Monterey Park

One ADU is permitted on each residential lot with a single-family dwelling. The accessory dwelling unit may be attached to the existing primary dwelling, located within the living area of the existing dwelling, attached to an accessory structure, or detached and located on the same lot.

One JADU is permitted on each residential lot and must be created within the existing primary dwelling, including attached garages.

Monterey Park follows California state ADU law and applies local standards related to height, setbacks, design compatibility and development requirements.

• Detached ADU: A standalone residential unit located on the same lot as the primary home.
• Attached ADU: A unit that is physically connected to the main house
• Conversion ADU: A unit created by converting existing space such as a garage or accessory structure
• Junior ADU (JADU): A unit up to 500 sq. ft. located within the existing home with an efficiency kitchen

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Up to 1,200 sq. ft. maximum
  • Attached: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling or 800 sq. ft. (whichever is greater)
    
    
• Setbacks:
  
  • Minimum 4 ft from side and rear property lines for detached and attached ADUs
  • Existing setbacks may be maintained for conversion ADUs
    
    
• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached: Maximum 16 ft (can increase to 18 ft near transit or under specific conditions)
  • Detached height may increase to 18 ft if near transit or under qualifying conditions
  • Attached: Up to 25 ft
    
    

• Parking Requirements:
  
  • No parking required for JADUs or conversion ADUs
  • For new ADUs: 1 parking space per unit
  • Parking may be waived if within ½ mile of public transit
  • Replacement parking is not required when garages are converted

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

• ADU/JADU application submission
• Building permit and plan check review
• Planning approval for JADUs
• Utility and service considerations
• Compliance with building, zoning and fire codes

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

ADU permit timelines in Monterey Park are governed by California state law, which requires cities to approve or deny a complete ADU application within 60 days of submission.

ADUs are allowed in all residential zones within Monterey Park. The number of ADUs permitted depends on the type of residential property (single-family or multi-family).

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

ADU resources, including the pre-approved ADU plans page and the ADU Development Standards document. These resources provide detailed guidance on design requirements, development standards and the permitting process for accessory dwelling units in the city.