ADU Regulations in Glendale, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Illegal Minimum Size Requirements: The City Ordinance sets minimum sizes of 600 sq ft (1-bed), 800 sq ft (2-bed), and 1000 sq ft (3-bed), effectively banning efficiency units. Subjective Design Standards: The City requires ADUs to be 'architecturally compatible', which HCD flags as a subjective standard violating the requirement for objective standards. Prohibition Above Garages: The City explicitly bans new ADUs above detached garages, which HCD declares non-compliant with state law allowing such vertical construction. Front Setback Ban: The City prohibits ADUs between the primary dwelling and the street, violating the state mandate to allow at least an 800 sq ft unit. Unit Mixture Restriction: The City prohibits combining a JADU with a detached ADU on the same lot, which state law explicitly allows.

For the official ordinance and latest updates, check your city or county planning department.

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Glendale

• What is the maximum ADU size in Glendale, California?

  In Glendale, the maximum ADU size is typically NaN square feet, depending on whether the unit is attached or detached. California state law allows up to 1,200 sq ft for detached ADUs and 800 sq ft for attached in many jurisdictions; Glendale may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with Glendale planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Glendale?

  In Glendale, typical setback requirements are 4 feet from the side property line and 4 feet from the rear. These may be reduced to 4 feet under California Government Code § 65852.2 where applicable. Check with Glendale planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in Glendale?

  In Glendale, the maximum height for an ADU is generally 16 feet. State law often allows up to 16 feet for detached ADUs and up to 25 feet when within 4 feet of the property line in some cases. Confirm with Glendale or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Glendale?

  In Glendale, ADU approval is typically Ministerial (by-right) per Gov Code §65852.2. Ministerial (by-right) review means the city must approve qualifying applications without discretionary review, per California Gov Code § 65852.2. Your project must still meet objective standards; Glendale planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Glendale?

  In Glendale, parking for ADUs is generally Often waived per state law; check local ordinance. California law often waives parking for ADUs within a half-mile of transit or in certain historic districts. Check with Glendale planning for your address.