Glendale ADU Policy is dense, chewy, and filled with policy jargon. I extracted these points from the updated Glendale ADU policy released in January 2022. There was a subsequent review letter from the HCD (3/22)- I will add my thoughts on that letter below.
Before you start reading, Glendale wants to preserve the architectural character of the city. ADU DIGGS was born with that same priority- we live and work in Glendale! Our ADUs are designed to blend and enhance Glendale homes and neighborhoods. Please visit our models HERE.
Glendale ADU Policy Highlights
ADU Size and Height Limitations in Glendale
Detached ADU can be up to 850 SF or 1,000 SF for 2+ bedrooms. If it is less than 750 SF, it is exempt from impact fees. Height is limited to 16 feet- enough for high ceilings or maybe a loft, but not enough for two stories.
Setback Rules for Glendale ADUs
Setback rules follow state-mandated rules- 4 feet from the back and sides. Separation from the main home isn’t specified, so we assume the normal building code applies. This is five feet from the outside edge, so assume 6 ft. to account for eaves, etc.
Junior ADUs in Glendale
JADUs are allowed. The homeowner must live on the property. If you add to your home to create a JADU you are limited to 50% of the original area of the home.
Parking Requirements for Glendale ADUs
The rules for ADU parking follows state mandate. No replacement or additional off-street parking is required if a public transportation stop is within 1/2 mile of walking distance or in a historic district.
Two Story ADUs in Glendale
Two-story ADUs are not allowed in Glendale. This includes a second story over a garage or any other structure.
ADUs for Historic Neighborhoods in Glendale
ADUs are allowed in designated historic neighborhoods and at properties registered on the Historic Home Registry. The ADU must not be visible from the street, and it must be architecturally compatible.
Glendale ADUs as Short-Term Rentals
ADUs must be rented for 30 days or more. Shorter rental terms are not allowed.
Multi-Unit ADU Rules in Glendale
- EITHER- 1 detached ADU and conversion of up to 25% of the existing non-living space to ADU units(s)
- OR – two detached ADUs that may be attached to each other (duplex). One story only and 4 ft set back
- No JADU allowed
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HCD Review Letter of Glendale ADU Policy
The HCD (Department of Housing and Community Development) sent a Review Letter, March 25, 2022.
They cited the sections of the Glendale ADU policy that conflicted with California’s ADU policy. It does not look (to me) that the city has fully incorporated the recommendations by the HCD into the current Glendale ADU policy. Yet.
Here is what the HCD wanted:
- If you are on a corner lot, the original rules sounded like you couldn’t build your ADU on the side yard. The HCD said that was silly. They actually said that rule was “impermissibly onerous”. It looks like Glendale changed that rule.
- There is a very narrow exception to the separate sale of an ADU – you can sell it to a “qualified non-profit corporation”. The city still does not reflect this narrow exception.
- Historic District – this is a big one. Glendale ADU policy imposes additional restrictions on properties designated as a Glendale Historic Property. This is not allowed- they can only restrict properties on the state recognized registry of historic places. Glendale did not change the rules to include this correction.
It’s a LOT, isn’t it?! We can make this a lot easier. Click to schedule your FREE consultation. We make building gorgeous ADUs simple and cost-effective.
