ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home

How many ADUs can you build in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, only one ADU is allowed per lot with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling, whether it's attached or detached from the primary building.

How large can an attached ADU be in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, an attached ADU can be a maximum of 50% of the existing primary dwelling's living area, but not to the extent that it prevents an 800-square-foot ADU, or it can be 850 square feet for a one-bedroom unit, or 1,000 square feet for an ADU with more than one bedroom.

How large can a detached ADU be in Lawndale?

For a detached ADU in Lawndale, the total floor space area should not be larger than 1,000 square feet for units with more than one bedroom.

Can I build a 2-story ADU in Lawndale?

Yes, you can build a 2-story ADU in Lawndale if it follows the maximum height limit of 25 feet.

Is there a minimum size for an ADU?

No, there is no minimum size requirement for an ADU in Lawndale.

Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?

Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in Lawndale for single-family properties.

What is the maximum height for an ADU?

• Detached ADU: Maximum height is 18 feet (with an additional 2 feet if the roof pitch aligns with the primary dwelling) when located within half a mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor.
• Attached ADU: The height limit is 25 feet or the height limit of the primary dwelling, whichever is lower.

ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building

How many ADUs does Lawndale allow for multifamily properties?

Lawndale allows at least one ADU on multifamily properties, with the option to build up to 25% of the existing number of units as ADUs. Additionally, up to two detached ADUs are allowed on lots with existing or proposed multifamily dwellings.

How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, the size of an attached ADU for a multifamily building can be up to 50% of the existing primary dwelling's living area, ensuring it doesn't prevent an 800-square-foot ADU, or it can be 850 square feet for a one-bedroom unit, or 1,000 square feet for an ADU with more than one bedroom.

How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, a detached ADU for a multifamily building cannot be larger than 1,000 square feet in total floor space area for units with more than one bedroom.

Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?

There are currently no guidelines in Lawndale regarding the placement of detached ADUs on top of each other.

Can I attach two ADUs to each other?

No, in Lawndale, attaching two ADUs to each other is not allowed. Instead, they should be strictly attached to the primary building.

Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?

Yes, in Lawndale, existing space can be converted into an ADU in multifamily properties.

What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building

The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building in Lawndale follows similar guidelines to those for single-family houses.

What ADU types are allowed to build in Lawndale?

Lawndale offers multiple options for constructing ADUs:

• Detached ADU: A fully separate structure from the main house.
• Attached ADU: A unit that is physically connected to or integrated into the primary residence.
• Converted ADU: Converting existing spaces like garages, sheds, or storage areas into livable units with basic amenities such as a kitchen and bathroom.

You have the choice to build a new ADU or modify an existing structure. Converting areas like garages or sheds might allow you to bypass some zoning rules, such as setback or height restrictions, and may allow for minor additions. However, renovating older buildings can bring unexpected challenges that might raise the overall costs.

ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings

What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, an ADU should maintain a minimum setback of 4 feet from both the side and rear lot lines. However, the city has not specified regulations for corner or through lots.

What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?

In Lawndale's Single-Family Residential (R-1) zone, the ADU should follow the 20-foot building separation requirement but can still be constructed with a minimum size of 800 square feet.

Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?

No setbacks are required when converting existing structures into ADUs in Lawndale.

Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Lawndale?

Yes. In Lawndale, an ADU can be built in the front yard only after exploring other options, such as placing it in the rear or side yard, converting space within the existing home, or expanding the residence. All relevant development standards from the Lawndale Municipal Code should also be met.

Design requirements for ADU

How many bedrooms can an ADU have?

An ADU in Lawndale can have at least one bedroom, unlike in some other cities where studio units are allowed.

Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?

While Lawndale's municipal code does not explicitly state this, most ADUs in California typically include a full kitchen, unlike JADUs, which often have efficiency kitchens.

Does an ADU require independent utility meters?

The city doesn't require a new or independent utility connection between an ADU and the utility for properties with an existing or proposed single-family home.

What is the minimum ceiling height?

In Lawndale, living spaces, including ADUs, should have a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet as per the California Building Code.

Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here

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The parking requirements for ADU

What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Lawndale?

In Lawndale, each ADU should have one parking space. Exceptions include ADUs located within a half-mile walking distance of public transit, within architecturally or historically significant historic districts, those incorporated into the primary residence or accessory structure, when on-street parking permits are unavailable to ADU occupants, or when a car share vehicle is within one block of the ADU.

Where can I have a parking space on my property?

Parking spaces for ADUs in Lawndale can be located tandem on existing driveways or setback areas, except for the non-driveway front yard setback.

How to get permits for your ADU

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Lawndale?

Getting an ADU permit in Lawndale typically takes 3.5 to 4 months. After preparing the permit drawings, submit them for a Plan Check. It's advisable to schedule a pre-plan check meeting with the planner to ensure the application is complete.

Once submitted and fees are paid, the city has 60 days to determine if the application is complete. If no response is given within that time, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are required, your designer will need to revise and resubmit the plans. The application must meet ADU requirements, and missing information alone won’t result in rejection. The Plan Check fee is approximately $5,524.

Does Lawndale require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?

Yes, in Lawndale, plans for an ADU are typically submitted in person to the city's Planning Division. Electronic submission may not be available, so it's advisable to confirm the submission process with the local authorities.

Does Lawndale require coastal development permits?

No, Lawndale does not require coastal development permits.

When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Lawndale?

A licensed professional is needed to design an ADU in Lawndale if the project deviates from standard construction methods.

Cost, financing and market value of ADUs

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Lawndale?

Constructing an ADU in Lawndale generally runs around $380 per square foot. This estimate should factor in expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For a 900-square-foot ADU, the total cost typically comes to about $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.

Is it profitable to build an ADU in Lawndale?

To assess the financial viability of building an ADU in Lawndale, it is important to compare construction costs with local real estate market values. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU might have a market value of approximately $450,000. With construction expenses around $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of 13%.

Moreover, profitability can also be assessed by considering potential rental income or the benefits of having family members reside on the same property.

Can you sell an ADU in Lawndale?

AB 1033 gives California’s local governments the authority to set rules for selling ADUs and primary residences as condominiums, provided current ADU regulations are met.

In Lawndale, local laws govern ADU sales. An ADU can be sold if it is built by a certified nonprofit. Also, if a tenancy in the common agreement has been recorded, or if the city permits the ADU and primary residence to be sold as separate condominium units.

Are ADUs rent-controlled in Lawndale?

No, ADUs in Lawndale are not subject to rent control laws. They are considered new constructions and are exempt from regulations like AB 1482, allowing landlords to adjust rents annually. This exemption applies to buildings that are at least 15 years old.

How do I get money to build an ADU in Lawndale?

Homeowners in Lawndale can apply for the CalHFA's ADU grant program, managed by the California Community Economic Development Association (CCEDA). This program provides eligible homeowners with grants of $40,000 to cover pre-construction expenses for ADU construction. Additionally, 54% of these grants are reserved for low-income households to enhance affordability.

Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.

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Resources

Lawndale Municipal Code