ADU Regulations in La Mirada, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Objective Design Standards: The ordinance imposes specific design standards on Single-Unit buildings (including ADUs), requiring entryway articulation (porches, recesses), façade variety for walls over 20 feet long, and material variety (minimum of two materials/colors). Garage Placement Restriction: Garages and surface parking lots are prohibited from being located closer to the street than the front door of the primary dwelling, unless in a Hillside Management Area. Prohibited Materials: Specific materials are prohibited on façades, including polished metal, plywood, and smooth finish stucco (sand finish of less than 20/20), which effectively mandates textured stucco or higher-cost siding. Canopy Tree Requirement: Residential developments must provide at least one canopy tree in the first four feet of the front yard setback, plus additional trees for wider lots.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in La Mirada

• What is the maximum ADU size in La Mirada, California?

  In La Mirada, the maximum ADU size is typically 1200 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; La Mirada may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with La Mirada planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in La Mirada?

  In La Mirada, 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 La Mirada planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in La Mirada?

  In La Mirada, 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 La Mirada or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in La Mirada?

  In La Mirada, 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; La Mirada planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in La Mirada?

  In La Mirada, 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 La Mirada planning for your address.