Comprehensive Guide to Building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in West Hollywood, California
Introduction to ADUs
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard cottages, are secondary housing units that offer complete independent living facilities. Junior ADUs (JADUs) are smaller units (max 500 sq. ft.) within the primary residence and may share sanitation facilities.
In West Hollywood, ADUs address the housing crisis by offering flexible and affordable living options, from rental income to multigenerational living. Given West Hollywood's high property values and limited space, ADUs provide a practical way to increase housing stock and enhance property utility.
Benefits of Building an ADU
- Increased Property Value: ADUs add usable square footage and potential resale value.
- Rental Income: Market rents for ADUs range from $1,900–$2,300/month.
- Multigenerational Living: Space for elderly family, adult children, or caregivers.
- Affordable Housing Contribution: Infill housing without expanding the urban footprint.
- Community Incentives: Programs like the Affordable ADU Pilot Program promote long-term rental affordability.
ADU Regulations in West Hollywood
Key Definitions
- ADU: Attached or detached self-contained housing on a residential lot.
- JADU: Interior units (max 500 sq. ft.) with a separate entrance; must be owner-occupied.
Zoning and Locations
- Permitted in R-1 to R-4 zones.
- ADUs allowed on lots with an existing/proposed dwelling.
- JADUs only allowed in single-family zones.
Allowed Number of Units
- Single-Family Lots: 1 ADU + 1 JADU
- Multi-Family Lots: Up to 25% of existing units as conversions, plus 2 detached ADUs (up to 8 on large lots)
Size Limits
| Type | Min/Max Size |
|---|---|
| ADU (Studio/1-Bed) | 150 sq. ft. – 850 sq. ft. |
| ADU (2+ Bedrooms) | 150 sq. ft. – 1,200 sq. ft. |
| JADU | Up to 500 sq. ft. |
| Conversion ADU | Based on existing area +150 sq. ft. (egress) |
Height Restrictions
- Detached ADUs: Max 18 ft
- Attached ADUs/JADUs: Max 25 ft
Setbacks
| Scenario | Setback |
|---|---|
| New ADU | Side/Rear: 4 ft; Front: 10–15 ft (zone-based) |
| Converted Structure | No additional setbacks |
| Structure Separation | Min. 6 ft from existing |
Parking
- No parking required for new ADUs or JADUs.
- No replacement parking needed when garages are converted.
Other Requirements
- Code Compliance: Fire sprinklers required only if the main house has them.
- Owner-Occupancy: Required for JADUs only.
- Rental Term: Subject to lease length restrictions (consult WHMC).
- Deed Restriction: Must be recorded before Certificate of Occupancy.
- Historic Lots: ADUs must not be visible from the street.
- Rooftop Decks: Prohibited.
- Density: ADUs don’t count toward zoning density limits.
- Fees: No impact fees for ADUs.
Permitting Process
Standard ADU Permitting
- Prepare Plans: Floor plans, plot plan, elevations.
- Submit Application: Via city’s online portal.
- Plan Review: 60-day ministerial approval (no public hearing).
- Inspections: Groundwork to final.
- CofO Issued: After compliance + deed restriction.
Pre-Approved ADU Plan Program
- City Plan: One-story ADU, code-compliant, free.
- Third-Party Plans: Buy from designers, may vary by lot.
- Review within 30 days; resubmissions reviewed within 2 weeks.
Non-Conforming ADUs
Requires ministerial ADU Permit. May also require a development permit (WHMC 19.48).
Contact: [email protected] | (323) 848-6475
```Design Guidelines
- Detached max height: 18 ft; Attached/JADU: 25 ft.
- Rooftop decks prohibited.
- Historic visibility restrictions apply.
- Modular/prefab ADUs encouraged to cut cost/time.
- Fire safety: Sprinklers if primary home has them.
Estimated ADU Costs in West Hollywood
- Design/Plans: $6,000 – $20,000
- Permits/Fees: $3,000 – $10,000
- Construction (Detached): $250 – $400/sq. ft.
- JADUs: Often cheaper due to shared utilities/structure
- Total Average: $150,000 – $350,000
Cost varies based on:
- Unit type (conversion vs. new construction)
- Material and labor market conditions
- Use of pre-approved plans
Additional Resources
- West Hollywood ADU Page
- West Hollywood Municipal Code
- Affordable ADU Pilot Program
- Pre-Approved ADU Program
- Planning Department Contact
Need help designing or submitting your ADU project? Reach out to our ADU consultants or visit the West Hollywood Permit Center to get started.
