Find a Contractor

ADU Rules in Long Beach, California

Complete guide to building an Accessory Dwelling Unit in Long Beach — zoning, setbacks, permits, costs, and more.

Max Size: 800 sq ft for a new detached ADU on a single-family lot (IB-PZ-001 Table 1, applying Gov. Code 66323(a)(2)(A)); ADU floor area is measured to the interior walls. On a multifamily lot a detached ADU has no size limit. Converting an existing detached garage or accessory building has no size limit either, but the only addition allowed is up to 150 sq ft for stairs or an entry. State law lets a city allow up to 1,200 sq ft (Gov. Code 66314(d)(5)), which the city's February 2025 summary did; if you want more than 800 sq ft on a single-family lot, ask the Planning Bureau (562-570-6194) before designing Setbacks: 4 ft for new construction, measured to the centerline of the alley where the lot abuts one (IB-PZ-001 Table 3 note b). A converted or rebuilt existing building keeps its existing setback if the Building Official and Fire Code Official find it sufficient for fire and life safety Parking: Varies Verified: 2026-09-19

Researched by ADU Zoning Hub · verified 2026-09-19 against Long Beach planning code and California ADU law · methodology · 29 sources cited ↓

ADU Score: 8/10
Very ADU-friendly · how we score

Are ADUs allowed in Long Beach, CA? [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

Yes. Long Beach allows ADUs on most residential lots. A detached unit can be up to 800 sq ft, set 4 ft back from the rear line. Parking varies by lot and unit size. Owner-occupancy is not required, so the unit can be rented out. A building permit is required and applications are reviewed administratively, without a public hearing.

Maximum size800 sq ft for a new detached ADU on a single-family lot (IB-PZ-001 Table 1, applying Gov. Code 66323(a)(2)(A)); ADU floor area is measured to the interior walls. On a multifamily lot a detached ADU has no size limit. Converting an existing detached garage or accessory building has no size limit either, but the only addition allowed is up to 150 sq ft for stairs or an entry. State law lets a city allow up to 1,200 sq ft (Gov. Code 66314(d)(5)), which the city's February 2025 summary did; if you want more than 800 sq ft on a single-family lot, ask the Planning Bureau (562-570-6194) before designing
SetbacksRear 4 ft for new construction, measured to the centerline of the alley where the lot abuts one (IB-PZ-001 Table 3 note b). A converted or rebuilt existing building keeps its existing setback if the Building Official and Fire Code Official find it sufficient for fire and life safety · Side 4 ft or the zoning district's side setback, whichever is less (IB-PZ-001 Table 3); conversions and same-footprint rebuilds keep the existing setback. Recorded utility easements and other recorded building restrictions still apply even where they exceed 4 ft
ParkingNone required if any of these apply: the ADU is within one-half mile walking distance of any transit stop (ADU Parking Exemption Map); in a historic district; converted from part of the house or an accessory building; on-street permits are required on the adjacent street but not offered to the ADU occupant; a car-share vehicle is within one-half mile; the ADU is filed with a new house or apartment building where any of those apply; it is a JADU; or the lot is inside the Parking Exempt Area established by LBMC 21.41.175 (IB-PZ-001, Parking). Otherwise one space per ADU, which may be tandem or in the driveway (Gov. Code 66314(d)(10)). No replacement parking is required when a garage, carport or driveway space is converted or demolished for an ADU (66314(d)(11))
Owner-occupancyNot required for an ADU (Gov. Code 66315). For a JADU the owner must live in the main house or the JADU only if the JADU shares a bathroom with the main house; a JADU with its own bathroom has no owner-occupancy requirement (IB-PZ-001; Gov. Code 66333(b) as amended by AB 1154, effective Jan 1, 2026). State JADU rules also call for a recorded deed restriction barring separate sale of the JADU (66333(c))

Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Long Beach? [10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19]

Yes. Every ADU in Long Beach needs a building permit. Applications are handled administratively — no public hearing.

Permit fees$5,500-$6,500 in city plan-check and permit fees for a 750-800 sq ft new ADU (derived from the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees effective 5/20/2026 and IB-077's $175.92 per sq ft R-3 valuation): combination building permit at 150% of the valuation-based permit fee ($1,264 for the first $100,000 of valuation plus $6 per $1,000 above, min $164), combination plan check at 85% of the permit fee (min $154), zoning plan check at 0.5% of valuation (min $310), NPDES at $2 per $1,000 plus 75% for plan check, a $115 processing fee per application, and 6% Technology and 6% General Plan surcharges on all applicable fees; expedited plan check costs 2x. The city's own guide: budget about 2% of construction cost for plan check, permits and inspections. Impact, school and sewer fees are extra
Typical timelineup to 60 days by state law; the city publishes no typical review time. A completeness determination is due within 15 business days and approval or denial within 60 days of a complete application, or the ADU is deemed approved (Gov. Code 66317, SB 543); pre-approved-plan ADUs can be approved over the counter and permitted the same day
Official Long Beach links:

Three things to know before you build in Long Beach

  • Stay at 750 sq ft or less of interior livable space: that avoids all city impact fees ($2,366 above 750 sq ft), and under 500 sq ft the LBUSD school fee as well
  • Stack units on a single-family lot: a garage or in-house conversion ADU, a new detached ADU up to 800 sq ft and a 500 sq ft JADU can all be permitted together
  • Most Long Beach lots need no ADU parking: check the ADU Parking Exemption Map (half-mile of any transit stop) and the Parking Exempt Area (LBMC 21.41.175) before drawing a space; a garage conversion never needs replacement parking

Last verified 2026-09-19 against Long Beach planning code. How we verify

Long Beach has no local ADU ordinance: Municipal Code 21.51.276 no longer applies, and the Planning Bureau reviews every ADU and JADU directly under state law (Gov. Code 66310-66342) as summarized in its Planning Information Bulletin IB-PZ-001; a replacement Chapter 21.16 ordinance was released as a public review draft in September 2025 and had not been adopted as of September 2026. On a single-family lot you may add one conversion ADU, one new detached ADU of up to 800 sq ft (Gov. Code 66323(a)(2)(A)) and one 500 sq ft JADU; an existing multifamily lot may add up to 8 detached ADUs with no size cap. Setbacks are 4 ft at the side and rear (the rear measured to the alley centerline), a detached ADU may be 16 ft tall (18 ft near major transit), no parking is required in most of the city, and no lot-coverage, FAR or open-space standard applies. Approval is ministerial: plans go in person to the Permit Center at 411 W. Ocean Blvd, state law requires a decision within 60 days of a complete application, city plan-check and permit fees run about $5,500-$6,500 for a 750-800 sq ft unit, and city impact fees total $2,366 only for an ADU over 750 sq ft.

Outside city limits? If your property is in unincorporated Los Angeles County (not within Long Beach's boundaries), different rules apply — see our Los Angeles County (unincorporated) ADU rules.

Zoning & Size Requirements [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

Yes — Long Beach allows ADUs. A detached ADU can typically be up to 800 sq ft under current California and Long Beach zoning rules.

See what this means for your lot — ask Long Beach ADU builders for a quote →

Allowed ZonesAny lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multifamily dwelling in a residential zone, or in a mixed-use zone, planned development district or specific plan that allows residential use (Gov. Code 66314(d)(2); city ADU Zoning Summary sec. II); the city does not limit ADUs by zoning district. What you may build turns on lot type: a single-family lot (one or more detached houses and no multifamily building) gets the single-family menu, a multifamily lot (two or more units in one building or attached buildings) gets the multifamily menu, and a lot with both cannot cross-apply them (IB-PZ-001, Lot Types). Check your zone on the city's What's My Zoning District? map
Max Size (Detached)800 sq ft for a new detached ADU on a single-family lot (IB-PZ-001 Table 1, applying Gov. Code 66323(a)(2)(A)); ADU floor area is measured to the interior walls. On a multifamily lot a detached ADU has no size limit. Converting an existing detached garage or accessory building has no size limit either, but the only addition allowed is up to 150 sq ft for stairs or an entry. State law lets a city allow up to 1,200 sq ft (Gov. Code 66314(d)(5)), which the city's February 2025 summary did; if you want more than 800 sq ft on a single-family lot, ask the Planning Bureau (562-570-6194) before designing
Max Size (Attached)50% of the primary home's floor area or 800 sq ft, whichever is more, counting only the new addition and not any converted part of the house (IB-PZ-001 Table 1, single-family lot). No size limit for an attached ADU built together with a new house, or for an ADU converted from part of the existing house. On a multifamily lot an attached ADU may only be converted from existing non-habitable space (storage rooms, garages, basements, boiler rooms) with no addition and no size limit (Gov. Code 66323(a)(3))
Max Size (JADU)500 sq ft, created only by converting part of the existing house or an existing attached garage; no addition is allowed for a JADU (IB-PZ-001 Table 1 note h; Gov. Code 66333(d)). Minimum 150 sq ft; an efficiency kitchen is required; it may share a bathroom with the main house. Allowed only on a single-family lot, never on a lot with a multifamily building
Max HeightNew detached ADU on any lot: 16 ft; 18 ft within one-half mile walking distance of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor (city ADU Height Exception Map) or where a multistory multifamily building already stands on the lot, plus up to 2 ft to match the main house's sloped roof (IB-PZ-001 Table 2; Gov. Code 66321(b)(4)). New attached ADU on a single-family lot: 25 ft or 2 stories, or the zone's height limit, whichever is less. Conversions keep the existing building height. Height is measured per LBMC 21.15.1330 and 21.15.1335
Max UnitsSingle-family lot: one conversion ADU (from the house or an accessory building) plus one new detached ADU plus one JADU, up to three added units (IB-PZ-001, Unit Type Combinations; Gov. Code 66323(a)(1)-(2)). Existing multifamily lot: up to 8 detached ADUs but no more than the number of existing permitted units, plus attached conversion ADUs of at least 1 or 25% of existing units, whichever is more; proposed multifamily building: 2 detached ADUs (66323(a)(3)-(4)). No JADU on any lot with a multifamily building. An SB 9 lot is capped at 4 units total: house, SB 9 unit, ADU and JADU

Setback Requirements [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

Long Beach requires a rear setback of about 4 ft for a detached ADU, and parking requirements vary by unit size or location. Owner-occupancy is not required — you can rent it out without living on the property.

Rear Setback4 ft for new construction, measured to the centerline of the alley where the lot abuts one (IB-PZ-001 Table 3 note b). A converted or rebuilt existing building keeps its existing setback if the Building Official and Fire Code Official find it sufficient for fire and life safety
Side Setback4 ft or the zoning district's side setback, whichever is less (IB-PZ-001 Table 3); conversions and same-footprint rebuilds keep the existing setback. Recorded utility easements and other recorded building restrictions still apply even where they exceed 4 ft
Front SetbackThe front (and street-side) setback of the zoning district; if there is no other way to fit an ADU of up to 800 sq ft on the lot, the ADU may encroach into the front setback to the minimum extent needed, subject to Building and Fire Code limits (IB-PZ-001 Table 3 note a). Conversions keep the existing setback
Parking RequiredNone required if any of these apply: the ADU is within one-half mile walking distance of any transit stop (ADU Parking Exemption Map); in a historic district; converted from part of the house or an accessory building; on-street permits are required on the adjacent street but not offered to the ADU occupant; a car-share vehicle is within one-half mile; the ADU is filed with a new house or apartment building where any of those apply; it is a JADU; or the lot is inside the Parking Exempt Area established by LBMC 21.41.175 (IB-PZ-001, Parking). Otherwise one space per ADU, which may be tandem or in the driveway (Gov. Code 66314(d)(10)). No replacement parking is required when a garage, carport or driveway space is converted or demolished for an ADU (66314(d)(11))
Owner OccupancyNot required for an ADU (Gov. Code 66315). For a JADU the owner must live in the main house or the JADU only if the JADU shares a bathroom with the main house; a JADU with its own bathroom has no owner-occupancy requirement (IB-PZ-001; Gov. Code 66333(b) as amended by AB 1154, effective Jan 1, 2026). State JADU rules also call for a recorded deed restriction barring separate sale of the JADU (66333(c))
Min Lot SizeNo minimum lot size: state law bars a minimum-lot-size standard for ADUs (Gov. Code 66314(b)(1)), and the city applies no lot coverage, open space, floor area ratio, landscaping, street tree or permeability standard to ADU projects (IB-PZ-001)

Permit Process & Fees [10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19]

An ADU permit in Long Beach goes through a ministerial, by-right review. Typical timeline: up to 60 days by state law; the city publishes no typical review time. A completeness determination is due within 15 business days and approval or denial within 60 days of a complete application, or the ADU is deemed approved (Gov. Code 66317, SB 543); pre-approved-plan ADUs can be approved over the counter and permitted the same day. Fees range from $5,500-$6,500 in city plan-check and permit fees for a 750-800 sq ft new ADU (derived from the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees effective 5/20/2026 and IB-077's $175.92 per sq ft R-3 valuation): combination building permit at 150% of the valuation-based permit fee ($1,264 for the first $100,000 of valuation plus $6 per $1,000 above, min $164), combination plan check at 85% of the permit fee (min $154), zoning plan check at 0.5% of valuation (min $310), NPDES at $2 per $1,000 plus 75% for plan check, a $115 processing fee per application, and 6% Technology and 6% General Plan surcharges on all applicable fees; expedited plan check costs 2x. The city's own guide: budget about 2% of construction cost for plan check, permits and inspections. Impact, school and sewer fees are extra.

Approval ProcessMinisterial building permit, no public hearing. 1) Read Planning Bulletin IB-PZ-001 and confirm your lot type and zone; in a historic district or on a landmark property a ministerial Certificate of Appropriateness is filed with the building permit application, and in the Coastal Zone an administrative Local Coastal Development Permit (no hearing) is required with it. 2) Submit in person at the Permit Center, 411 W. Ocean Blvd, 2nd floor (appointment or walk-in): the APP-001 permit application plus a complete plan set as one PDF on a USB drive; plan-check fees are due that day; online submittal is not offered. Simple projects may be reviewed over the counter, but not in a historic district, the Coastal Zone or with major structural engineering. 3) A planner and an engineer review concurrently; corrections are issued in writing and resubmitted to both; track status on the Plan Check Status page. 4) A ready-to-issue email, then the permit is issued in person and inspections are booked online at each phase. The application is not complete until every required plan, item and correction is supplied (IB-PZ-001, Application Requirements)
Review Timelineup to 60 days by state law; the city publishes no typical review time. A completeness determination is due within 15 business days and approval or denial within 60 days of a complete application, or the ADU is deemed approved (Gov. Code 66317, SB 543); pre-approved-plan ADUs can be approved over the counter and permitted the same day
Permit Fees$5,500-$6,500 in city plan-check and permit fees for a 750-800 sq ft new ADU (derived from the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees effective 5/20/2026 and IB-077's $175.92 per sq ft R-3 valuation): combination building permit at 150% of the valuation-based permit fee ($1,264 for the first $100,000 of valuation plus $6 per $1,000 above, min $164), combination plan check at 85% of the permit fee (min $154), zoning plan check at 0.5% of valuation (min $310), NPDES at $2 per $1,000 plus 75% for plan check, a $115 processing fee per application, and 6% Technology and 6% General Plan surcharges on all applicable fees; expedited plan check costs 2x. The city's own guide: budget about 2% of construction cost for plan check, permits and inspections. Impact, school and sewer fees are extra
Impact FeesNone for an ADU of 750 sq ft or less of interior livable space or a JADU of 500 sq ft or less (Gov. Code 66311.5(c), SB 543). Above 750 sq ft the city's Development Impact Fee schedule (effective 10/1/2025) charges ADU rates of $241.74 Fire, $1,781.39 Parks and Recreation and $342.86 Police per unit, $2,366 in total; the Transportation Improvement Fee lists $236.25 for an accessory unit up to 220 sq ft and $663.75 up to 640 sq ft (ask the Permit Center for larger units). Long Beach Utilities' sewer capacity fee is $144.34 (rate effective 10/1/2025) and may apply to a new detached unit but not to a conversion of existing space (66311.5(d)); LBUSD school developer fees apply to an ADU of 500 sq ft or more (rate at lbschools.net/developerfees), none below 500 sq ft (66311.5(c)(3))
Plan CheckCombination plan check (building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical in one review) at 85% of the building permit fee, min $154; expedited review at 2x halves the turnaround; each recheck is 50% of the permit fee, min $286. Bring the APP-001 application, a FORM-028 plot plan, the full plan set as a single PDF, a site-specific Title 24 energy report (CF-1R) and, for new construction, one Low Impact Development stormwater measure on the plans (IB-068). Fire sprinklers are required only if the main house has them (Gov. Code 66314(d)(12)); a new detached ADU generally needs rooftop solar under the California Energy Code, permitted separately; a PAADU submittal must show 200 A minimum electric service (IB-068)
Pre-Approved PlansYes, but paused. The Pre-Approved ADU (PAADU) Program (Building & Safety IB-068, rev. 1/27/2025) offers single-story, detached, all-electric standard plans under 1,200 sq ft for new construction only; a site-specific submittal is reviewed over the counter and the permit can issue the same day. The plan approvals previously listed (an 800 sq ft single-story design in four foundation and patio variants) expired December 31, 2025, and the city says the program is currently undergoing changes with no plan list published as of June 2026; check the PAADU page or email PlanCheck.Counter@longbeach.gov before choosing a plan

Get Free ADU Quotes in Long Beach

Tell us about your project and we'll pass it to ADU builders serving Long Beach. Free, no obligation — you choose who to work with. We don't have builders in every area yet; if nobody covers yours, we'll email you to say so.

1. Tell us your project
Takes about a minute.
2. We match local pros
Up to 5 independent local ADU builders — never more, and we tell them nothing you don't submit here.
3. You choose
Compare quotes, verify license & insurance, hire (or don't). No spam either way.

+ Add project details (optional — helps builders quote faster)
+ Add budget (optional — helps builders scope the right design)

🔒 Your info is secure. We share it only with contractors quoting your project. No spam, no obligation.

Just browsing? Search ADU builders near you by ZIP code.

Construction Costs [20][21][22][23]

Building an ADU in Long Beach typically costs $215,000-$400,000 ($310-$450 per sq ft); a garage conversion runs $90,000-$180,000.

See what this means for your lot — ask Long Beach ADU builders for a quote →

Average Build Cost$215,000-$400,000
Cost per Sq Ft$310-$450
Garage Conversion$90,000-$180,000
Prefab ADU (Installed)$90,000-$300,000

Finance Your ADU Project

Most ADU projects are funded through HELOCs, construction loans, or cash-out refinancing. Compare rates from top lenders.

Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Rental Income Potential [24][25][26][27]

A 2-bedroom ADU in Long Beach rents for around $2,400-$3,100/mo, an estimated 6-10% gross rental yield (before taxes, vacancy and financing).

Avg Rent (1 Bedroom)$1,800-$2,400/mo
Avg Rent (2 Bedroom)$2,400-$3,100/mo
Short-Term RentalNo.
Est. Annual ROI6-10% gross rental yield (before taxes, vacancy and financing)

Explore Prefab ADU Options

Prefab ADUs can save 20-40% vs. traditional construction and cut build time in half.

Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Recent Law Changes

What's Changed Recently

  • No local ADU ordinance as of September 2026: the public comment period on the Chapter 21.16 Inland ADU Ordinance public review draft (September 2025) closed November 23, 2025, and Planning Commission and City Council hearings are still pending; until adoption the city reviews ADUs directly under state law per Planning Bulletin IB-PZ-001, and the old LBMC 21.51.276 no longer applies
  • Building Permit & Plan Check Fees and IB-077 construction valuations updated effective May 20, 2026 (R-3 wood-frame valuation $175.92 per sq ft); Development Impact Fees (ADU rates $241.74 Fire, $1,781.39 Parks, $342.86 Police) and the $144.34 sewer capacity fee took effect October 1, 2025
  • Backyard Builders round two (announced April 15, 2026): 30-year, 2% deferred-payment loans of up to $250,000 for income-qualified owner-occupants in the program area to design, permit and build an ADU; at least 16 loans, applications opening Summer 2026 with a lottery if oversubscribed
  • Pre-Approved ADU (PAADU) plan approvals expired December 31, 2025; the city says the program is being reworked and had not published a new plan list as of June 2026
  • SB 543 (Jan 1, 2026): 15-business-day completeness check and 60-day deemed approval (Gov. Code 66317); impact-fee exemption now keyed to 750 sq ft of interior livable space for ADUs and 500 sq ft for JADUs (66311.5). AB 1154 (Jan 1, 2026): JADU owner-occupancy only when the JADU shares a bathroom, now reflected in IB-PZ-001. SB 1211 (2025): up to 8 detached ADUs on existing multifamily lots
  • City Short-Term Rental rules bar ADUs and JADUs from STR registration; the STR ordinance itself is under review for possible updates (city STR page, July 2026)

Tips for Building an ADU in Long Beach

  • Stay at 750 sq ft or less of interior livable space: that avoids all city impact fees ($2,366 above 750 sq ft), and under 500 sq ft the LBUSD school fee as well
  • Stack units on a single-family lot: a garage or in-house conversion ADU, a new detached ADU up to 800 sq ft and a 500 sq ft JADU can all be permitted together
  • Most Long Beach lots need no ADU parking: check the ADU Parking Exemption Map (half-mile of any transit stop) and the Parking Exempt Area (LBMC 21.41.175) before drawing a space; a garage conversion never needs replacement parking
  • Alley lots: the 4 ft rear setback is measured to the alley centerline, so a detached unit can sit closer to the rear property line, and alley access shortens utility runs
  • Coastal Zone and historic district parcels lose over-the-counter review: file the administrative Local Coastal Development Permit or the Certificate of Appropriateness with the building permit application (no hearing either way)
  • Bring everything on a USB drive: the Permit Center takes ADU plans in person only, plan-check fees are due the same day, and an incomplete set stops the state 60-day clock
  • Lower-income owner-occupants: watch for the Backyard Builders round-two application window (Summer 2026): up to $250,000 at 2% with payments deferred 30 years, plus free project management
  • If you convert a garage and the remaining driveway cannot hold a code-compliant parking stall, the city's ADU Zoning Summary (Feb 2025, sec. IV.A) requires removing the unused curb cut and landscaping the old driveway; confirm the current requirement with Planning (562-570-6194)
  • Cost basis (2026-09-19 re-verification): avg build cost $215,000-$400,000 for a 500-800 sq ft new detached ADU (Renology, April 2026, $215,000-$385,000 mid-range; c2mod, April 2026, $200,000-$400,000+; ADU Wizard 2026 $260,000-$500,000 for 500-1,200 sq ft) | cost per sq ft $310-$450 (c2mod $350-$450; ADU Wizard $310-$540 detached, $240-$400 conversions) | garage conversion $90,000-$180,000 (ADU Wizard $70,000-$150,000; c2mod $100,000-$180,000; Renology $130,000-$215,000) | prefab $90,000-$300,000 installed (ADU Wizard $90,000-$220,000 for 500-900 sq ft; one prefab maker's Long Beach guide quotes all-in from $298,800). City fee example derived from the 5/20/2026 schedule: about $5,800 for an 800 sq ft detached ADU valued at IB-077's $175.92 per sq ft, before impact, school and sewer fees
  • Cost basis (2026-09-19 re-verification): short term allowed: No. ADUs and JADUs are not qualified dwelling units under the city's Short-Term Rental program and may not be registered or operated as short-term rentals (city STR page, LBCD Code Enforcement); state law also requires ADU and JADU rentals to run longer than 30 days (Gov. Code 66323(e), 66333(g))

ADU Builders in Long Beach

Looking for an ADU builder in Long Beach? ADU projects need a contractor experienced with local zoning, the permit process, and utility connections — not every general contractor has built one. We match Long Beach homeowners with experienced local ADU contractors who provide free, no-obligation quotes. Getting at least three bids typically saves 20-40% on the same scope.

Sources & References

All data on this page is sourced from official government records and verified market data. View our full methodology.

  1. IB-PZ-001 Planning ADU Bulletin: Accessory Dwelling Units Review and Approval per State ADU Law (Tables 1-3) | City of Long Beach Planning Bureau Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  2. Accessory Dwelling Units: How to Start (ADU/JADU, SB 9, Urban Lot Split) | City of Long Beach Community Development Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  3. ADU and SB 9 Development (ordinance status, public comment closed 11/23/2025) | City of Long Beach Planning Bureau Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  4. Summary of Accessory Dwelling Unit Zoning Regulations, v28 (effective Oct 1, 2024; February 2025 notice) | City of Long Beach Planning Bureau Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  5. Chapter 21.16 Accessory Dwelling Units, Public Review Draft (September 2025) | City of Long Beach Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  6. California Government Code 66314 (ADU standards; AB 1170, eff. Jan 1, 2026) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  7. California Government Code 66321 (size and height floors; SB 543, eff. Jan 1, 2026) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  8. California Government Code 66323 (statewide-exemption ADUs; SB 543, eff. Jan 1, 2026) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  9. California Government Code 66333 (JADU owner-occupancy; AB 1154, eff. Jan 1, 2026) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  10. Building Permit & Plan Check Fees, fee changes effective 5/20/2026 | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  11. Development Impact Fees, effective 10/1/2025 (Fire, Parks, Police ADU rates; Transportation; Sewer Capacity) | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  12. Sewer Capacity Fee increase to $144.34 effective October 1, 2025 | City of Long Beach / Long Beach Utilities Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  13. Fee Schedules (2% rule of thumb, 6% Technology and 6% General Plan surcharges, $115 processing fee, LBUSD fees) | City of Long Beach Community Development Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  14. IB-077 Construction Valuation, eff. 05-20-2026 (R-3 Type VB $175.92/sq ft) | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  15. IB-044 Developer Fees Guide, rev. 01-12-2026 | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  16. IB-068 Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program, rev. 01-27-2025 | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  17. Pre-Approved ADU Program (PAADU) page: program undergoing changes | City of Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  18. California Government Code 66317 (ministerial approval, 15-business-day completeness, 60-day deemed approval; SB 543) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  19. CA SB 543 (2025-2026), chaptered text incl. Gov. Code 66311.5 impact-fee and utility-charge limits Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  20. How Much Does an ADU Cost in Long Beach in 2026? | ADU Wizard industry — Accessed 2026-09-19
  21. ADU Construction Cost in Long Beach 2026 (updated April 2026) | Renology industry — Accessed 2026-09-19
  22. How much does an ADU cost in Long Beach? (April 10, 2026) | c2mod industry — Accessed 2026-09-19
  23. Long Beach ADU Guide 2026: prefab pricing | Abodu industry — Accessed 2026-09-19
  24. Long Beach, CA Rent Research: median rents as of September 19, 2026 | Zumper Market Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  25. Average Rent in Long Beach, CA (last updated August 31, 2026) | RentCafe Market Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  26. HUD FY2026 Fair Market Rents, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale HUD Metro FMR Area (1BR $2,085, 2BR $2,601) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  27. Short-Term Rentals (STRs): ADUs and JADUs not qualified dwelling units | City of Long Beach Code Enforcement Planning Department — Accessed 2026-09-19
  28. City Announces Second Round of Backyard Builders Loan Program (press release 04152026-1) | City of Long Beach Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19
  29. California HCD Accessory Dwelling Unit Handbook (state guidance the city applies directly) Government Data — Accessed 2026-09-19

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build an ADU in Long Beach?

Yes. ADUs are allowed in Any lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multifamily dwelling in a residential zone, or in a mixed-use zone, planned development district or specific plan that allows residential use (Gov. Code 66314(d)(2); city ADU Zoning Summary sec. II); the city does not limit ADUs by zoning district. What you may build turns on lot type: a single-family lot (one or more detached houses and no multifamily building) gets the single-family menu, a multifamily lot (two or more units in one building or attached buildings) gets the multifamily menu, and a lot with both cannot cross-apply them (IB-PZ-001, Lot Types). Check your zone on the city's What's My Zoning District? map in Long Beach. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 800 sq ft for a new detached ADU on a single-family lot (IB-PZ-001 Table 1, applying Gov. Code 66323(a)(2)(A)); ADU floor area is measured to the interior walls. On a multifamily lot a detached ADU has no size limit. Converting an existing detached garage or accessory building has no size limit either, but the only addition allowed is up to 150 sq ft for stairs or an entry. State law lets a city allow up to 1,200 sq ft (Gov. Code 66314(d)(5)), which the city's February 2025 summary did; if you want more than 800 sq ft on a single-family lot, ask the Planning Bureau (562-570-6194) before designing. Owner-occupancy is not required, so you can rent out the ADU.

How much does an ADU cost in Long Beach?

ADU construction in Long Beach typically costs $215,000-$400,000. Garage conversions run $90,000-$180,000, and prefab ADUs cost $90,000-$300,000.

How much can I rent an ADU for in Long Beach?

Average ADU rents in Long Beach are $1,800-$2,400/mo for a 1-bedroom and $2,400-$3,100/mo for a 2-bedroom unit.

Do I need parking for an ADU in Long Beach?

None required if any of these apply: the ADU is within one-half mile walking distance of any transit stop (ADU Parking Exemption Map); in a historic district; converted from part of the house or an accessory building; on-street permits are required on the adjacent street but not offered to the ADU occupant; a car-share vehicle is within one-half mile; the ADU is filed with a new house or apartment building where any of those apply; it is a JADU; or the lot is inside the Parking Exempt Area established by LBMC 21.41.175 (IB-PZ-001, Parking). Otherwise one space per ADU, which may be tandem or in the driveway (Gov. Code 66314(d)(10)). No replacement parking is required when a garage, carport or driveway space is converted or demolished for an ADU (66314(d)(11)). Check with Long Beach planning department for the latest California ADU parking rules, as many states have relaxed requirements in recent years.

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Long Beach?

The permit review timeline in Long Beach is up to 60 days by state law; the city publishes no typical review time. A completeness determination is due within 15 business days and approval or denial within 60 days of a complete application, or the ADU is deemed approved (Gov. Code 66317, SB 543); pre-approved-plan ADUs can be approved over the counter and permitted the same day. Fees range from $5,500-$6,500 in city plan-check and permit fees for a 750-800 sq ft new ADU (derived from the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees effective 5/20/2026 and IB-077's $175.92 per sq ft R-3 valuation): combination building permit at 150% of the valuation-based permit fee ($1,264 for the first $100,000 of valuation plus $6 per $1,000 above, min $164), combination plan check at 85% of the permit fee (min $154), zoning plan check at 0.5% of valuation (min $310), NPDES at $2 per $1,000 plus 75% for plan check, a $115 processing fee per application, and 6% Technology and 6% General Plan surcharges on all applicable fees; expedited plan check costs 2x. The city's own guide: budget about 2% of construction cost for plan check, permits and inspections. Impact, school and sewer fees are extra.

Ready to Build in Long Beach?

Get free, no-obligation quotes from top-rated ADU contractors in Long Beach.

Get Free Quotes →

Build ADUs in Long Beach?

Homeowners read this page while planning, then ask us to connect them with a local builder. We pass those requests to builders who cover Long Beach — a flat fee only on the leads you accept, no subscription, and you contract directly with the homeowner.

See who's waiting in California →

ADU Guides for Long Beach Homeowners

FAQ

Long Beach ADU FAQ

Answers to every common question about building an ADU in Long Beach — costs, rules, permits, rental income.

Read FAQ → Cost Guide

Long Beach ADU Costs

Detailed cost breakdown: construction $215,000-$400,000, garage conversion $90,000-$180,000, plus ROI analysis.

See full breakdown →

Garage Conversion ADU Guide

Complete guide to costs ($80K-$180K), impact fee savings, and permits for garage-to-ADU conversions.

Read guide →

California ADU Laws 2026

AB 462, AB 1154, SB 9 — every new law affecting ADU construction in California this year.

Read update →
About this information: This page is an informational summary of publicly available regulations - it is not legal, financial, or professional advice, and it is not a substitute for confirming requirements with your local planning department. Rules change frequently; always verify current requirements before designing, budgeting, or building. Last verified: 2026-09-19. Contractors we introduce are independent businesses - verify license and insurance directly before hiring. Spotted an error? Tell us - we verify against primary sources and correct quickly.

Stay Updated on ADU Law Changes

Get notified when ADU regulations change in your city. Free — no spam, unsubscribe anytime.