Burbank ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Burbank is a vibrant city in Southern California known for its unique charm and diverse population. It offers a blend of urban and suburban experiences.

California State ADU Laws

California has some of the most progressive ADU legislation in the country. Recent laws including AB 68, SB 13, and AB 881 have significantly streamlined the ADU approval process and reduced barriers for homeowners.

Key California ADU Regulations:

• Size Limits: Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less.
• Setbacks: Minimum 4-foot side and rear setbacks for detached ADUs.
• Height: Generally up to 16 feet, with some exceptions for two-story ADUs (up to 25 feet in certain zones).
• Parking: No additional parking required in most cases, especially near transit.
• Owner Occupancy: No owner-occupancy requirement until 2025 for most ADUs.

Burbank Local Requirements

While California state law provides baseline regulations, Burbank may have additional local requirements. GatherADU's team stays current with Burbank's specific zoning codes, architectural guidelines, and permit processes to ensure your ADU project meets all requirements.

Common local considerations in Burbank include:

• Design review requirements and architectural standards
• Utility connection fees and impact fees
• Fire department access requirements
• Neighborhood-specific overlay zones

California law (AB 68, AB 881, SB 9, and subsequent legislation) guarantees your right to build ADUs. Cities cannot:

• Require owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after 2020
• Require additional parking for ADUs near transit
• Charge impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft
• Deny ADUs that meet state minimum standards
• Impose lot coverage limits that prevent a 800 sq ft ADU

If you believe your ADU application is being unfairly denied, California HCD can intervene on your behalf.

California ADU Legislation Overview

California leads the nation in ADU-friendly legislation. The state has passed numerous laws to encourage ADU construction as a solution to the housing crisis.

Key California ADU Laws:

• AB 68 (2020): Reduced local government review time and expanded ADU construction options.
• SB 13 (2020): Limited impact fees and reduced owner-occupancy requirements.
• AB 881 (2020): Prohibited minimum lot size requirements and allowed JADUs in all zones.
• AB 2221 (2022): Further streamlined the ADU approval process.
• SB 897 (2022): Increased height limits for ADUs in certain zones.

California ADU Benefits:

• Property value increase of 20-30% on average
• Rental income potential of $1,500-$3,500+ monthly
• Housing flexibility for family members
• No owner-occupancy requirements (until 2025)

Burbank, located in Los Angeles County, California, is a city renowned for its vibrant entertainment industry, family-friendly environment, and strong community spirit. Known as the media capital of the world due to the presence of major studios like Warner Bros. and Disney, Burbank offers a dynamic urban experience with diverse housing options, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and it's population is approximately 104,834 residents.

Geography and History

Burbank is situated in the southeastern part of the San Fernando Valley, bordered by the cities of Glendale, North Hollywood, and the Verdugo Mountains. Established in the early 20th century, Burbank has evolved from a small agricultural town into a bustling urban center with a strong emphasis on media and entertainment.

Local Economy

Burbank’s economy is driven by several key sectors:

• Entertainment Industry: Major studios and production companies contribute significantly to the local economy, including Warner Bros., Disney, and NBCUniversal.
• Retail and Services: The city features a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, and service providers.
• Healthcare: Several medical facilities and clinics serve the community, including Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center.
• Professional Services: Includes businesses in legal, financial, and real estate sectors.
• Education: Burbank Unified School District and local educational institutions provide employment and contribute to the city’s intellectual capital.

Popular Neighborhoods

Burbank is home to a range of neighborhoods, each offering distinct characteristics:

• Downtown Burbank: Known for its bustling atmosphere, shopping, dining options, and entertainment venues.
• Magnolia Park: Features charming vintage homes and a strong community feel, with local shops and parks.
• North Burbank: Offers a suburban atmosphere with well-established residential areas and access to parks.
• Media District: Home to the city’s entertainment studios and a mix of residential and commercial properties.
• Rancho Adjacent: A quiet, family-friendly neighborhood with a variety of housing styles and proximity to schools.

Real Estate Market

Burbank’s real estate market is competitive, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The market is influenced by the city’s strong economic base and desirable location. While home prices have fluctuated over time, Burbank remains a sought-after area for both buyers and renters.

ADU Regulations in Burbank

Burbank has established regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to meet housing needs and support residential development:

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in residential zones and certain mixed-use areas, subject to city-specific regulations.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed, including conversions of existing structures and Junior ADUs (JADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sqft.
  • Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area or 1,200 sqft, whichever is less.
  • JADUs: Up to 500 sqft.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs generally have a height limit of 16 feet, with possible exceptions for certain designs.
• Parking: Generally, no additional parking is required for ADUs, especially if the property is located near public transit or if the ADU is within an existing structure.
• Owner Occupancy: As of 2020, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for newly constructed ADUs, allowing for more flexible rental options.
• Approval Process: ADUs meeting specific criteria may benefit from a streamlined approval process, including ministerial review.
• Multiple ADUs: In multi-family properties, additional ADUs may be allowed, depending on zoning regulations and existing structures.
• Impact Fees: Impact fees for ADUs are typically reduced to encourage development, particularly for smaller units.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to blend with the primary residence and neighborhood character, including architectural consistency and materials.

These regulations aim to increase housing options in Burbank while maintaining the city’s unique character and supporting community growth.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Burbank is known for several distinctive features and landmarks:

• Entertainment Studios: Home to major studios such as Warner Bros., Disney, and NBCUniversal, making Burbank a hub for the media and entertainment industry.
• Burbank Town Center: A popular shopping and dining destination in the heart of downtown Burbank.
• Walt Disney Studios: A historic site and major player in the entertainment industry, offering tours and cultural significance.
• Verdugo Mountains: Provides scenic views, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Conclusion

Burbank’s ADU regulations reflect the city’s commitment to addressing housing needs while preserving its unique character and supporting its vibrant economy. With its diverse neighborhoods, strong entertainment industry presence, and community amenities, Burbank is well-positioned to benefit from the flexibility and innovation provided by ADUs. The city’s approach demonstrates a balanced strategy to enhance housing options and support residential growth in a dynamic urban environment.

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