Special zoning regulations apply to ADU construction in Pacific Palisades. ADUs are allowed in residential areas. The residential areas in our city are divided into different zones. Different rules and restrictions have been set for each zone. It is necessary to check the zoning standards before construction.
The maximum area of the ADU is determined according to the size of the land. Smaller sized ADUs can be made on smaller plots. Large ADUs are allowed to be built on large plots. According to the rules, the size of the ADU should be smaller than the size of the main house.
| Plot Size | Single-family (maximum floor 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 maximum height limit of the ADU in the Pacific Palisades has been set at fifteen feet. The height of the ADU should be less than the height of the main building. While measuring the height of the ADU, the distance from the ground surface to the highest point of the roof is measured. A two-story ADU requires a special permit.
A maximum of forty-five percent of the total area of the plot can be used for building construction. This range includes both the main house and the ADU. It is necessary to adhere to the coverage limit to maintain open space. It is necessary to leave enough space for landscaping.
The location of the ADU should be behind or next to the main house. There should not be an entrance to the ADU on the road side. A minimum distance of ten feet is required between the ADU and the main house. The location should be selected keeping in mind the privacy of the neighbor.
Single-Family Homes:
Duplexes and Multi-family:
The exterior design of the ADU should match the main house. The color of the walls and the material of the ceiling should be the same. Keep the windows and doors in style the same as the main house. Use high-quality materials on exterior walls. Make ADU beautiful with landscaping.
A car parking space is mandatory for ADUs. The parking lot should be covered. The parking lot should be straight and wide. Leave enough space for emergency vehicles. Garages cannot be converted into ADUs.
A minimum distance of twenty feet must be left on the side of the road. A distance of five feet from the neighbor’s border is required. Keep a buffer zone of ten feet at the back. The setback may increase according to the height.
The minimum plot size for ADUs in the RF zone is prescribed. ADUs are not allowed on small plots. The plot size may vary according to the zone. Discounts can be obtained in special circumstances.
| zone | Minimum Plot Area |
| R-20 | 5,500 sqft |
| R-10 | 8,000 sqft |
| R-7 | 10,500 sqft |
| R-5 | 15,500 sqft |
| R-2.5 | 20,500 sqft |
Independent power connection is required for ADU. The meter must be disassembled and all wiring must be done according to the new safety standards. The electrical load will be different from the main house. For water line and sewer connection, permission will have to be obtained from the municipal corporation.
Water and gas pipelines can be connected to the main house. Separate systems will have to be installed for heating and air conditioning. Arrange separate connections for Internet and cable TV. All utility connections must conform to building codes.
It is mandatory to install automatic sprinkler system for fire safety. There should be two doors for emergency exits. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are a must. All windows should be large enough for emergency evacuation. The fire extinguisher should be easily accessible.
ADUs require special licenses to rent short-term. A separate permit will have to be obtained for domestic business. The tenant cannot be retained for less than thirty days. Business activities should not disturb neighbours.
ADU construction must be in accordance with California building codes. Adherence to energy efficiency standards is mandatory. Building materials should be of high quality. It is necessary to get the inspection done from time to time. It is necessary to follow safety standards.
Detailed plans and documents will have to be submitted for the permit. The process takes about three months. All inspections are required to pass. Use the online portal for regular updates.
| 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 | ₹100 – ₹150 |
The ownership of the property should be clear. The land should be dispute-free. All dues of the Municipal Corporation should be paid. The plot boundaries should be clearly marked. Land use certificate is required.
A covered parking space is mandatory for ADUs. The parking area should be at least one hundred square feet. The passage of the vehicle should be smooth. ADUs located near public transport hubs may get discounts in parking.
A setback of twenty feet from the road side is mandatory. The ADU should be behind the line of the main building. The front space will have to be left for landscaping. No permanent construction can be done in the setback.
The side setback should be five feet. A setback of ten feet in the back is required. Setbacks are necessary on both roads on the corner plot. Leave space in the setback for the utility connection.
The open space should be twenty percent of the total area of the plot. Keep enough space for children to play. Leave a suitable place for the garden. The back courtyard is important for privacy.
In Pacific Palisades, ADUs can be made on single family, duplex and multi-family properties. The plot size must meet the minimum requirements. The building may be old or new. The property should conform to zoning regulations.
Site conditions should be suitable for construction. The ground can be flat or slightly sloping. Special approval is required for property located in the flood zone. There may be restrictions on sites of archaeological importance.
Multifamily properties
The junior ADU is built inside the main house. Its maximum area is fixed at five hundred square feet. The kitchen may be small. The bathroom can be shared with the main house. It is necessary to have separate entrances.
Some ADU designs are already approved in Pacific Palisades. Choosing these designs speeds up the permit process. Detailed plans are available for standard sizes and layouts. Construction costs are easy to estimate.
The pre-approved ADU includes all the necessary features. Their quality is assured. Designed to adapt to the local climate. Saves time and money. Minor changes can be made as per requirement.
Start your ADU project with ADU Builders CA. Our expert team will guide you every step of the way. The whole process is simple and transparent. Contact us today for a free consultation. We look forward to creating the ADU of your dreams.
Yes, pool houses can be converted into ADUs with proper permits and upgrades.
Yes, all ADUs must meet fire safety requirements, including proper access and fire-resistant materials.
Parking requirements are waived if the ADU is within half a mile of public transit or part of a garage conversion.
Yes, permits are mandatory for all ADU projects, including conversions and new construction.
Yes, but additional engineering and safety measures may be required for steep slopes.
Yes, modular and prefab ADUs are permitted as long as they meet local building codes.
Yes, multi-story ADUs are allowed, though they must comply with height restrictions and setbacks.
