The growing interest in ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) offers homeowners in Gardena exciting opportunities to increase their property value, provide rental income, and create additional living space. Whether you're looking to build a detached unit, a Junior ADU (JADU), or convert part of your existing home, understanding the city’s regulations is essential. Below, we’ll dive into the key aspects of Gardena's ADU policies, which are designed to provide homeowners with flexibility while maintaining community safety and aesthetic standards.
1. Zoning & Permitted Uses
Gardena permits ADUs on both single-family and multi-family properties. This flexibility allows a wide range of property owners—from those in residential neighborhoods to developers in multi-unit zones—to take advantage of ADU construction. By allowing these units in both zones, Gardena supports the growth of housing options throughout the city.
2. Size Limitations for ADUs and JADUs
The size of ADUs in Gardena is subject to several restrictions based on the type of unit you wish to build. Detached ADUs can be as large as 1,200 square feet, providing ample space for a comfortable living area. For attached ADUs, the total square footage is capped at 50% of the primary residence's size. For those opting for a JADU—a smaller, attached unit—these are limited to 500 square feet, making them ideal for studio apartments or guest rooms. These size limits offer both flexibility for larger families or rental properties while keeping units appropriately sized for the area.
3. Building Height & Setback Requirements
In Gardena, ADUs generally follow the city's height and setback standards. Detached ADUs are typically restricted to a one-story height to maintain their secondary status relative to the main house. Side and rear setbacks usually require a minimum of 4 feet, which allows for adequate spacing between structures, ensuring safety, light, and air circulation around the property.
4. Parking Requirements
Parking regulations for ADUs can vary based on proximity to transit hubs and the availability of street parking. If your ADU is located near public transportation, you may be exempt from additional parking requirements. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for homeowners who want to add an ADU without making significant modifications to their property for parking. For properties not near transit, standard parking rules may apply, requiring homeowners to provide adequate off-street parking for their new unit.
5. Architectural Design Consistency
To preserve the character of Gardena's neighborhoods, the city requires that ADUs blend harmoniously with the primary residence. This means that new ADUs must match the design, color, and roofing materials of the main house. This regulation ensures that the addition of an ADU does not disrupt the architectural integrity of the surrounding area, maintaining the aesthetic appeal and value of properties in Gardena.
6. Owner Occupancy & Rental Policies
Gardena’s regulations stipulate that for JADUs, the property owner must live on-site in either the main home or the JADU itself. However, there is no such requirement for detached ADUs—meaning homeowners can rent out these units. This flexibility makes ADUs an excellent option for generating rental income. However, the city does not allow short-term rentals (typically under 30 days) for these units to prevent them from being used as vacation rentals, helping to maintain the character of residential neighborhoods.
7. Impact Fees & Utility Connections
For those building smaller ADUs (under 750 square feet), Gardena offers financial relief by exempting these units from impact fees. This makes smaller ADUs more affordable to build, reducing upfront costs for homeowners. For larger units, impact fees may apply based on the unit's size and the property’s existing infrastructure. As for utilities, ADUs are often allowed to share connections with the main home, though some larger units may require separate connections.
Final Thoughts: What You Need to Know About Building an ADU in Gardena
Gardena’s ADU regulations provide a balanced approach that benefits homeowners looking to maximize the potential of their property. Whether you’re building a detached ADU for rental income or converting part of your home into a JADU, these policies help ensure that the process is efficient, cost-effective, and in harmony with the community’s overall aesthetic.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently plan your ADU construction project in Gardena, knowing that your project will meet all city requirements. For more details, be sure to consult the official Gardena ADU Summary Chart.
If you're wondering about how long it takes to build an adu, the timeline varies based on your project's scope and complexity, but it's always best to consult with experts for an accurate estimate. For details on ADU types and more information about the types of ADUs, make sure to review the city’s guidelines.
For expert guidance on ADU construction and more, reach out to SKS Construction. With years of experience, SKS contractors can help bring your projects to life. You can also check out SKS Construction reviews to learn more about the quality of their work.
