Inglewood ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Inglewood 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.

Inglewood Local Requirements

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

Common local considerations in Inglewood 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)

Inglewood, California, is a vibrant city located in Los Angeles County, known for its rich cultural diversity and ongoing urban development. With a population of around 109,419 residents, Inglewood is experiencing significant growth and revitalization, making it a key player in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Geography and History

Situated approximately 10 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, Inglewood has a history of being a prominent residential and commercial hub. Its proximity to major transportation routes and cultural landmarks contributes to its appeal and ongoing development.

Local Economy

Inglewood’s economy is diverse and evolving, reflecting the city's dynamic nature:

• Entertainment: The city is home to major venues like SoFi Stadium and The Forum, contributing to its entertainment and tourism sectors.
• Retail and Services: Local shopping centers and service businesses cater to the community’s needs.
• Healthcare: Inglewood is served by several healthcare facilities, including the Centinela Hospital Medical Center.
• Education: The city’s educational institutions, including Inglewood High School and other local schools, play a significant role in community development.
• Real Estate and Development: Inglewood’s real estate market is buoyed by ongoing development projects and revitalization efforts.

Popular Neighborhoods

Inglewood offers a range of neighborhoods, each with its unique characteristics:

• Downtown Inglewood: Features a mix of historic and modern architecture, with a growing number of restaurants and entertainment options.
• Morningside Park: Known for its residential charm and proximity to parks and schools.
• North Inglewood: A predominantly residential area with a variety of housing options and community amenities.
• Fairview Heights: Offers a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes, with access to local parks and shopping centers.
• La Tijera Village: A neighborhood with a suburban feel, known for its family-friendly environment and local amenities.

Real Estate Market

Inglewood’s real estate market has seen significant activity, driven by both residential and commercial development. Housing options include single-family homes, apartments, and newly constructed properties. The market is competitive, with rising property values influenced by ongoing urban development and proximity to major Los Angeles attractions.

ADU Regulations in Inglewood

Inglewood has established specific regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to address housing needs and streamline development:

• Zoning: ADUs are allowed in all residential zones and some mixed-use zones with residential components.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are permitted, including conversions of existing structures and Junior ADUs (JADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sqft or 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area, whichever is less.
  • 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 are generally limited to 16 feet in height, though exceptions may apply for specific designs.
• Parking: Generally, no additional parking is required for ADUs if they are located within half a mile of public transit. In other cases, one additional parking space may be required.
• Owner Occupancy: There is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs built as of January 1, 2020. However, JADUs must comply with owner-occupancy rules.
• Approval Process: ADUs that meet certain criteria are eligible for streamlined approval, including ministerial review.
• Multiple ADUs: On multi-family properties, up to two detached ADUs are allowed, or ADUs for 25% of the existing units within the structure, whichever is greater.
• Impact Fees: Impact fees for ADUs are reduced to encourage development, particularly for smaller units.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to complement the primary residence and fit the neighborhood’s character, including architectural style and materials.

These regulations aim to increase housing availability in Inglewood while ensuring that new developments align with the city’s aesthetic and community standards.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

Inglewood is notable for its cultural and entertainment landmarks:

• SoFi Stadium: A major sports and entertainment venue that hosts NFL games, concerts, and other events.
• The Forum: An iconic venue known for its history in music and entertainment, recently renovated for modern use.
• Inglewood’s Cultural Diversity: The city’s rich cultural tapestry is reflected in its festivals, restaurants, and community events.

Inglewood’s ADU regulations reflect the city’s commitment to expanding housing options while supporting its ongoing development and revitalization efforts. With its vibrant neighborhoods, major entertainment venues, and dynamic real estate market, Inglewood is positioned as a key player in the Los Angeles area. The city’s approach to ADUs underscores its dedication to providing flexible housing solutions and supporting community growth as it continues to evolve.

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