Alhambra

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an attached or detached residential unit that provides complete independent living facilities, including living, sleeping, cooking and sanitation and is located on the same parcel as a primary dwelling.

One ADU and one JADU are permitted on residential lots with no more than one existing or proposed single-family dwelling.

Alhambra applies ADU regulations through its zoning code and requires compliance with underlying zoning standards such as lot coverage, open space and development regulations.

• Detached ADU: A unit separated from the primary structure.
• Attached ADU: A unit attached to or located within the primary dwelling.
• Conversion ADU: A unit created within existing living space or accessory structures.
• Junior ADU (JADU): A unit contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling.

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Maximum 1,200 sq. ft.
  • Attached: Maximum 50% of the primary dwelling or 850 sq. ft. (1-bedroom) / 1,000 sq. ft. (more than 1 bedroom), whichever is greater
    
    
• Setbacks:
  
  • Minimum 4 ft from side and rear property lines for new ADUs
  • No setback required for ADUs within existing structures, subject to safety requirements
    
    
• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached: Maximum 25 ft, up to two stories
  • Attached: Maximum 25 ft, up to two stories
    
    
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • 1 parking space required for new ADUs unless:
    
    • Located within ½ mile of public transit 
    • Located in a historic district

• No parking required for conversion ADUs or JADUs
• Replacement parking is not required when garages are converted

To build an ADU in Alhambra, the following approvals and submittals are typically required:

• Building permit application through the Building Division
• Plan check review and routing to applicable departments
• Compliance with zoning and development standards
• All approvals must be obtained prior to construction

‍

Homeowners should also review Alhambra current fee schedule, utility connection requirements and fire code compliance.

ADU permit timelines in Alhambra are governed by California state law, which requires approval or denial of a complete application within 60 days. 

‍

Engaging professionals familiar with Alhambra ADU process can help streamline approval and potentially reduce delays.

ADUs must comply with the development standards of the underlying zoning district, including floor area limits, lot coverage and open space requirements.

For the most current and complete information, refer directly to the City of Alhambra.The official ADU webpage provides an overview of regulations, development standards and application requirements, while the ADU Guidelines document offers additional guidance and general information for applicants.

‍