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Expert Legal & Zoning Guidance

Navigate complex regulations with our specialized team to ensure your ADU or property development is fully compliant.

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Key ADU Regulations

Stay informed about the latest laws and regulations affecting ADU development in Southern California.

AB 68 & SB 13 (2020)
Streamlined ADU approvals, eliminated minimum lot size requirements, and reduced impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft.

Key Points:

  • Permits must be approved or denied within 60 days
  • No owner-occupancy requirement until 2025
  • Allows for Junior ADUs (JADUs) in addition to ADUs
AB 670 (2020)
Prevents HOAs from unreasonably restricting or prohibiting the construction of ADUs on single-family residential lots.

Key Points:

  • HOAs can impose reasonable restrictions on appearance
  • Cannot outright ban ADUs
  • Applies to all common interest developments
AB 881 (2020)
Removed barriers to ADU development including impact fees, replacement parking, and setback requirements.

Key Points:

  • No replacement parking required when garage is converted to ADU
  • Maximum 4-foot side and rear setbacks
  • Reduced impact fees proportional to main dwelling

Our Legal Process

A systematic approach to navigating complex regulations and securing necessary approvals.

Initial Assessment

We evaluate your property and project goals to identify potential legal and zoning challenges or opportunities.

Typical Timeline: 1-2 weeks

Regulatory Research

Our legal team researches all applicable regulations, including local zoning laws, state ADU legislation, and HOA restrictions.

Typical Timeline: 2-3 weeks

Strategy Development

We create a customized legal strategy to navigate regulatory requirements and maximize your property's potential.

Typical Timeline: 1-2 weeks

Permit Application

Our experts prepare and submit all necessary permit applications and supporting documentation to relevant authorities.

Typical Timeline: 2-4 weeks

Regulatory Navigation

We manage communication with regulatory bodies, respond to inquiries, and address any concerns or requests for additional information.

Typical Timeline: 4-12 weeks

Approval & Compliance

Once approvals are secured, we ensure all conditions are met and provide ongoing compliance guidance throughout your project.

Typical Timeline: Ongoing

Meet Our Legal Team

Our specialized legal experts are dedicated to navigating complex regulations for successful property development.

Jennifer Kim
Jennifer Kim
Legal & Zoning Director

With a background in property law and urban planning, Jennifer leads our legal team in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.

Specialties:

ADU RegulationsPermit ApplicationsZoning Variances
Robert Patel
Robert Patel
Permit Specialist

Robert has secured approvals for over 200 ADU projects, with expertise in navigating municipal building departments.

Specialties:

Building PermitsCode ComplianceRegulatory Approvals
Maria Gonzalez
Maria Gonzalez
HOA & CC&R Expert

Maria specializes in navigating homeowner association regulations and restrictive covenants for ADU projects.

Specialties:

HOA NegotiationsCC&R ReviewProperty Restrictions

Legal & Zoning FAQs

Answers to common questions about regulations, permits, and legal considerations for ADUs.

Zoning requirements for ADUs typically include setbacks (distance from property lines), height restrictions, lot coverage limits, and parking requirements. In California, recent legislation has relaxed many of these requirements to encourage ADU development. Our legal team conducts a thorough analysis of your property's specific zoning classification and applicable regulations.

Have more legal questions about your property?

Schedule a Legal Consultation

Need Expert Legal Guidance?

Our specialized legal team can help you navigate complex regulations and secure the necessary approvals for your property development.