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Where we build ADUs around Long Beach
State ADU law sets the floor everywhere in California, but each city runs its own review. Here is what changes from one city to the next.
What should Long Beach homeowners know before building an ADU?
As of October 2026, Long Beach reviews ADUs under state law and the HCD ADU Handbook while it prepares a new local ordinance. Four city-specific points come up often:
- Alleys. On an alley lot, the 4-foot rear setback for new construction is measured to the alley centerline.
- Coastal zone. ADUs there need an Administrative Local Coastal Development Permit, filed with the building permit.
- Historic districts. ADUs need a Certificate of Appropriateness, and are exempt from ADU parking.
- Parking. The city notes that most Long Beach locations are exempt from ADU parking, for example within a half-mile of public transit.
Long Beach also does not allow ADUs to be used as short-term rentals. See our Airbnb guide.
Which nearby cities do we serve?
Lakewood
A postwar planned city of about 17,500 tract houses built from 1949 to 1953. The city describes many of its lots as small, and reviews ADU materials against the main house.
ADUs in LakewoodSignal Hill
A city completely surrounded by Long Beach, built on an oil field. Wells must be located and evaluated by the state before building permits are issued.
ADUs in Signal HillSeal Beach
An Orange County beach town without a certified local coastal program, so the Coastal Commission issues coastal permits.
ADUs in Seal BeachDowney
A mid-century city between the Rio Hondo and the San Gabriel River, with a pre-approved detached ADU plan program.
ADUs in DowneySee what fits on your lot
Send your address in any of these cities. We check that city's rules for your lot.