Does Pasadena Allow ADU Construction?

What Does Pasadena Allow For ADUs?

Yes, Pasadena absolutely allows the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties. In fact, because of California state laws, the city is required to allow them on almost all lots that are zoned for residential use and contain an existing or proposed home.

Even if you have a single-family home in Pasadena, you can for the most part have one or two ADUs on the property. The actual number of ADUs allowed on multi-family properties depends on the type of ADU constructed and how many dwelling units are already on the property. The good news from Pasadena is that your property can be any size and be eligible for an ADU.

As of January 2026, there are some important regulatory updates and specific local rules with which you should be familiar:

1. 2026 Regulation Updates

• Building Code Changes: As of January 1, 2026, California updated its building codes. This caused Pasadena’s previous "Standard Plans" (pre-approved designs) to expire. The city is currently updating these to match the new 2026 codes.

• Faster Approvals: New state laws (like SB 543) now require the city to approve or deny ADU applications within 60 days. If they don't respond in time, the application can be "deemed approved."

• Unpermitted Units: If you have an existing unpermitted ADU built before 2020, there is a streamlined path to legalizing it without heavy penalties, provided it meets health and safety standards.

2. Key Construction Requirements

• Size Limits: * Detached: Generally up to 800–1,200 sq. ft. (larger sizes often depend on your lot size and number of bedrooms).

• Attached: Can be up to 50% of the primary home's square footage.
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• Junior ADUs (JADUs): Capped at 500 sq. ft. and must be contained within the existing home.
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• Setbacks: You must maintain at least a 4-foot setback from the side and rear property lines.

• Height: Standard height is usually 16 feet, though it can go up to 18–25 feet if you are near major transit stops.
• Parking: No additional parking is required if your property is within half a mile of public transit (which covers much of Pasadena).

3. Potential Challenges in Pasadena

• Historic Districts: if your property is in a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) or a landmark district, you will face additional design reviews to ensure the ADU matches the architectural character of the neighborhood.

• Hillside Areas: If you are in the Pasadena hills, there are stricter "Hillside Development" rules regarding grading, visibility, and size.

SGV ADU Construction Contractors is happy to address your questions about ADU construction in Pasadena as well as give you a free estimate for your proposed project.  Call us at 626-900-0952