What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is defined as a residential dwelling unit that is either attached or detached from the primary residence and is located on the same lot or parcel of land. An ADU is equipped with independent living facilities that can accommodate one or more persons. Commonly referred to as guest houses, in-law units, casitas, or granny flats, ADUs provide homeowners with the option to share living spaces with family members, elderly individuals, students, in-home health care providers, individuals with disabilities, and others while still maintaining privacy. ADUs offer homeowners flexibility in their living arrangements and can be a valuable asset for a variety of households.

ADU Resources

Visit California Government Code Sections 66310-66342 to obtain latest information on the state statutes.

For project ideas and resources regarding ADUs, visit  https://housingsocal.org/

ADU Zoning Ordinance

For ADU development standards visit : BGMC Section 9.20.036

ADU Informational Handouts

ADU Conversions

Newly Constructed ADUs

For more information on ADUs please contact the Planning Division at (562) 806-7722 or via email at planning@bellgardens.org.

Development Impact Fees (DIF)

ADUs less than 750 square feet in size shall be exempted from all Development Impact Fees (DIF)

For more information on Development Impact Fees (DIF) please visit Development Impact Fee or contact the Building & Safety Division at (562) 806-7729 or gsuarez@bellgardens.org. 

CalHome Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program

The City of Bell Gardens offers a program to assist homeowners with rehabilitating or converting their garages into an ADU. The CalHome Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program provides low-interest loans of up to $75,000 to eligible homeowners who wish to improve or convert their existing ADU. This program is designed to support low-income households in enhancing the quality and safety of their homes and increasing the availability of affordable housing options in the community. By participating in this program, homeowners can make necessary repairs or upgrades to their homes, including ADUs, to better accommodate their needs or those of their family members. The City of Bell Gardens is committed to supporting homeowners in creating safe, comfortable, and affordable living spaces using ADUs and other housing options.

For more information on the CalHome Program visit https://bgcalhome.com/ or contact Cinthia Iniguez at (626) 545 – 2234 or cinthia@global-urban.com