Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Culver City: A Comprehensive Homeowner’s Guide
Introduction
Culver City actively supports the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—small, independent residential units on the same lot as a primary home—to expand housing options. Whether for rental income, family, or aging-in-place, this guide outlines everything you need to know about building an ADU in Culver City as of 2025.
Where ADUs Are Allowed
- Permitted in all residential zones (R1, R2, R3, etc.).
- No minimum lot size required.
- Single-family lots: 1 ADU + 1 JADU allowed.
- Multi-family lots: 2 detached ADUs + conversions up to 25% of existing units.
Size and Height Regulations
| Unit Type | Size Limit |
|---|---|
| Detached ADU (1 bed) | Up to 850 sq. ft. |
| Detached ADU (2+ beds) | Up to 1,200 sq. ft. |
| Attached ADU | Up to 50% of main house or 800 sq. ft. min. |
| JADU | Max 500 sq. ft., within primary home |
Height Limits: 16–18 ft by state law (detached), up to 25 ft if attached. Max 30 ft in multifamily zones.
Setbacks and Placement
- Standard side/rear setback: 4 ft
- Reduced to 2 ft if adjacent to alley or commercial zone
- No front yard ADUs allowed
- Conversions: no new setbacks required
- Detached structures must be 5 ft from main house
Parking Rules
- No parking required for ADUs or JADUs
- No replacement required when converting garages
- Street or alley access permitted; no separate path required
Design and Aesthetic Standards
- Must visually match or complement main house
- City offers 3 free pre-approved plan styles
- Roof decks allowed but count toward height limit
- Conversions must remove old garage doors
Occupancy and Rental Restrictions
- No owner-occupancy required for standard ADUs (until 2025)
- Owner must live onsite if building a JADU
- Short-term rentals (<30 days) are prohibited
- ADUs cannot be sold separately
Permitting Process
- Design Plans: Site plan, floor plan, elevations.
- Submit Permit: Use Culver City's online permit portal.
- Plan Review: Reviewed by Building, Planning, Fire, Engineering.
- Address Assignment: Required before final permit.
- Pay Fees: Permit fees + park/mobility impact fees (ADUs ≥750 sq. ft.)
- Construction: Inspections during key stages.
- Final Approval: Certificate of Occupancy issued.
Historic Properties
ADUs are allowed on historic lots, but must meet objective design rules to avoid visible impacts from the public right-of-way. City staff may request compatible materials or placement at rear of lot. ADUs up to 800 sq. ft. cannot be denied due to historic status alone.
Helpful Resources
Ready to Build?
If you're ready to move forward with an ADU in Culver City, consult your designer or contractor, or reach out to our expert ADU team for help navigating the process. Whether you want to house a loved one or add rental income, Culver City's ADU rules make it achievable.
