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LADBS currently offers in person services by appointment only. Please Click Here to schedule an appointment.

Same day Virtual Counter for Building and Zoning Information is now open, as of December 1, 2023. Click Here

LADBS is excited to announce the launch of its brand new website on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

The newly redesigned website will also have the web address or URL change from ladbs.org to dbs.lacity.gov.

LADBS.org will remain active after the launch, automatically redirecting users to the new website. Click here for more information.

ADU Approved Standard Plans FAQs

ADU / ADU Approved Standard Plans FAQs

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Are these plans available free?

No. Each pre-approved plan is available for a fee determined by the architect or designer in consultation with the homeowner/client. Please see the link, ‘For further information on this standard plan click here.’ listed under each plan.

How do I pay for these plans?

Please contact the designer of the pre-approved plan to inquire about fees. Please see the link, ‘For further information on this standard plan click here.’ listed under each plan.

Can I use these plans outside of the City of Los Angeles?

Please contact the individual jurisdiction to inquire whether they will accept a City of Los Angeles Pre-Approved Standard Plan.

Can I use these designs if I want to convert an existing structure such as a detached garage or recreation room into an ADU?

No. These pre-approved ADU Standard Plans are only for new, detached structures.

Will other agencies need to review my plans? Do other clearances still apply?

Yes. Other agency reviews and clearance requirements may still apply depending on your individual site conditions.

Once a standard plan is selected, how does a customer indicate the use of the standard plan on the LADBS permit application?

When submitting your Building Permit application, please indicate the ADU Standard Plan number you are using in the work description.

To what extent can homeowners customize their standard plan designs?

Most of the ADU Standard Plans have been pre-approved with various options. Some customization is possible, such as changes to window and door types and sizes, colors, etc. Approved standard plan floor plans can also be rotated.

What items are required for plan check submission using an ADU Pre-Approved Standard Plan.

To obtain a building permit, you will need to provide a completed Building Permit Application, a copy of the LA City approved stamped ADU Standard Plan, and plans indicating how the Standard Plan will be adapted to a specific site. This should include the necessary details indicating how and where the structure will be built in a specific location (i.e. plot plan showing setbacks, etc.).

All applications and plans must then be submitted at one of our offices or uploaded/submitted via Eplan. No structural calculations are required. The Department will review all of the plans and issue a building permit once it is verified site-specific factors for the property, including compliance with the Zoning Code and foundation requirements.

Who can I contact for general Zoning and Building Code questions related to ADUs?

For Zoning and Building code questions, please contact our call center at 311 or (213) 473-3231 and ask to speak with the LADBS Zoning & Building Code Engineer. Some zoning information can also be found on ZIMAS.

Are these plans open-source?

No. The participating architects and designers retain ownership of the designs.

Can I use these plans to add an ADU as an addition to my home?

No, these pre-approved ADU Standard Plans are only for new, detached structures.

Can I purchase these plans directly from the firms listed?

Yes, the plans may be purchased directly from the plan owner.

Are all plans for prefabricated or modular structures?

No. The ADU Standard Plan program includes pre-approved designs that are both meant to be built in place as well as designs that are prefabricated off-site.

As an Architect, Engineer, or designer what is required to be submitted for review to have my plans approved as an ADU Standard Plan?

Below is a general list of items needed for the ADU Standard Plan review and approval:

Floor plan – Show proposed work and room layout, door and window sizes and location.
Building Elevations/Cross Sections – Exterior elevations for new construction, detailing all exterior walls, projections and cross sections in each direction.
Foundation Plan – Show foundation size (width and depth), along with slab on grade thickness. For raised floor construction, show size and direction of floor joists.
Roof Framing – Show roof rafters and ceiling joists’ size and direction.
Energy Conservation – Energy calculations and Certificate of Compliance (CF1R). See energy.ca.gov/title24 for more information. Compliance documents shall be provided for all design orientations/directions.
Green Code – material specifications, notes and details.

Document Submittal Requirement for a New Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Standard Plan.

What is the process to have my plans approved as an ADU Standard Plan?

Once you have your plans ready for submittal, you can submit them through our Eplan portal using the address '1 Standard Plan Way'. Please include in the work description, 'ADU Standard Plan Program: X-Story, X-bedroom(s) with options. (XXX sf)'. You will need to submit plans for each unit you are proposing.

How much will the permitting fees be when I decide to move forward with a standard plan?

Building plan check and permit fees are based on the total project valuation (total cost of construction). Estimated building plan check and permit fees can be determined using our Online Permit Fee Calculator.

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