El Segundo

In El Segundo, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are permitted in residential zones where housing is allowed and are an important part of the city’s housing strategy. They are generally allowed by right on eligible residential properties, meaning they do not require discretionary approval as long as they meet zoning standards.

Both ADUs and Junior ADUs (JADUs) are permitted, and they can be either detached from the main home, attached to the primary residence, or created through the conversion of existing structures. This flexibility allows homeowners to choose different design approaches based on their property layout and needs.

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

• Detached ADU: A separate structure on the same lot as the main residence
• Attached ADU: Physically connected to the primary home
• Conversion ADU: Created from existing space such as garages or interior rooms
• Junior ADU (JADU): A smaller unit created within an existing single-family home and subject to state-defined size limits

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: generally allowed up to 1,200 sq. ft 
  • Attached: may be limited by lot and primary home size
    
    
• Setbacks:
  
  • Standard setback requirement is typically 4 feet from side and rear property lines for ADUs 
  • Some conversions within existing structures may not require new setbacks
    
    
• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached: generally allowed up to two stories / approximately 32 feet depending on roof type and zoning
  • Attached: subject to primary structure height limits or zoning rules
    
    
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Parking is not required in several cases, consistent with California law, including when:
    
    • The ADU is near public transit 
    • The ADU is within or attached to existing structures
    • The property meets other state exemption criteria

To apply for an ADU in El Segundo, homeowners typically must submit:

• Building permit application through the city’s online system (E-Z Permit Hub) 
• Site plan showing property layout and ADU location
• Construction drawings (or pre-approved plan set if using PADU program)
• Structural and energy compliance documentation
• Additional technical reports if required (grading, soils, etc.) 
• Fee estimate using the city’s ADU Fee Calculator system

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

In El Monte, ADU applications must be reviewed within about 60 days once complete under state law. The city’s Pre-Approved ADU Plan program can help speed up approval. 

Overall, timelines usually depend on submission completeness, plan corrections and workload, with most projects going from design to permit in a few months.

In El Segundo, ADU zoning rules allow attached ADUs up to 49% of the primary dwelling’s size, while detached ADUs are generally permitted up to 1,200 sq. ft. Junior ADUs (JADUs) must be attached to the main residence and are limited to 500 sq. ft. In addition, up to two detached ADUs may be allowed per lot, depending on zoning and site conditions.

ADUs can also be created within existing non-livable structures, and in such cases multiple ADUs are generally limited to 25% of the existing units on the property. Overall, while the city provides flexibility for ADU development, all projects must still comply with local zoning standards and applicable state regulations.

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

These include the ADU & JADU Resources page, planning guidelines and application materials that outline zoning rules, permits and development standards

You should also review the city’s Pre-Approved ADU Plan (PADU) Program page, which provides permit-ready designs intended to streamline approvals and reduce design and permitting time for homeowners.