Permits and timelines
Guides on this topic, newest first.
- How long an ADU permit takes in Los Angeles
State law gives the city 15 business days to tell you in writing whether your application is complete, and 60 days from a complete application to approve or deny it. If the city misses the 60 days, the application is deemed approved. A pre-approved standard plan shortens plan check because LADBS reviews only the site-specific items. Those clocks do not include your design time, agency clearances or construction.
Los Angeles County · Updated November 6, 2026 · Vivienda
- Converting a garage into an ADU in Los Angeles
A garage conversion is the least disruptive ADU. State law lets you turn the existing space into a home, plus up to 150 sq ft for an entry, with no setback for the existing building, no replacement parking and no new utility connection fee. LADBS's conversion bulletin (P/BC 2026-150, revised August 13, 2026) says what the garage must meet: sound footings, a sealed or new slab, a 7 ft ceiling, a 3 ft wide entry door, an escape window in each bedroom, heating, a kitchen, a bathroom and its own electrical panel.
Los Angeles County · Updated November 6, 2026 · Vivienda
- How Los Angeles pre-approved ADU plans work
LADBS checks a firm's plan against the building, residential, green and energy codes once, so when you use it the city reviews only how it sits on your property: zoning, the foundation for your soil and clearances. ADUCheck lists 30 standard ADU plans from the LADBS program, from 280 to 1,200 sq ft, plus three free county plans for unincorporated areas. You buy a private firm's plan set from the firm; the county-owned plans are free.
Los Angeles County · Updated November 6, 2026 · Vivienda