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ADU design-build · Mid-City

ADUs in Mid-City

Single-family homes next to duplexes and small apartment buildings: in Mid-City, the right ADU depends first on what already stands on your lot.

What applies to your lot

Building an ADU in Mid-City

Who approves your ADU

City of Los Angeles: plans are checked by LADBS (Department of Building and Safety), and zoning is read on ZIMAS for your parcel. LADBS also runs a Standard Plan Program of pre-approved ADU designs.

Duplex and apartment lots

On a lot with several units, state law allows ADUs in non-livable spaces such as storage or garages, and detached ADUs too; the number depends on the units already there.

Busy transit corridors

Bus corridors and nearby Metro stations often put lots within half a mile of transit: no parking requirement for the ADU.

Rental demand

A well-planned studio or one-bedroom fits the local rental market, and rentals must be longer than 30 days.

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 Mid-City lots

Studio

Square studio

400 sq ft · 20' × 20'

Studio1 bath

1 bedroom

Compact one-bedroom

450 sq ft · 18' × 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 Mid-City

I own a duplex. Can I add an ADU?

Yes. On a multifamily lot, state law allows ADUs in non-livable spaces and detached ADUs; we count what your lot allows.

How long does approval take?

Once the application is complete, the city must approve or deny it within 60 days.

Who issues the permit?

The City of Los Angeles, through LADBS.

Nearby areasWest AdamsCentral Los AngelesCulver City

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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