Zoning Regulations in Sherman Oaks

Special zoning regulations apply to ADU construction in Sherman Oaks. Our team is well versed with all these rules. According to the rules, ADU can be constructed behind or next to the main building. Under zoning rules, the size of the ADU is decided according to the area of the main building. We will give you accurate information and follow the rules.

Zoning Regulations

ADU Size Limitations

Lot Size Single-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed) Duplex and Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed)
4,500 1,000 sq ft 700 sq ft
6,500 1,300 sq ft 900 sq ft
9,000 1,600 sq ft 1,100 sq ft
14,000 2,200 sq ft 1,400 sq ft
18,000 2,800 sq ft 1,800 sq ft

ADU Height Limitations

It is a must to follow the height limit of ADU in Sherman Oaks. The height of the ADU should be less than the height of the main building. A one-storey ADU can have a maximum height of up to 16 feet. The maximum height allowed for a two-storey ADU is up to 25 feet. We all strictly follow the height rules.

Building coverage

A maximum of 50 percent of the total area of the plot can be covered under building coverage. This boundary includes both the main building and the ADU.  It is important to keep the open space green. The parking area is not counted in the building coverage. We will help you follow these rules.

Location

Single-Family Homes:

  • Detached ADUs: Separate ADUs should be built at least 6 feet away from the main building. It can be located at the back or side.
  • Attached ADUs:  The attached ADU should be under the same roof with the main building. Its entrance must be separate.

Duplexes and Multi-family:

  • General Requirements:  There should be separate parking and entrance for ADU in duplexes. Make sure of it.
  • Zoning Specifics: Special zoning regulations apply for ADUs in multi-family buildings. We will help.

Exterior details

The exterior design of the ADU must match the main building which is an important rule. The material used on exterior walls should be of quality. The design of the roof must be adapted to the local climate. The placement of windows and doors should be done thoughtfully. We will suggest you the best design options.

Parking

Additional parking arrangements for ADU in Sherman Oaks are necessary.  A parking lot is essential for a one-bedroom ADU. ADUs with two or more bedrooms need two parking spaces. The floor of the parking area should be paved. We will ensure compliance with parking rules.

Setbacks and Buffer Zones

It is extremely important for every ADU to follow the setback rules. A distance of at least twenty feet must be kept from the front. A setback of five feet is required in the side yard. A distance of ten feet from the rear side is mandatory. We will design keeping all these rules in mind.

Minimum Lot Area (RF Zone)

Zone Minimum Lot Area
R-18 4,800 sq. ft.
R-12 6,800 sq. ft.
R-8 9,500 sq. ft.
R-4 14,500 sq. ft.
R-2 18,500 sq. ft.

Connection For Utilities

Water and electricity connections should be separate from the main building. The connection to the sewer line must be of proper capacity. It will be necessary to install a separate meter for the gas line. Electrical wires will be placed underground. We will get all utility connections done under the supervision of experts.

The capacity of the heating and cooling system will be decided according to the size of the ADU. Separate arrangements will be made for internet and cable connections. Telephone lines will also be laid separately. The capacity of the water meter will be selected carefully. We will establish all connections according to the rules.

Fire Safety

It is mandatory to install smoke detectors for fire safety. Every room should have an emergency exit. Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible. The size of the windows must be suitable for emergency evacuation. We will follow all safety standards.

Room Specifications

Room Specifications

  • Sleeping Areas:  It is mandatory to have windows in sleeping rooms. The minimum size of the room should be eighty square feet. It is important to have adequate light and air in every room. The rooms will have electrical points at convenient locations.
  • Kitchen: Gas and water connections in the kitchen should be safe. The counter space should be at least twenty square feet. It is necessary to install an exhaust fan for ventilation. The electrical points will be installed according to the equipment.
  • Bathroom:  There should be proper drainage of water in the bathroom. The floor will be made of non-slippery material. Exhaust fan and lighting arrangement are mandatory. Faucets and other fittings will be of high quality.
  • Storage spaces: Adequate shelves and cabinets will be installed in the storage space. Shelves can be made along the wall. The luggage space should be ventilated. Electricity connection will be provided.

Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations

Special permission must be obtained to rent an ADU short-term in Sherman Oaks. Separate licenses are required to run a business from home. Rules governing noise and traffic will apply. Complaints from neighbours will be taken seriously. We will help you follow all the rules.

Building Codes

ADU construction is mandated to comply with California building codes. Construction materials should be as per approved standards. The electrical and plumbing work will have to be done by licensed contractors. Safety standards will be strictly followed. We will ensure all codes are followed.

ADU Permit Sherman Oaks Guidelines

Permit Type Cost
Building Permit $2,500 – $5,500
Electrical Permit $300 – $600
Plumbing Permit $250 – $450
Mechanical Permit $200 – $400
Demolition Permit $150 – $300
Landscaping Permit $100 – $200

Property Requirements

The minimum size of the property to build an ADU in Sherman Oaks must be five thousand square feet. There should be no prior infringement on the plot. The drainage system must be in good condition. Electricity and water supply should be adequate. We will evaluate your property.

Parking

It is necessary to arrange additional parking space for ADU. The floor of the parking area should be paved and level. It is important to have enough space for the movement of vehicles. Proper lighting will be done in the parking area. We will help you with parking design.

Front setbacks

The distance of the ADU from the road side should not be less than twenty feet. It is necessary to leave a landscaping space in the front yard. The path to the entrance should be clear and wide. The placement of windows on the front wall will have to be done thoughtfully. We will follow the setback rules.

Side and rear setbacks

It is mandatory to have a minimum setback of five feet in the side yard. Ten feet must be left at the back. The privacy of the neighbor will be taken care of. Trees and plants can be planted in the setback area. We will maintain proper setbacks.

Open space and rear yards

At least thirty percent of the open space should be green. Children’s play areas should be safe. Sufficient space will be left for gardening. A park-like environment can be created in the rear part. We will help with landscaping.

Properties That Qualify

Your property must meet the special criteria for ADU construction in Sherman Oaks. The size and position of the plot are important factors. The existing building needs to be in good condition. The slope of the ground and the quality of the soil should be suitable. We will evaluate the qualifications.

Availability of basic amenities including water and electricity is also essential. Access by road should be easy. The surrounding area should be safe. Parking and traffic arrangements should be proper. We will examine all these aspects.

Development Standards

Single-family

  • Attached:  The construction of the connected ADU should be integrated with the main building. The design of the walls and ceiling is required to be similar. The entrance should be separate. Electricity and water connections will be free. We will help to create the integrated design.
  • Detached:  The separate ADU will be constructed at a reasonable distance from the main building. The style should be similar even if there is an independent design. All facilities will be connected independently. There will be separate parking arrangements. We will form a fully independent entity.

Duplex properties

  • Attached:  It is necessary to have separate entry in the ADU associated with the duplex. The internal structure should be independent. Special attention will be paid to sound insulation. Utilities will vary. We will follow all standards.
  • Detached:  Minimum distance will be followed for ADU separate from duplex. Independent parking and entry points will be built. All facilities will be different. The design will match the main building. We will make a complete plan.

Multifamily properties

  • Attached:  Privacy will be taken care of in ADU associated with multi-family building. Sound and fire protection is mandatory. The use of common areas should be clear. Utilities will be separate. We will make safe designs.
  • Detached: Separate from the multi-family building, ADU will have independent facilities. Parking and landscaping will be different. Privacy will be protected. Community rules will be followed. We will make a comprehensive plan.

Junior ADUs (JADUs)

The size of the junior ADU must be less than four hundred square feet which is an important rule. The kitchen area is required to be at least fifty square feet. The bathroom can be shared with the main house. The entrance must be separate. We will follow the JADU rules.

Property Designations

Property Designations

  • Flood zones:  ADUs will be constructed with special care in the flood zone. The floor height should be above the flood level. Proper drainage system is mandatory. Special building materials will be used. We will follow safety standards.
  • Geohazard zones: Special clearances will be required for construction in seismic zones. Foundation and structure will be strengthened. Soil testing is mandatory. Safety standards will be strictly followed. We will take the advice of experts.
  • Historic designation:  ADU’s design in areas of historical importance should be in line with heritage. Old architecture will be respected. The use of special materials will be necessary. Regulatory approval is a must. We will take care of the tradition.
  • Easements: Cannot be constructed on a place left for public use. Space must be reserved for utility lines. It is important to respect the rights of neighbours. We will follow the Assessment Rules.

Pre-Approved Sherman Oaks ADUs

Sherman Oaks already has some ADU designs approved that can save you time and money. These designs suit the local climate and architecture. The approval process is faster. Construction cost is easy to estimate. We will suggest your suitable options.

These approved designs have various size and layout options available that will meet your needs. Material and finish options can be chosen. The manufacturing process is simple. Quality standards are ensured. We will guide you through the entire process.

Start Your ADU Project Today!

Start your ADU project today and increase the value of your property. Our expert team will provide you with support every step of the way. Contact us for a free consultation. We will help you realize your dream. Your trust is our priority.

FAQs

Soil tests may be required for certain types of construction.

Inspections for foundation, framing, plumbing, and electrical systems are required.

ADUs must match the architectural style of the primary residence and meet local building codes.

Yes, ADUs must have a separate entrance for independent access.

One parking space is generally required unless the ADU is near public transit.

Yes, you can build a two-story ADU, but it must comply with local height restrictions.

Yes, prefabricated or modular ADUs are allowed if they meet local and state building codes.

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