Everything you need to know about building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Downey, CA.
In an effort to address the state’s housing crisis, the city of Downey has recently enacted a new ordinance that will allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their property. The regulation is designed to increase the supply of affordable housing in the city by encouraging homeowners to use underutilized space on their property.
Building an ADU is a great way to add extra living space to your home, but the process can be complex and confusing. At Vision ADU, we specialize in helping homeowners in Downey build beautiful and functional ADUs. We’ll work with you to figure out the best design for your needs and budget, pull all the required permits, and manage the construction process from start to finish.
The following type of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are allowed in Downey, California.
An Attacched ADU connects to an existing house, typically through the construction of an addition along the home’s side or rear.
An Attacched ADU connects to an existing house, typically through the construction of an addition along the home’s side or rear.
An Attacched ADU connects to an existing house, typically through the construction of an addition along the home’s side or rear.
An Attacched ADU connects to an existing house, typically through the construction of an addition along the home’s side or rear.
Several rules and regulations must be followed when building an ADU in Downey. These include:
Single-family lots can build 1 attached ADU or 1 detached ADU with 1 JADU. Multi-family lots are allowed a maxium of 2 detached ADUs.
850 square feet of floor area for a studio/1 bedroom. 1,000 square feet for 2 bedrooms (no more than two bedrooms are allowed)
The maximum height is 16 feet, measured to the top of the roof ridge, and the unit shall not exceed one story.
Allows 2 bedrooms.
4 feet from the property line is the minimum side and rear setbacks required for an attached or detached ADU. There are no minimum setbacks requirements for garage conversions or JADUs unless it is needed to ensure fire safety.
JADUs are subject to an owner-occupancy requirement, the property owner must live on the property. All other ADUs built in Downey after January 1, 2020, but before January 1, 2025, are not subject to any owner-occupancy requirement.
No short term rentals allowed.
Downey, California is a historic city with a rich culture. Founded in 1888, the city was once an industrial center for the aerospace and automobile industries. Today, Downey is home to a diverse population and is known for its strong sense of community.
