single Family Housing (Maximum Area) | Duplex and multi-family (maximum floor area) |
| 6,000 | 1,400 sqft | 900 sqft |
| 8,500 | 1,700 sqft | 1,100 sqft |
| 11,000 | 2,000 sqft | 1,300 sqft |
| 16,000 | 2,600 sqft | 1,700 sqft |
| 21,000 | 3,200 sqft | 2,100 sqft |
The height of the ADU in Glendale should be lower than the main house. The maximum height of a single-storey ADU can be up to fifteen feet. The maximum permissible height for a two-storey ADU has been fixed at twenty-five feet. The roof slope and the design of the building are required to be in line with the local architecture.
It is mandatory to adhere to the limit of the total construction area on the property. The main house and ADU together can cover a maximum of forty-five percent of the lot area. Sufficient space has to be left for open space and green space. The parking area is not counted in this limit.
The location of the ADU is decided according to the characteristics of the property. Making ADUs in the back courtyard is the most prevalent option. ADUs can also be constructed in the side yard. ADU in the front courtyard is allowed only under special circumstances.
Single-Family Properties:
Duplex and Multi-family Properties:
The exterior design of the ADU should match the main house. The location of doors and windows should be decided with privacy in mind. The material used on the exterior walls should be the same as the main house. The design and color scheme of the ceiling should match the architecture of the neighborhood.
An additional parking lot has to be arranged for the ADU at Glendale. This parking can be open or covered. Access to the parking lot should be easy. The parking area should be constructed as per city standards. The parking requirement may be waived in certain circumstances.
Setback rules set the minimum distance of ADU from the property’s boundaries. A setback of at least twenty feet at the front is required. A setback of five feet will have to be kept in the side yard. A minimum setback of fifteen feet has been set at the rear. Leaving the buffer zone is necessary to protect the privacy of neighboring properties.
Minimum lot area has been prescribed for ADUs in residential areas. Different standards have been set for different categories in the RF zone. The size of the lot affects the maximum area of the ADU. The table below shows the minimum lot area for different zones.
| zone | Minimum lot area |
| R-25 | 6,000 sqft |
| R-15 | 8,500 sqft |
| R-9 | 11,000 sqft |
| R-6 | 16,000 sqft |
| R-3 | 21,000 sqft |
It is necessary to arrange independent utility connections for ADUs. Separate meters and connections for electricity will be installed. A new connection will be taken from the main line for water supply. The sewer line should be connected to the main sewer line. A separate meter will be arranged for gas connection.
All utility connections must conform to the standards set by the local body. The necessary permits must be obtained before establishing a connection. It is necessary to conduct separate inspections for each utility. Utility connections should only be established by licensed contractors.
It is mandatory to follow strict rules for fire safety. Smoke detectors should be installed in every room. The emergency exit route should be clearly marked. The fire extinguisher should be placed in a place of easy access. The size of the windows should be large enough for emergency evacuation.
Special rules apply to short-term rentals to ADUs in Glendale. The rental period cannot be less than thirty days. The use of ADU for commercial activities is limited. Home office is allowed but customer service is restricted. It is necessary to follow the rules related to parking and noise.
The Building Code should be strictly followed. Building materials should be of high quality. Electrical and plumbing work should conform to standards. Adherence to energy efficiency standards is mandatory. All construction works should be carried out by licensed contractors.
Various permits have to be obtained for the construction of ADUs. The application process must be completed according to city regulations. All necessary documents must be submitted. Officers will have to be called from time to time for inspection.
| Permit Type | cost |
| Building Permits | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Electrical Permit | $300 – $550 |
| Plumbing Permit | $250 – $450 |
| Mechanical Permit | $200 – $350 |
| Demolition Permit | $150 – $250 |
| Landscaping Permit | $75 – $150 |
It is mandatory to follow all the requirements prescribed for the property. The size of the plot should be suitable for ADU construction. Proper drainage system should be in place. The slope of the land should not exceed fifteen percent. Soil test report has to be submitted.
It is necessary to arrange an additional parking space for the ADU. The parking lot should be with direct access from the road. The parking size should be suitable for a standard vehicle. The garage or carport is required to be constructed according to city standards.
It is mandatory to leave a minimum setback of twenty feet at the front. There cannot be an entrance to the ADU towards the main road. Landscaping should be carried out in the front setbacks. Permanent structures cannot be built in the setback area. This area can be used for parking.
A minimum setback of five feet is required in the side yard. A setback of fifteen feet will have to be left in the back. Utility connections can be established in setbacks. The air conditioning unit can be placed in this area. The setback area has to be kept clean and barrier free.
It is necessary to adhere to the minimum requirement of open space. Thirty percent of the area in the back courtyard will have to be left open. Space should be kept for landscaping and gardening. A safe place should be arranged for children to play. There should be proper arrangement for drainage of rain water.
Single family and multi-family residential properties located in Glendale are eligible for ADU construction. The size of the plot must meet the minimum requirements. The construction on the property must conform to the existing regulations. Sufficient open space is required to be available for the ADU.
The ownership of the property should be clear and there should be no disputes. All outstanding taxes and fees must have been paid. There should be no illegal construction on the property. The condition of the building should be safe and habitable. All existing utility connections must be in a working state.
The maximum area of Junior ADU has been fixed at 500 square feet. JDU should be constructed inside the main building. Kitchen facilities can be shared use. It is necessary to have separate entrances. No additional parking is required.
The City of Glendale has granted pre-approval to some standard ADU designs. Using these designs speeds up the permit process. Pre-approved plans include a variety of sizes and styles. Saves construction cost and time. Adherence to quality standards is ensured.
Minor changes to the pre-approved design are allowed. The interior layout can be changed as needed. Additional approval will be required for changes in exterior décor. All changes must be in accordance with the Building Code. The quality of construction has to be maintained.
This is the best time to start your ADU project in Glendale. Our expert team will assist you throughout. We will guide you in obtaining all the necessary permits. We guarantee quality construction and timely project completion. Get in touch today and make your dream ADU come true.
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 Glendale 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 Glendale 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.
