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ADU design-build · Long Beach

ADUs in Long Beach

From Craftsman bungalows in Bixby Knolls to beach cottages in Belmont Shore, Long Beach has every kind of lot, and a fast city path for the right ADU.

What applies to your lot

Building an ADU in Long Beach

Who approves your ADU

City of Long Beach: the Planning Bureau and Building & Safety of Community Development review ADUs. State law applies everywhere: a decision within 60 days of a complete application, no public hearing, and at least 800 sq ft with 4 ft side and rear setbacks.

Pre-approved ADUs, over the counter

Long Beach runs a Pre-Approved ADU Program (PAADU). When a pre-approved design fits your lot, plans can be approved over the counter at the Permit Center.

The Coastal Zone

Belmont Shore, Naples, the Peninsula and other areas are in the Coastal Zone. A coastal development permit is added, and the city issues it itself under its Local Coastal Program.

Historic districts

Several neighborhoods are historic districts. A backyard ADU is usually out of sight; what shows from the street may need design review.

California law, everywhere

The rules every city must respect

800 sq ft

Every city must allow at least an 800 sq ft detached ADU with 4 ft setbacks.

4 ft

Maximum side and rear setback for a new detached ADU.

750 sq ft

No impact fees up to this size.

60 days

To approve or deny a complete application, without a hearing.

Read the full guide to ADU rules →

Ideas for your lot

Plans that suit Long Beach lots

Studio

Studio with sleeping alcove

450 sq ft · 18' × 25'

Studio1 bath

1 bedroom

L-shaped one-bedroom

550 sq ft · L · 28' × 25'

1 bed1 bath

2 bedrooms

Two-bedroom rectangle

750 sq ft · 30' × 25'

2 beds1 bath

See all 51 floor plans →

FAQ

ADU questions in Long Beach

Who approves an ADU in Long Beach?

The City of Long Beach, not Los Angeles. We check zoning, the Coastal Zone and historic status for your parcel before drawing.

My house is near the beach. Can I still build?

Usually yes. The Coastal Zone adds a coastal permit to the process; it does not ban ADUs. We plan the extra step into the schedule.

Do you come to my property?

Yes. The visit is free: we look at the lot, the access and the utilities, then give you a realistic estimate.

Nearby areasParamountCarsonDowney

Free feasibility call

Book a free 15-minute feasibility call

A project lead reviews your address, tells you what your lot can hold and gives you a first look at your financing eligibility.

What you get

  • Free, with no obligation
  • A clear answer on what your lot can hold
  • A first look at financing eligibility, by phone or at your property
  • A site visit only if it makes sense

Prefer to talk now? (424) 448-4895

Email: [email protected]

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Service areas

Serving homeowners across Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the South Bay and Orange County, within about 40 miles of Paramount. Farther on request.

Service areas

ADU rules, city by city

Permits, fire and coastal zones, pre-approved plans: see what applies in the 36 cities we serve.

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