Covina

In Covina, ADUs are permitted on residential properties where zoning allows dwelling units as part of the city’s housing development framework. Both ADUs and Junior ADUs (JADUs) are allowed, provided the property meets eligibility requirements under local zoning and California state law.

All ADU projects must comply with both state regulations and Covina zoning standards and planning review is required to confirm compliance before permits are issued. In some cases, properties may also require a covenant agreement as part of the approval process to ensure long-term compliance with ADU regulations.

Covina aligns with California’s broader ADU legislation but has its own requirements for height, setbacks and design review.

• Detached ADU: A separate residential structure on the same lot
• Attached ADU: Connected to the primary residence
• Conversion ADU: Created by converting existing space such as a garage or portion of the home
• Junior ADU (JADU): A smaller unit within the main dwelling, typically including an efficiency kitchen and shared or separate facilities

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Must comply with zoning standards such as setbacks, height limits and lot coverage
  • Attached: Also subject to zoning development standards including setbacks, height and lot coverage
    
    
• Setbacks:
  
  • Must meet applicable zoning setbacks determined by property zone 
  • Converted existing structures may have reduced requirements depending on conditions
    
    
• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached: Reviewed individually by the Planning Department during permit evaluation
  • Attached: Evaluated during Planning Department review for consistency with the existing structure
    
    
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Parking requirements depend on project conditions and zoning
  • State exemptions may apply depending on location and structure type

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

• Planning and zoning review approval
• Building permit application with full construction document set
• Site plan showing existing and proposed structures
• Floor plans for existing and proposed conditions
• Elevations, structural drawings and engineering plans
• Plumbing, electrical and mechanical plans
• Required inspections during construction stages

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

In Covina, ADU applications are reviewed through both the Planning and Building Departments and the overall timeline largely depends on the completeness of the submittal, the number of plan check corrections required and the complexity of utility coordination. 

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Typically, the process takes about 2-4 months from submission to permit approval, though this can vary. Once permits are issued, additional construction inspection phases are required throughout the building process to ensure compliance with approved plans and applicable codes.

In Covina, ADUs are allowed in residential zoning districts where single-family or multi-family housing is permitted. While there is no universal minimum lot size requirement, all projects must still comply with applicable zoning standards, including setbacks, height limits and lot coverage regulations.

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Depending on the property’s zoning conditions, some ADU projects may also require additional approvals or recorded covenants to ensure compliance with local development requirements and long-term use regulations.

For the most current and complete information, refer directly to the City of Covina.

You should also review the Planning Division ADU Handout #03A (Residential ADU Requirements), along with the City’s Planning FAQ and zoning guidance pages. These resources provide detailed information on submittals, design standards, utility requirements and compliance with local regulations.