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ADU design-build · West AdamsADUs in West Adams
Craftsman and Victorian homes, deep lots and Metro E Line stations nearby: West Adams combines historic character with strong reasons to build an ADU.
What applies to your lot
Building an ADU in West Adams
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.
Historic neighborhoods
Several parts of West Adams are Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZ). A backyard ADU is usually out of sight, but visible parts may need design review.
Near the E Line
Within half a mile of a major transit stop, no parking can be required and a detached ADU can reach 18 ft.
Deep lots
Long lots often leave room behind the house for a detached ADU, or a second-story unit above an existing garage.
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.
Ideas for your lot
Plans that suit West Adams lots
1 bedroom
L-shaped one-bedroom
1 bed1 bath
Two-story
One-bedroom above a garage
1 bed1 bath
FAQ
ADU questions in West Adams
Can I build an ADU in an HPOZ?
Yes. State law still allows it; the HPOZ can review design for what is visible from the street. We check this before drawing.
Do I need parking near the E Line?
No. Within half a mile walking distance of public transit, parking cannot be required for an ADU.
Who issues the permit?
The City of Los Angeles, through LADBS.
Nearby areasMid-CityCentral 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.
Central Los AngelesSan Fernando ValleyThousand OaksSimi ValleyParamountWest AdamsMid-CityCulver CityLong BeachDowneyWhittierNorwalkTorranceInglewoodComptonCarsonAnaheimSanta AnaIrvineHuntington BeachPasadenaGlendaleBurbankRialto (on request)Garden GroveOrangeFullertonCosta MesaNewport BeachTustinSherman OaksEncinoVan NuysWoodland HillsNorthridgeCalabasas