State law requires cities to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in all residential zones. ADUs can play in an important role in addressing California's housing crisis by providing housing that is affordable to low- and moderate-income households. ADUs have a number of other benefits, including but not limited to:
- Increasing property values
- Providing a passive income opportunity for homeowners
- Providing affordable accommodations for senior family members, caretakers, adult children, or extended family
To encourage the development of ADUs, State law provides a number of benefits including reduced or no parking requirements, streamlined garage conversions, and a requirement for ADUs to be approved "by right" without any public hearing or discretionary review.
In Westlake Village, ADUs are reviewed and approved through the Zoning Clearance process. Please note that in addition to a City Zoning Clearance, a building permit must be obtained from the County of Los Angeles prior to constructing an ADU.
Standards for ADUs are in Westlake Village Municipal Code Section 9.14.070.
For additional information or questions about ADUs, please contact the Planning Department at planning@wlv.org or 818-706-1613.