Culver City

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) are permitted in Culver City and provide independent living facilities including living, sleeping, kitchen and sanitation areas. 

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ADUs and JADUs are allowed in residential zones, including properties with single-family and multi-family uses, in accordance with Culver City Municipal Code Section 17.400.095.

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Culver City follows California state ADU law and has established local standards through its zoning code and ADU Handbook.

• Detached ADU: Detached ADUs are newly built units that are separate from the main home, typically located in the rear yard for reduced street visibility.
• Attached ADU: Attached ADUs are newly constructed units that share at least one wall with the main home and typically blend in with its design, often appearing as part of the primary residence.
• Conversion ADU: Conversion ADUs repurpose existing space, either detached (e.g., a garage or pool house) or attached (e.g., part of the main home like a garage or attic).
• Junior ADU (JADU): Junior ADUs are units under 500 sq. ft. located within a primary home, often sharing a bathroom and featuring a compact efficiency kitchen.

• Maximum Size:
  
  • 150 sq. ft.
    
• Setbacks:
  
  • Standard minimum setbacks:
    
    • 4 feet from side property lines
    • 4 feet from rear property lines
      

• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached: generally, around 16-30 ft depending on structure type and zoning
  • Attached: may match primary residence height limits under zoning rules
    
    
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Parking is often not required if:
    
    • The property is within walking distance of public transit 
    • The ADU is part of an existing structure conversion
    • The site is in a historic district or qualifies under state exemptions
    • Street parking restrictions apply without resident permits

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

• Building permit required prior to construction
• Plan check review by the Building Safety Division
• Site-specific plans must be submitted even when using pre-approved plans
• Compliance with Municipal Code Section 17.400.095
• Payment of applicable plan check and development impact fees

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

In Culver City, ADU applications are reviewed under California’s ministerial approval process, meaning they are evaluated based on objective standards without discretionary hearings. Once a complete application is submitted, the city is required to act within 60 days as mandated by state law.

However, delays can still occur if corrections are needed, documents are missing, or plan check revisions are required. As a result, the overall timeline may extend depending on how quickly these issues are resolved during the review process.

ADUs are permitted in residential zones that allow single-family or multi-family uses.

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

ADU regulations are subject to change and may vary based on property conditions and zoning. Before starting your project, consult with the City of Culver City or a qualified professional to ensure compliance with current local requirements.