CL_AGN_251118_PC_AgendaPacket_F1
Planning Commission
Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 6:30 PM
Regular Meeting
City of Rolling Hills
The meeting agenda is available on the City’s website. The Planning Commission meeting will be live-streamed on the
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AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Approve Order of the Agenda
This is the appropriate time for the Mayor or Councilmembers to approve the agenda as is or reorder.
5. Blue Folder Items (Supplemental)
Blue folder (supplemental) items are additional back up materials to administrative reports, changes to the posted agenda
packet, and/or public comments received after the printing and distribution of the agenda packet for receive and file.
6. Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items
This is the appropriate time for members of the public to make comments regarding items not listed on this agenda. Pursuant to
the Brown Act, no action will take place on any items not on the agenda.
7. Consent Calendar
Page 1 of 45
2
Business items, except those formally noticed for public hearing, or those pulled for discussion are assigned to the Consent
Calendar. The Mayor or any Councilmember may request that any Consent Calendar item(s) be removed, discussed, and
acted upon separately. Items removed from the Consent Calendar will be taken up under the "Excluded Consent Calendar"
section below. Those items remaining on the Consent Calendar will be approved in one motion. The Mayor will call on anyone
wishing to address the City Council on any Consent Calendar item on the agenda, which has not been pulled by
Councilmembers for discussion.
7.A. Approve Affidavit of Posting for the Planning Commission Regular Meeting of
November 18, 2025
RECOMMENDATION: Approve.
7.B. Approve the Minutes for the October 28, 2025 Planning Commission Meetings
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
8. Excluded Consent Calendar Items
9. Public Hearings on Items Continued From a Previous Meeting
10. Public Hearings
10.A. Consideration of Recommendation that the City Council adopt an ordinance
entitled “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills amending
Chapter 17.28 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code relating to Accessory Dwelling
Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units and finding the action to be Statutorily
Exempt from CEQA under Public Resources Code § 21080.17.”
RECOMMENDATION: RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Open the public hearing, receive public testimony, close the public hearing, and by
motion:
1. Find that the adoption of the proposed ordinance is statutorily exempt from review
under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Public Resources
Code § 21080.17.
2. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 1) recommending that the City Council adopt the
proposed ordinance that is attached thereto as Exhibit “A.”
11. Discussion Items
12. Scheduled Field Trips
13. Matters From Members of the Planning Commission
14. Matters From Staff
Page 2 of 45
3
15. Adjournment
Next regular meeting: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California, 90274.
Notice:
Documents pertaining to an agenda item received after the posting of the agenda are available for review in the City Clerk's office or at the meeting at
which the item will be considered.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting due to your disability, please
contact the City Clerk at (310) 377-1521 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure
accessibility and accommodation for your review of this agenda and attendance at this meeting.
Page 3 of 45
Item: 7.A.
Meeting Date: 11/18/2025
To: Planning Commission
From: Christian Horvath, Assistant to the City Manager / City Clerk
Thru: Karina Bañales, City Manager
Subject: Approve Affidavit of Posting for the Planning Commission Regular Meeting of
November 18, 2025
Background:
None.
Discussion:
None.
Fiscal Impact:
None.
Recommendation:
Approve.
Attachments:
1. CL_AGN_251118_PC_AffidavitofPosting
Page 4 of 45
Administrative Report
7.A., File # 2025-204 Meeting Date: 11/18/2025
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) §§
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS )
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
In compliance with the Brown Act, the following materials have been posted at the locations below.
Legislative Body Planning Commission
Posting Type Regular Meeting Agenda
Posting Location 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, CA 90274
City Hall Window
City Website: https://www.rolling-hills.org/government/agendas_meetings.php
https://rollinghillsca.portal.civicclerk.com/
Meeting Date & Time NOVEMBER 18, 2025 6:30pm
As City Clerk of the City of Rolling Hills, I declare under penalty of perjury, the document noted above was
posted at the date displayed below.
Christian Horvath, City Clerk
Date: November 14, 2025
Page 5 of 45
Item: 7.B.
Meeting Date: 11/18/2025
To: Planning Commission
From: Christian Horvath, Assistant to the City Manager / City Clerk
Thru: Karina Bañales, City Manager
Subject: Approve the Minutes for the October 28, 2025 Planning Commission Meetings
Background:
None.
Discussion:
None.
Fiscal Impact:
None.
Recommendation:
Approve as presented.
Attachments:
1. CL_MIN_251028_PC_FT_F
2. CL_MIN_251028_PC_F
Page 6 of 45
Minutes – Planning Commission Field Trip Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Page 1
Minutes
Rolling Hills Planning Commission
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Field Trip Meeting 7:30 a.m.
5 Ringbit Rd West
1. Call to Order
The Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills met in person at 5 Ringbit Road West on the above
date at 7:33 a.m. Chair Chelf presiding.
2. Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Soo, Chair Chelf
Commissioners Absent: Kirkpatrick, Douglass
Staff Present: Reina Schaetzl, Willdan Contract Senior Planner
Benjamin Johnson, Code Compliance Officer/Planning Technician
Karina Banales, City Manager
3. Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items - None
4. Public Hearing Field Trips
4.A. Approve Affidavit of Posting for the Planning Commission Field Trip Meeting of October 28th,
2025
4.B. Zoning Case No. 25-081: Variance requests to construct an attached accessory structure
(pergola) in the front yard setback and waive the requirements for a stable and corral set aside
area for a property located at 5 Ringbit Road West (Sleep & Collida) (Lot 7-SF).
Public Present: Jim Aichele (14 Crest Road West)
Greg Kirkpatrick (11 Southfield Dr)
Carol Marrone (17 Southfield Dr)
Steve Hosa (Designer)
Susan Sleep (5 Ringbit Rd W.)
Susan Collida (5 Ringbit Rd. W)
Presentation by Willdan Contract Senior Planner Schaetzl
Commissioners and the public walked the site. No decision was made by the Commission and the item was
continued to the evening meeting.
At 7:48 a.m. the Commission moved to 3 Outrider Road and reconvened at 8:00 a.m.
4.C. Zoning Case No. 24-162: Site Plan Review for the construction of a new single-family
residence with attached garage, non-exempt grading and related improvements; Conditional
Use Permit to construct a detached cabana, recreation court, stable, corral and detached
trellis and finding the project categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act for location at 80 Saddleback Road (Turpanjian) (LOT 67-RH).
Public Present: Dan Bolton (Engineer - 25834 Narbonne, Lomita)
Shilpa Mehta (Architect)
Page 7 of 45
Minutes – Planning Commission Field Trip Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Page 2
Joseph Speier (Architect)
Paul Turpanjian (80 Saddleback Rd)
Carol Hoffman (3 Hillside Ln)
Al Serpa (0 Poppy Trail)
Vicki Anakwenze (77 Saddleback)
Jim Aichele (14 Crest Road West)
Presentation by Willdan Contract Senior Planner Schaetzl
Commissioners and the public walked the site. No decision was made by the Commission and the item was
continued to the evening meeting.
5. Adjournment: 8:30 a.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 a.m. to the regular Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday, October
28, 2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, CA 90274.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________________
Christian Horvath, City Clerk
Approved,
____________________________________
Brad Chelf, Chair
Page 8 of 45
Minutes – Planning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Page 1
Minutes
Rolling Hills Planning Commission
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Regular Meeting 6:30 p.m.
1. Call to Order
The Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills met in person on the above date at 6:31 p.m. Chair
Chelf presiding.
2. Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Soo, Douglass, Kirkpatrick, Chair Chelf
Commissioners Absent:
Staff Present: Karina Bañales, City Manager
Reina Schaetzl, Willdan Contract Senior Planner
Christian Horvath, Assistant to the City Manager / City Clerk
Michael Ervin, Assistant City Attorney
3. Pledge of Allegiance –City Manager Bañales
4. Approve Order of The Agenda
Chair Chelf approved the Order of the Agenda. Without objection, so ordered.
5. Blue Folder Items (Supplemental) – None
6. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items – None
7. Consent Calendar
7.A. Approve Affidavit of Posting for the Planning Commission Regular Meeting of October 28,
2025
7.B. Approve the Minutes for the September 16, 2025 Planning Commission Meetings
Motion by Commissioner Cardenas, seconded by Commissioner Douglass to approve the Consent
Calendar. Motion carried unanimously with the following vote:
AYES: Cardenas, Soo, Douglass, Kirkpatrick, Chair Chelf
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
8. Excluded Consent Calendar Items – None
9. Public Hearings on Items Continued from Previous Meetings
Commissioners Douglass and Kirkpatrick recused themselves and left the dais at 6:33 p.m.
Page 9 of 45
Minutes – Planning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Page 2
9.A. Zoning Case No. 25-081: Variance requests to construct an attached accessory structure
(pergola) in the front yard setback and waive the requirements for a stable and corral set aside
area for a property located at 5 Ringbit Road West (Sleep & Collida) (Lot 7-SF)
Presentation by Willdan Contract Senior Planner Schaetzl
Public Comment: Greg Kirkpatrick, Caol Marrone, Susan Sleep
Motion by Commissioner Cardenas, seconded by Commissioner Soo to Adopt Resolution 2025-09 as
presented. Motion carried unanimously with the following vote:
AYES: Cardenas, Soo, Chair Chelf
NOES: None
ABSENT: Douglass, Kirkpatrick
Commissioner Douglass returned to the dais at 6:46 p.m. Commissioner Kirkpatrick remained recused for
Item 10A.
10. Public Hearings
10.A. Zoning Case No. 24-162: Site Plan Review for the construction of a new single-family
residence with attached garage, non-exempt grading and related improvements; Conditional
Use Permit to construct a detached cabana, recreation court, stable, corral and detached
trellis and finding the project categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act for location at 80 Saddleback Road (Turpanjian) (LOT 67-RH)
Presentation by Willdan Contract Senior Planner Schaetzl
Public Comment: Joseph Speer, Dan Bolton, Gerald Turpanjian
Motion by Commissioner Cardenas, seconded by Commissioner Douglass to Adopt Resolution 2025-10 as
presented. Motion carried unanimously with the following vote:
AYES: Cardenas, Soo, Douglass, Chair Chelf
NOES: None
ABSENT: Kirkpatrick
Commissioner Kirkpatrick returned to the dais at 7:06 p.m.
11. Discussion Items – None
12. Scheduled Field Trips
Willdan Contract Senior Planner Schaetzl announced that 10 Saddleback was a potential scheduled field
trip.
13. Items from The Planning Commission – None
14. Items from Staff
City Manager Bañales announced that a phishing email was received by a current planning project applicant
that appeared to come from the City with links to click on regarding purported fees. Staff was made aware
and informed the community to build awareness.
Page 10 of 45
Minutes – Planning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Page 3
15. Adjournment: 7:09 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m. to the Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday, November 18,
2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, CA 90274.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________________
Christian Horvath, City Clerk
Approved,
____________________________________
Brad Chelf, Chair
Page 11 of 45
Item: 10.A.
Meeting Date: 11/18/2025
To: Planning Commission
From: Michael Ervin, Assistant City Attorney
Thru: Karina Bañales, City Manager
Subject: Consideration of Recommendation that the City Council adopt an ordinance entitled
“An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills amending Chapter 17.28
of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior
Accessory Dwelling Units and finding the action to be Statutorily Exempt from CEQA
under Public Resources Code § 21080.17.”
Background:
In recent years, the California Legislature has approved, and the Governor has signed into law, a
number of bills that impose new limits on local authority to regulate ADUs and JADUs. In late 2025,
four new bills were enacted that further amend state ADU law as summarized below.
Discussion:
AB 462 – Coastal Development Permits; Disaster-Affected Areas
AB 462 modifies several permitting requirements associated with processing Coastal Development
Permits for ADUs located in the Coastal Zone. Beyond changes to CDP processing, AB 462 modifies
the rules governing the issuance of a certificate of occupancy (CofO) for an ADU. Historically, state
law has prohibited a local agency from issuing a CofO for an ADU before one is issued for the
primary dwelling (i.e., the primary dwelling must have a CofO before the ADU can receive one).
AB 462 creates a narrow exception to this prohibition for detached ADUs when all of the following
conditions are satisfied: (1) the Governor has declared a state of emergency for the county on or after
February 1, 2025; (2) the primary dwelling was substantially damaged or destroyed by an event
referenced in the state of emergency proclamation; and (3) the ADU has been issued construction
permits and passed all required inspections. (Gov. Code, § 66328(b).) If these conditions are
satisfied, the detached ADU can receive a CofO before the primary dwelling. In all other scenarios,
the primary dwelling still needs a CofO before one can be issued for an ADU.
AB 462 was enacted as an urgency measure that took effect immediately when signed by the
Governor (on October 10, 2025).
The following three bills were enacted as non-urgency measures and take effect on January 1, 2026.
Page 12 of 45
AB 1154 – JADU Owner-Occupancy; Short-Term Rental
When a JADU is developed, existing state law requires a property owner to reside in the JADU or
remaining portion of the single-family dwelling. AB 1154 narrows this requirement to now only apply
when a JADU shares sanitation facilities (bathroom) with the single-family dwelling. If the JADU has
its own bathroom, then the property owner does not have to reside on the property at all. (See
amended Gov. Code, § 66333(b).)
AB 1154 also expressly prohibits JADUs from being used as short-term rentals (i.e., rented for a term
shorter than 30 days). (See amended Gov. Code, § 66333(g).) The City’s ADU ordinance already
included this prohibition (as well as prohibiting ADUs from being used as short-term rentals). But now
it’s required by state law.
SB 9; SB 543 – ADU Ordinance Submittal to HCD; Approval
Under existing law, local agencies are required to submit a copy of their ADU ordinance to the
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) within 60 days of adoption.
This year’s SB 9[1] and SB 543 create a penalty for failing to do so by rendering null and void any
local ordinance that is not submitted to HCD within 60 days of adoption. (See amended Gov. Code, §
66326(d); new Gov. Code, § 66333.5(d).) The bills further specify that a local ADU ordinance is null
and void if HCD issues findings that the ordinance does not comply with state law and the local
agency fails to respond to HCD within 30 days. (Id.)
SB 543 – ADU Size; Number of ADUs; Impact Fees; Application Timeline
SB 543 makes numerous changes and clarifications to state ADU law, the most notable of which are
summarized below.
ADU & JADU Size
Existing law limits the maximum size of a JADU to 500 square feet and prohibits local ADU
ordinances from imposing certain development standards that would prevent an ADU created under
Government Code section 66314 through 66322 from being at least 800 square feet.
SB 543 amends state ADU law to specify that allowable square footage of an ADU or JADU refers to
square footage of “interior livable space.” (See amended Gov. Code, § 66313(d), 66321(b)(2).)
Impact Fees
Existing law exempts ADUS that are 750 square feet or smaller from development impacts fees
(DIFs).
SB 543 clarifies that DIFs may not be imposed on an ADU that has 750 or fewer square feet of
interior livable space or on a JADU with 500 or fewer square feet of interior livable space.
The bill also exempts an ADU or JADU with fewer than 500 square feet of interior livable space from
school impact fees. (See amended Gov. Code, § 66311.5.)
Quantity of ADUs Created Under Government Code Section 66323
Existing state law creates four categories of ADUs that must be approved if they comply with the
limited standards provided in Government Code section 66323(a)(1)–(4). These are:
1. A converted ADU and JADU created on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling
(Gov. Code, § 66323(a)(1));
2. A detached ADU created on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling (Gov.
Code, § 66323(a)(2));
3. Converted ADUs created in an existing multifamily dwelling (Gov. Code, § 66323(a)(3)); and
Page 13 of 45
4. Detached ADUs created on a lot with a proposed or existing multifamily dwelling.
For some time, there has been uncertainty as to whether ADUs created under Government Code
section 66323 could be combined. Some practitioners interpreted the statute to not require local
agencies to allow combinations. Initially, HCD took the same position, in its 2020 ADU Handbook. But
for the last few years, HCD has taken the opposite position: that yes, combinations are permitted.
(See HCD January 2025 ADU Handbook, at p. 19 [“[P]ursuant to Government Code section 66323,
subdivision (a), local governments must allow units created pursuant to subparagraphs (1) and (2)
together or (3) and (4) together”].)
SB 543 codifies HCD’s most recent interpretation by amending Government Code section 66323 to
specifically allow combinations. Thus, a lot with a multifamily dwelling can now have a converted ADU
or ADUs created under section 66323(a)(3) and detached ADUs created under section 66323(a)(4).
And a lot with a single family dwelling can now have a converted ADU and a JADU created under
section 66323(a)(1) and a detached ADU created under section 66323(a)(2).
ADU Permitting Process
Existing law has long required local agencies to approve or deny an ADU application within 60 days
of receiving a complete application. However, state law was silent with respect to incompleteness
determinations, subsequent resubmittals, and appealing local decisions on ADU applications.
SB 543 requires local agencies to now:
1. Determine whether an ADU application is complete within 15 business days of submittal;
2. If the application is incomplete, within the same 15 days provide the applicant with a list of
incomplete items and how to address them;
3. Review a resubmitted application for completeness within 15 business days;
4. Provide the applicant with a written appeal process for any incompleteness determination or
denial (to the Planning Commission or City Council, or both); and
5. Provide a final written determination on the appeal within 60 business days of receiving the
appeal). (See amended Gov. Code, §§ 66317 [ADUs], 66335 [JADUs].)
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
Under California Public Resources Code section 21080.17, CEQA does not apply to the adoption of
an ordinance by a city or county implementing the provisions of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of
the California Government Code, which is California’s ADU law. Therefore, the proposed ordinance is
statutorily exempt from CEQA in that the proposed ordinance implements state ADU law.
[1] Not to be confused with the SB 9 of 2021 (Stats. 2021, Ch. 162) regarding urban lot splits and
second primary dwelling units.
Fiscal Impact:
None
Recommendation:
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Open the public hearing, receive public testimony, close the public hearing, and by motion:
1. Find that the adoption of the proposed ordinance is statutorily exempt from review under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Public Resources Code § 21080.17.
Page 14 of 45
2. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 1) recommending that the City Council adopt the proposed
ordinance that is attached thereto as Exhibit “A.”
Attachments:
1. Attachment 1 - 2025-11_PC_Resolution_ADU_OrdinanceAmendments
2. Attachment 2 - 388_ADU_2025_Ordinance
3. Attachment 3 - 388_ADU_2025_Ordinance_ExhibitB_Redline
Page 15 of 45
65277.00001\44385023.1
-1-
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-11
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, RECOMMENDING THAT
THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 17.28 OF THE ROLLING HILLS MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATING TO ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS, AND
FINDING THE ACTION TO BE STATUTORILY EXEMPT
FROM CEQA UNDER PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE
§ 21080.17
WHEREAS, state law authorizes cities to act by ordinance to provide for the
creation and regulation of accessory dwelling units (“ADUs”) and junior accessory
dwelling units (“JADUs”); and
WHEREAS, in recent years, the California Legislature has approved, and the
Governor has signed into law, a number of bills that, among other things, amend various
sections of the Government Code to impose new limits on local authority to regulate ADUs
and JADUs; and
WHEREAS, in 2025, the California Legislature approved, and the Governor signed
into law, further amendments to state ADU law;
WHEREAS, new updates to state ADU law take effect on January 1, 2026, and for
the City’s ADU ordinance to remain valid, it must be amended to reflect the most recent
changes to state law; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend its local regulatory scheme for the
construction of ADUs and JADUs to reflect the most recent changes to state law; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed
public hearing to consider the attached Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have
occurred.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DOES HEREBY
FIND, RESOLVE, AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Incorporation. The recitals above are true and correct and are each
incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the Planning Commission.
Page 16 of 45
Resolution No. 2025-11 ADU Ordinance Amendments
- 2 -
SECTION 2. CEQA. The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council
find that, under California Public Resources Code section 21080.17, the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) does not apply to the adoption of an ordinance by a
city or county implementing the provisions of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the
California Government Code, which is California’s ADU law. Therefore, adoption of the
proposed Ordinance is statutorily exempt from CEQA in that it implements state ADU law.
SECTION 3. General Plan. The Planning Commission hereby finds that the
adoption of the Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan as a matter of law under
Government Code section 66314(c).
SECTION 4. Recommendation. Given the foregoing, and based on the entire
record before the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission hereby recommends
that the City Council adopt the Ordinance attached hereto as Exhibit “A.”
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Resolution takes effect immediately upon
adoption.
Section 6. Certification; Records. The City Clerk will attest as to the adoption of
this Resolution and cause the same to be maintained in the permanent records of the
City.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 18th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025.
BRAD CHELF, CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST:
CHRISTIAN HORVATH, CITY CLERK
Any action challenging the final decision of the City made as a result of the public
hearing on this application must be filed within the time limits set forth in Section
17.54.070 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code and Civil Procedure Section 1094.6.
Page 17 of 45
Resolution No. 2025-11 ADU Ordinance Amendments
- 3 -
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) §§
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS )
I certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2025-11 entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY
OF ROLLING HILLS, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 17.28 OF THE
ROLLING HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS,
AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE STATUTORILY EXEMPT FROM
CEQA UNDER PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE § 21080.17
was approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission on
November 18, 2025, by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
and in compliance with the laws of California was posted at the following:
Administrative Offices.
__________________________________
CHRISTIAN HORVATH, CITY CLERK
Page 18 of 45
65277.00001\44385023.1
-4-
Exhibit “A”
Proposed Ordinance
[Attached]
Page 19 of 45
Ordinance No. 388 ADU Amendments
- 1 -
ORDINANCE NO. 388
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ROLLING HILLS AMENDING CHAPTER 17.28 OF THE
ROLLING HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND FINDING THE
ACTION TO BE STATUTORILY EXEMPT FROM CEQA
UNDER PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE § 21080.17
WHEREAS, the City of Rolling Hills, California (“City”) is a municipal corporation,
duly organized under the constitution and laws of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, state law authorizes cities to act by ordinance to provide for the
creation and regulation of accessory dwelling units (“ADUs”) and junior accessory
dwelling units (“JADUs”); and
WHEREAS, in recent years, the California Legislature has approved, and the
Governor has signed into law, numerous bills that, among other things, amend various
sections of the Government Code to impose new limits on local authority to regulate ADUs
and JADUs; and
WHEREAS, in 2025, the California Legislature approved, and the Governor signed
into law, further amendments to state ADU law; and
WHEREAS, new updates to state ADU law take effect on January 1, 2026, and for
the City’s ADU ordinance to remain valid, it must be amended to reflect the most recent
changes to state law; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to amend its local regulatory scheme for the
construction of ADUs and JADUs to reflect the most recent changes to state law; and
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2025, the Planning Commission held a duly-noticed
public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public
testimony concerning this proposed Ordinance. Following the public hearing, the Planning
Commission voted to forward the Ordinance to the City Council with a recommendation
in favor of its adoption; and
WHEREAS, on November 24, 2025, the City Council held a duly-noticed public
hearing to consider the Ordinance, including: (1) the public testimony and agenda reports
prepared in connection with the Ordinance, (2) the policy considerations discussed
therein, and (3) the consideration and recommendation by the City’s Planning
Commission; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Ordinance have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills does ordain as
follows:
Page 20 of 45
Ordinance No. 388 ADU Amendments
- 2 -
SECTION 1. Incorporation. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference
and adopted as findings by the City Council.
SECTION 2. CEQA. Under California Public Resources Code section 21080.17,
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) does not apply to the adoption of an
ordinance by a city or county implementing the provisions of Chapter 13 of Division 1 of
Title 7 of the California Government Code, which is California’s ADU law. Therefore,
adoption of the Ordinance is statutorily exempt from CEQA in that it implements state
ADU law.
SECTION 3. General Plan. The City Council hereby finds that the adoption of the
Ordinance is consistent with the General Plan as a matter of law under Government Code
section 66314(c).
SECTION 4. Code Amendment. Chapter 17.28 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code
is hereby amended and restated to read in its entirety as provided in Exhibit “A,” attached
hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance takes effect 30 days after its adoption.
SECTION 6. HCD Submittal. In accordance with Government Code sections
66326 and 66333.5, the City Clerk is directed to submit a copy of this Ordinance to the
California Department of Housing and Community Development within 60 days after
adoption.
SECTION 7. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to certify to the adoption of this
Ordinance and post or publish this Ordinance as required by law.
SECTION 8. Custodian of Records. The custodian of records for this Ordinance is
the City Clerk and the records comprising the administrative record are located at Rolling
Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California 90274.
SECTION 9. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any
person or circumstance is held to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity has no effect on the other provisions or applications of the Ordinance that can
be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this extent, the
provisions of this Ordinance are severable. The City Council declares that it would have
adopted this Ordinance irrespective of the invalidity of any portion thereof.
(Continues on next page)
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Ordinance No. 388 ADU Amendments
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PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 25th day of November, 2024.
____________________________
Jeff Pieper, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Christian Horvath, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
BEST BEST & KRIEGER LLP
________________________________
Nicolas Papajohn, City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A-1
Amended ADU Regulations
(follows this page)
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EXHIBIT “A”
Chapter 17.28
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
Sections:
17.28.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to allow and regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory
dwelling units (JADUs) in compliance with Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the California Government Code.
17.28.020 Effect of conforming.
An ADU or JADU that conforms to the standards in this Chapter will not be:
A. Deemed to be inconsistent with the City's general plan and zoning designation for the lot on which the ADU
or JADU is located.
B. Deemed to exceed the allowable density for the lot on which the ADU or JADU is located.
C. Considered in the application of any local ordinance, policy, or program to limit residential growth.
D. Required to correct a nonconforming zoning condition, as defined in subsection 17.28.030(H) below. This
does not prevent the City from enforcing compliance with applicable building standards in accordance with
Health and Safety Code Section 17980.12.
17.28.030 Definitions.
As used in this Chapter, terms are defined as follows:
A. "Accessory dwelling unit" or "ADU" means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides
complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or
existing primary residence. An accessory dwelling unit also includes the following:
1. An efficiency unit, as defined by Section 17958.1 of the California Health and Safety Code; and
2. A manufactured home, as defined by Section 18007 of the California Health and Safety Code.
B. "Accessory structure" means a structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling located on the same
lot.
C. "Complete independent living facilities" means permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking,
and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated.
D. "Efficiency kitchen" means a kitchen that includes all of the following:
1. A cooking facility with appliances.
2. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of a reasonable size in relation to the size of
the JADU.
E. "Junior accessory dwelling unit" or "JADU" means a residential unit that satisfies all of the following:
1. It is no more than 500 square feet of interior livable space in size.
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2. It is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family structure. An enclosed use within
the residence, such as an attached garage, is considered to be a part of and contained within the
single-family structure.
3. It includes its own separate sanitation facilities or shares sanitation facilities with the existing or
proposed single-family structure.
4. If the unit does not include its own separate bathroom, then it contains an interior entrance to the
main living area of the existing or proposed single-family structure in addition to an exterior entrance
that is separate from the main entrance to the primary dwelling.
5. It includes an efficiency kitchen, as defined in subsection (D) above.
F. "Livable space" means a space in a dwelling intended for human habitation, including living, sleeping, eating,
cooking, or sanitation.
G. "Living area" means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, including basements and attics, but does
not include a garage or any accessory structure.
H. "Nonconforming zoning condition" means a physical improvement on a property that does not conform with
current zoning standards.
I. "Passageway" means a pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one
entrance of the ADU or JADU.
J. "Proposed dwelling" means a dwelling that is the subject of a permit application and that meets the
requirements for permitting.
K. "Public transit" means a location, including, but not limited to, a bus stop or train station, where the public
may access buses, trains, subways, and other forms of transportation that charge set fares, run on fixed
routes, and are available to the public.
L. "Tandem parking" means that two or more automobiles are parked on a driveway or in any other location on
a lot, lined up behind one another.
17.28.040 Approvals.
A. The following approvals apply to ADUs and JADUs created under this Chapter:
1. Ministerial ADU and Building Permits Required. Every ADU and JADU requires an ADU permit and a
building permit. The City will review and approve permit applications in accordance with subsection
(A)(3) below.
2. Processing Fee. The City may charge a fee to reimburse it for costs incurred in processing ADU permits,
including the costs of adopting or amending the City’s ADU ordinance. The ADU-permit processing fee
is determined by the Director of Community Development or other City employee as determined or
designated by the City Manager and approved by the City Council by resolution.
3. Process and Timing.
(a) Completeness.
(i) Determination in 15 days. The City will determine whether an application to create or serve
an ADU or JADU is complete and will provide written notice of the determination to the
applicant within 15 business days after the City receives the application submittal.
(ii) Incomplete items. If the City’s determination under subsection (A)(3)(a)(i) above is that the
application is incomplete, the City’s notice must list the incomplete items and describe how
the application can be made complete.
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(iii) Cure. After receiving a notice that the application is incomplete, the applicant may cure
and address the items that were deemed by the City to be incomplete.
(iv) Subsequent submittals. If the applicant submits additional information to address
incomplete items, within 15 business days of the subsequent submittal the City will
determine in writing whether the additional information remedies all the incomplete items
that the City identified in its original notice. The City may not require the application to
include an item that was not included in the original notice.
(v) Deemed complete. If the City does not make a timely determination as required by this
subsection (a), the application or resubmitted application is deemed complete for the
purposes of subsection (A)(3)(c) below.
(vi) Appeal of incompleteness. An applicant may appeal the City’s determination that the
application is incomplete by submitting a written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning
Commission will review the written appeal and affirm or reverse the completeness
determination and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60
business days after receipt of the appeal.
(b) No discretion or hearing. Ministerial permits for an ADU or JADU are considered and approved
without discretionary review or a hearing.
(c) Deadline to approval or deny ministerial approvals. The City must approve or deny an application
to create an ADU or JADU within 60 days from the date that the City receives a complete
application. If the City has not approved or denied the complete application within 60 days, the
application is deemed approved unless either:
(i) The applicant requests a delay, in which case the 60-day time period is tolled for the period
of the requested delay, or
(ii) When an application to create an ADU or JADU is submitted with a permit application to
create a new single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot, the City may delay acting on
the permit application for the ADU or JADU until the City acts on the permit application to
create the new single-family or multifamily dwelling, but the application to create the ADU
or JADU will still be considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing.
(d) Denial. If the City denies an application to create an ADU or JADU, the City must provide the
applicant with comments that include, among other things, a list of all the defective or deficient
items and a description of how the application may be remedied by the applicant. Notice of the
denial and corresponding comments must be provided to the applicant within the 60-day time
period established by subsection (A)(3)(c) above.
(e) Appeal of denial. An applicant may appeal the City’s denial of the application by submitting a
written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning Commission will review the written appeal and
affirm or reverse the denial and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60
business days after receipt of the appeal.
(f) Concurrent review of demolition. A demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be
replaced with an ADU is reviewed with the application for the ADU and issued at the same time.
B. Classes.
1. Class 1: Statutorily Regulated. Class 1 ADUs and JADUs are approved under Government Code Section
66323. If an ADU or JADU complies with each of the general requirements in Section 17.28.050, it is
allowed in each of the scenarios provided in this subsection (B)(1). An ADU and JADU approved under
subsection (B)(1)(a) may be combined with an ADU approved under subsection (B)(1)(b), and ADUs
approved under subsection (B)(1)(c) may be combined with ADUs approved under subsection (B)(1)(d).
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(a) Converted on Lot with Single-Family: One ADU as described in this subsection (B)(1)(a) and one
JADU on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling on it, where the ADU or JADU:
(i) Is either: within the space of a proposed single-family dwelling; within the existing space
of an existing single-family dwelling; or (in the case of an ADU only) within the existing
space of an accessory structure, plus up to 150 additional square feet if the expansion is
limited to accommodating ingress and egress; and
(ii) Has exterior access that is independent of that for the single-family dwelling; and
(iii) Has side and rear setbacks sufficient for fire and safety, as dictated by applicable building
and fire codes.
(iv) The JADU complies with the requirements of Government Code Sections 66333 through
66339.
(b) Limited Detached Lot with Single-Family: One detached, new-construction ADU on a lot with a
proposed or existing single-family dwelling, if the detached ADU satisfies each of the following
limitations:
(i) The side- and rear-yard setbacks are at least four feet.
(ii) The total floor area is 800 square feet of livable space or smaller.
(iii) The peak height above grade does not exceed the applicable height limit in subsection
17.28.050(B) below.
(c) Converted on Lot with Multifamily: One or more ADUs within portions of existing multifamily
dwelling structures that are not used as livable space, including but not limited to storage rooms,
boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages, if each converted ADU complies with
state building standards for dwellings. Under this subsection (B)(1)(c), at least one converted
ADU is allowed within an existing multifamily dwelling, up to a quantity equal to twenty-five
percent of the existing multifamily dwelling units.
(d) Limited Detached on Lot with Multifamily: No more than two detached ADUs on a lot with a
proposed multifamily dwelling, or up to eight detached ADUs on a lot with an existing multifamily
dwelling, if each detached ADU satisfies all of the following:
(i) The side- and rear-yard setbacks are at least four feet. If the existing multifamily dwelling
has a rear or side yard setback of less than four feet, the City will not require any
modification to the multifamily dwelling as a condition of approving the ADU.
(ii) The peak height above grade does not exceed the applicable height limit provided in
Section 17.28.050(B) below.
(iii) If the lot has an existing multifamily dwelling, the quantity of detached ADUs does not
exceed the number of primary dwelling units on the lot.
2. Class 2: Locally Regulated. Class 2 ADUs are approved under Government Code Sections 66314–66322.
Except for Class 1 ADUs approved under subsection (B)(1) above, all ADUs are subject to the standards
set forth in Sections 17.28.050 and 17.28.060 below.
17.28.050 General ADU and JADU requirements.
The following requirements apply to all Class 1 and Class 2 ADUs and:
A. Zoning.
1. A Class 1 ADU approved under subsection 17.28.040(B)(1) may be created on a lot in a residential or
mixed-use zone.
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2. A Class 2 ADU approved under subsection 17.28.040(B)(2) may be created on a lot that is zoned to
allow single-family dwelling residential use or multifamily dwelling residential use.
3. In accordance with Government Code Section 66333(a), a JADU may only be created on a lot zoned for
single-family residences.
B. Height.
1. Except as otherwise provided by subsections (B)(2) and (B)(3) below, a detached ADU created on a lot
with an existing or proposed single family or multifamily dwelling unit may not exceed sixteen feet in
height.
2. A detached ADU may be up to eighteen feet in height if it is created on a lot with an existing or
proposed single family or multifamily dwelling unit that is located within one-half mile walking distance
of a major transit stop or high quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of
the Public Resources Code, and the ADU may be up to two additional feet in height (for a maximum of
twenty feet) if necessary to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of
the primary dwelling unit.
3. A detached ADU created on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily dwelling that has more than
one story above grade may not exceed eighteen feet in height.
4. An ADU that is attached to the primary dwelling may not exceed twenty-five feet in height or the
height limitation imposed by the underlying zone that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is
lower. Notwithstanding the foregoing, ADUs subject to this subsection (B)(4) may not exceed two
stories.
5. For purposes of this subsection (B), height is measured from existing legal grade or the level of the
lowest floor, whichever is lower, to the peak of the structure.
C. Fire Sprinklers.
1. Fire sprinklers are required in an ADU or JADU if sprinklers are required in the primary residence.
2. The construction of an ADU or JADU does not trigger a requirement for fire sprinklers to be installed in
the existing primary dwelling.
D. Rental Term. No ADU or JADU may be rented for a term that is shorter than 30 days. This prohibition applies
regardless of when the ADU or JADU was created.
E. No Separate Conveyance. An ADU or JADU may be rented, but, except as otherwise provided in Government
Code Section 66341, no ADU or JADU may be sold or otherwise conveyed separately from the lot and the
primary dwelling (in the case of a single-family lot) or from the lot and all of the dwellings (in the case of a
multifamily lot).
F. Septic System. If the ADU or JADU will connect to an onsite wastewater-treatment system, the owner must
include with the application a percolation test completed within the last five years or, if the percolation test
has been recertified, within the last ten years.
G. Owner Occupancy.
1. ADUs are not subject to an owner-occupancy requirement.
2. JADUs.
(a) Generally. As required by state law, all JADUs are generally subject to an owner-occupancy
requirement. A natural person with legal or equitable title to the property must reside on the
property, in either the primary dwelling or JADU, as the person's legal domicile and permanent
residence.
(b) Exceptions. The owner-occupancy requirement in this subsection (G)(2) does not apply in either
of the following situations:
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(i) The JADU has separate sanitation facilities (i.e., does not share sanitation facilities with the
existing primary dwelling unit structure).
(ii) The property is entirely owned by another governmental agency, land trust, or housing
organization.
H. Deed Restriction. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for a JADU, a deed restriction must be
recorded against the title of the property in the County Recorder's office and a copy filed with the Director or
other City employee as determined or designated by the City Manager. The deed restriction must run with
the land and bind all future owners. The form of the deed restriction will be provided by the City and must
provide that:
1. The JADU may not be sold separately from the primary dwelling.
2. The JADU is restricted to the approved size and to other attributes allowed by this Chapter.
3. The deed restriction runs with the land and may be enforced against future property owners.
4. The deed restriction may be removed if the owner eliminates the JADU, as evidenced by, for example,
removal of the kitchen facilities. To remove the deed restriction, an owner may make a written request
of the Director or other City employee as determined or designated by the City Manager, providing
evidence that the JADU has in fact been eliminated. The Director or other City employee as determined
or designated by the City Manager may then determine whether the evidence supports the claim that
the JADU has been eliminated. Appeal may be taken from the Director's or other City employee as
determined or designated by the City Manager determination consistent with other provisions of this
code. If the JADU is not entirely physically removed, but is only eliminated by virtue of having a
necessary component of an JADU removed, the remaining structure and improvements must
otherwise comply with applicable provisions of this code.
5. The deed restriction is enforceable by the director or other City employee as determined or designated
by the City Manager for the benefit of the City. Failure of the property owner to comply with the deed
restriction may result in legal action against the property owner, and the City is authorized to obtain
any remedy available to it at law or equity, including, but not limited to, obtaining an injunction
enjoining the use of the JADU in violation of the recorded restrictions or abatement of the illegal unit.
I. Building & Safety.
1. Must Comply with Building Code. Subject to subsection (I)(2) below, all ADUs and JADUs must comply
with all local building code requirements.
2. No Change of Occupancy. Construction of an ADU does not constitute a Group R occupancy change
under the local building code, as described in Section 310 of the California Building Code, unless the
Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in
the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and
safety. Nothing in this subsection (I)(2) prevents the City from changing the occupancy code of a space
that was uninhabitable space or that was only permitted for nonresidential use and was subsequently
converted for residential use in accordance with this Chapter.
J. Certificate of Occupancy Timing.
1. Generally. No certificate of occupancy for an ADU or JADU may be issued before the certificate of
occupancy is issued for the primary dwelling unit.
2. Limited Exception for State-declared Emergencies. Notwithstanding subsection (J)(1) above, a
certificate of occupancy for an ADU may be issued before a certificate of occupancy for the primary
dwelling if each of the following requirements are met:
(a) The county is subject to a proclamation of a state of emergency made by the California Governor
on or after February 1, 2025.
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(b) The primary dwelling was substantially damaged or destroyed by an event referenced in the
Governor’s state of emergency proclamation.
(c) The ADU has been issued construction permits and has passed all required inspections.
(d) The ADU is not attached to the primary dwelling.
17.28.060 Specific ADU requirements.
The following requirements apply only to Class 2 ADUs approved under subsection 17.28.040(B)(2) above:
A. Maximum Size.
1. The maximum size of a detached or attached ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 is 850 square feet
of interior livable space for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a unit of interior
livable space with two or more bedrooms.
2. An attached ADU that is created on a lot with an existing primary dwelling is further limited to 50
percent of the floor area of the existing primary dwelling.
3. Application of other development standards in this Section 17.28.060, such as FAR or lot coverage,
might further limit the size of the ADU, but no application of the percent-based size limit in subsection
(A)(2) above or of an FAR, front setback, lot coverage limit, or open-space requirement may require the
ADU to be less than 800 square feet.
B. Floor Area Ratio (FAR). No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total FAR of the lot to exceed
45 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
C. Setbacks.
1. ADUs that are subject to this Section 17.28.060 must conform to four-foot side and rear setbacks.
2. ADUs that are subject to this Section 17.28.060 must conform to 30-foot front setbacks, subject to
subsection (A)(3) above.
3. No setback is required for an ADU that is subject to this Section 17.28.060 if the ADU is constructed in
the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure.
D. Lot Coverage. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total lot coverage of the lot to exceed
50 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
E. Minimum Open Space. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total percentage of open
space of the lot to fall below 50 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
F. Passageway. No passageway, as defined by Section 17.28.030(I) above, is required for an ADU.
G. Parking.
1. Generally. One off-street parking space is required for each ADU or bedroom, whichever is less. The
parking space may be provided in setback areas or as tandem parking, as defined by subsection
17.28.030(L).
2. Exceptions. No parking under subsection (G)(1) is required in the following situations:
(a) The ADU is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, as defined in Section
17.28.030(K).
(b) The ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
(c) The ADU is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.
(d) When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
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(e) When there is an established car share vehicle stop located within one block of the ADU.
(f) When the permit application to create an ADU is submitted with an application to create a new
single-family or new multifamily dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU or the lot
satisfies any other criteria listed in subsections (G)(2)(a) through (e) above.
3. No Replacement. When a garage, carport, covered parking structure, or uncovered parking space is
demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU, those off-street
parking spaces are not required to be replaced.
H. Architectural Requirements.
1. The materials and colors of the exterior walls, roof, and windows and doors must be the same as those
of the primary dwelling.
2. The roof slope must match that of the dominant roof slope of the primary dwelling. The dominant roof
slope is the slope shared by the largest portion of the roof.
3. The exterior lighting must be limited to down-lights or as otherwise required by the building or fire
code.
4. The ADU must have an independent exterior entrance, apart from that of the primary dwelling.
5. The interior horizontal dimensions of an ADU must be at least ten feet wide in every direction, with a
minimum interior wall height of seven feet.
6. No window or door of the ADU may have a direct line of sight to an adjoining residential property. Each
window and door must either be located where there is no direct line of sight or screened using
fencing, landscaping, or privacy glass to prevent a direct line of sight.
7. All windows and doors in an ADU less than thirty feet from a property line that is not a public right-of-
way line must either be (for windows) clerestory with the bottom of the glass at least six feet above the
finished floor, or (for windows and for doors) utilize frosted or obscure glass.
I. Historical Protections. An ADU that is on or within six hundred feet of real property that is listed in the
California Register of Historic Resources must be located so as to not be visible from any public right-of-way.
J. Allowed Stories. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may have more than one story, except that an
ADU that is attached to the primary dwelling may have the stories allowed under subsection 17.28.050(B)(4).
17.28.070 Fees.
The following requirements apply to all Class 1 ADUs and JADUs and Class 2 ADUs that are approved under
subsections 17.28.040(B)(1) or 17.28.040(B)(2) above.
A. Impact Fees.
1. No impact fee is required for a JADU or for an ADU that is less than 750 square feet of interior livable
space in size. For purposes of this subsection (A), "impact fee" means a "fee" under the Mitigation Fee
Act (Gov. Code § 66000(b)) and a fee under the Quimby Act (Gov. Code § 66477). "Impact fee" here
does not include any connection fee or capacity charge for water or sewer service.
2. A JADU or ADU with less than 500 square feet of interior livable space does not increase assessable
space by 500 square feet for purposes of Education Code Section 17620(a)(1)(C), and is therefore not
subject to school fees under Education Code section 17620.
3. Any impact fee that is required for an ADU that has 750 square feet or more of interior livable space
must be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit. (E.g.,
the floor area of the ADU, divided by the floor area of the primary dwelling, times the typical fee
amount charged for a new dwelling.)
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B. Utility Fees.
1. If an ADU or JADU is constructed with a new single-family home, a separate utility connection directly
between the ADU or JADU and the utility and payment of the normal connection fee and capacity
charge for a new dwelling are required.
2. Except as described in subsection (B)(1), JADUs and converted ADUs on a single-family lot that are
created under subsection (B)(1)(a) are not required to have a new or separate utility connection
directly between the JADU or ADU and the utility. Nor is a connection fee or capacity charge required.
Notwithstanding the rest of this paragraph, a direct utility connection is required for separate
conveyance of an ADU when separate conveyance is allowed under this code.
3. Except as described in subsection (B)(1), all ADUs that are not covered by subsection (B)(2), require a
new, separate utility connection directly between the ADU and the utility for any utility that is provided
by the City. All utilities that are not provided by the City are subject to the connection and fee
requirements of the utility provider.
(a) The connection is subject to a connection fee or capacity charge that is proportionate to the
burden created by the ADU based on either the floor area or the number of drainage-fixture
units (DFU) values, as defined by the Uniform Plumbing Code, upon the water or sewer system.
(b) The portion of the fee or charge that is charged by the City may not exceed the reasonable cost
of providing this service.
17.28.080 Nonconforming zoning code conditions, building code violations, and unpermitted
structures.
A. Generally. The City will not deny an ADU or JADU application due to a nonconforming zoning condition,
building code violation, or unpermitted structure on the lot that does not present a threat to the public
health and safety and that is not affected by the construction of the ADU or JADU.
B. Unpermitted ADUs and JADUs constructed before 2020.
1. Permit to Legalize. As required by state law, the City may not deny a permit to legalize an existing but
unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if denial is based on either of
the following grounds:
(a) The ADU or JADU violates applicable building standards, or
(b) The ADU or JADU does not comply with state ADU or JADU law or this ADU ordinance (Chapter
17.28).
2. Exceptions:
(a) Notwithstanding subsection (B)(1), the City may deny a permit to legalize an existing but
unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the City makes a
finding that correcting a violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California
Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
(b) Subsection (B)(1) does not apply to a building that is deemed to be substandard in accordance
with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
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17.28.090 Nonconforming ADUs and discretionary approval.
Any proposed ADU or JADU that would otherwise be allowed under this Chapter but that does not conform
to the objective design or development standards set forth in Section 17.28.010 through 17.28.080 of this Chapter
may be allowed by the City with a conditional use permit, in accordance with the other provisions of this title.
17.28.100 Parcels Created Under Government Code Section 66499.41.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Chapter, no ADU or JADU may be created on a
parcel resulting from a subdivision under Government Code section 66499.41. (Gov. Code, § 66499.41(g).)
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) §§
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS )
I, Christian Horvath, City Clerk of the City of Rolling Hills, California, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 388 was adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Rolling Hills held on the 18th day of November, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
Christian Horvath
City Clerk
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65277.00001\44382483.2
EXHIBIT “B”
Rolling Hills, California, Code of Ordinances November 12, 2025
Page 1 of 11
Chapter 17.28
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
(Note: additions are noted in underline, and deletions in strikethrough)
Sections:
17.28.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter section is to allow and regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior
accessory dwelling units (JADUs) in compliance with Chapter 13 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the California
Government Code.
17.28.020 Effect of conforming.
An ADU or JADU that conforms to the standards in this Chapter section will not be:
A. Deemed to be inconsistent with the City's general plan and zoning designation for the lot on which the ADU
or JADU is located.
B. Deemed to exceed the allowable density for the lot on which the ADU or JADU is located.
C. Considered in the application of any local ordinance, policy, or program to limit residential growth.
D. Required to correct a nonconforming zoning condition, as defined in subsection 17.28.030(H) below. This
does not prevent the City from enforcing compliance with applicable building standards in accordance with
Health and Safety Code sectionSection 17980.12.
17.28.030 Definitions.
As used in this Chapter section, terms are defined as follows:
A. "Accessory dwelling unit" or "ADU" means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit that provides
complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or
existing primary residence. An accessory dwelling unit also includes the following:
1. An efficiency unit, as defined by Section 17958.1 of the California Health and Safety Code; and
2. A manufactured home, as defined by Section 18007 of the California Health and Safety Code.
B. "Accessory structure" means a structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling located on the same
lot.
C. "Complete independent living facilities" means permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking,
and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated.
D. "Efficiency kitchen" means a kitchen that includes all of the following:
1. A cooking facility with appliances.
2. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of a reasonable size in relation to the size of
the JADU.
E. "Junior accessory dwelling unit" or "JADU" means a residential unit that satisfies all of the following:
1. It is no more than five hundred 500 square feet of interior livable space in size.
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2. It is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family structure. An enclosed use within
the residence, such as an attached garage, is considered to be a part of and contained within the
single-family structure.
3. It includes its own separate sanitation facilities or shares sanitation facilities with the existing or
proposed single-family structure.
4. If the unit does not include its own separate bathroom, then it contains an interior entrance to the
main living area of the existing or proposed single-family structure in addition to an exterior entrance
that is separate from the main entrance to the primary dwelling.
5. It includes an efficiency kitchen, as defined in subsection 17.28.030 (D) above.
F. "Livable space" means a space in a dwelling intended for human habitation, including living, sleeping, eating,
cooking, or sanitation.
G. "Living area" means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, including basements and attics, but does
not include a garage or any accessory structure.
H. "Nonconforming zoning condition" means a physical improvement on a property that does not conform with
current zoning standards.
I. "Passageway" means a pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one
entrance of the ADU or JADU.
J. "Proposed dwelling" means a dwelling that is the subject of a permit application and that meets the
requirements for permitting.
K. "Public transit" means a location, including, but not limited to, a bus stop or train station, where the public
may access buses, trains, subways, and other forms of transportation that charge set fares, run on fixed
routes, and are available to the public.
L. "Tandem parking" means that two or more automobiles are parked on a driveway or in any other location on
a lot, lined up behind one another.
17.28.040 Approvals.
A. The following approvals apply to ADUs and JADUs created under this Chaptersection:
1. Ministerial ADU and Building Permits Required. Every ADU and JADU requires an ADU permit and a
building permit. The City will review and approve permit applications in accordance with subsection
(A)(3) below.
2. Processing Fee. The City may charge a fee to reimburse it for costs incurred in processing ADU permits,
including the costs of adopting or amending the City’s ADU ordinance. The ADU-permit processing fee
is determined by the Director of Community Development or other City employee as determined or
designated by the City Manager and approved by the City Council by resolution.
3. Process and Timing.
(a) Completeness.
(i) Determination in 15 days. The City will determine whether an application to create or serve
an ADU or JADU is complete and will provide written notice of the determination to the
applicant within 15 business days after the City receives the application submittal.
(ii) Incomplete items. If the City’s determination under subsection (A)(3)(a)(i) above is that the
application is incomplete, the City’s notice must list the incomplete items and describe how
the application can be made complete.
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(iii) Cure. After receiving a notice that the application is incomplete, the applicant may cure
and address the items that were deemed by the City to be incomplete.
(iv) Subsequent submittals. If the applicant submits additional information to address
incomplete items, within 15 business days of the subsequent submittal the City will
determine in writing whether the additional information remedies all the incomplete items
that the City identified in its original notice. The City may not require the application to
include an item that was not included in the original notice.
(v) Deemed complete. If the City does not make a timely determination as required by this
subsection (a), the application or resubmitted application is deemed complete for the
purposes of subsection (A)(3)(c) below.
(vi) Appeal of incompleteness. An applicant may appeal the City’s determination that the
application is incomplete by submitting a written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning
Commission will review the written appeal and affirm or reverse the completeness
determination and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60
business days after receipt of the appeal.
(b) No discretion or hearing. Ministerial permits for an ADU or JADU are considered and approved
without discretionary review or a hearing.
(c) Deadline to approval or deny ministerial approvals. The City must approve or deny an application
to create an ADU or JADU within 60 days from the date that the City receives a complete
application. If the City has not approved or denied the complete application within 60 days, the
application is deemed approved unless either:
(i) The applicant requests a delay, in which case the 60-day time period is tolled for the period
of the requested delay, or
(ii) When an application to create an ADU or JADU is submitted with a permit application to
create a new single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot, the City may delay acting on
the permit application for the ADU or JADU until the City acts on the permit application to
create the new single-family or multifamily dwelling, but the application to create the ADU
or JADU will still be considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing.
(d) Denial. If the City denies an application to create an ADU or JADU, the City must provide the
applicant with comments that include, among other things, a list of all the defective or deficient
items and a description of how the application may be remedied by the applicant. Notice of the
denial and corresponding comments must be provided to the applicant within the 60-day time
period established by subsection (A)(3)(c) above.
(e) Appeal of denial. An applicant may appeal the City’s denial of the application by submitting a
written appeal to the City Clerk. The Planning Commission will review the written appeal and
affirm or reverse the denial and provide a final written determination to the applicant within 60
business days after receipt of the appeal.
(f) Concurrent review of demolition. A demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be
replaced with an ADU is reviewed with the application for the ADU and issued at the same time.
B. Classes.
1. Class 1: Statutorily Regulated. Class 1 ADUs and JADUs are approved under Government Code Section
66323. If an ADU or JADU complies with each of the general requirements in Section 17.28.050, it is
allowed in each of the scenarios provided in this subsection (B)(1). An ADU and JADU approved under
subsection (B)(1)(a) may be combined with an ADU approved under subsection (B)(1)(b), and ADUs
approved under subsection (B)(1)(c) may be combined with ADUs approved under subsection (B)(1)(d).
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A. Building-Permit Only. If an ADU or JADU complies with each of the general requirements in Section 17.28.050
below, it is allowed with only a building permit in the following scenarios:
1.(a) Converted on Single-family Lot with Single-Family: One ADU as described in this subsection
(A)(1)(B)(1)(a) and one JADU on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling on it,
where the ADU or JADU:
(a)(i) Is either: within the space of a proposed single-family dwelling; within the existing space
of an existing single-family dwelling; or (in the case of an ADU only) within the existing
space of an accessory structure, plus up to one hundred fifty150 additional square feet if
the expansion is limited to accommodating ingress and egress; and
(b)(ii) Has exterior access that is independent of that for the single-family dwelling; and
(c)(iii) Has side and rear setbacks sufficient for fire and safety, as dictated by applicable building
and fire codes.
(d)(iv) The JADU complies with the requirements of Government Code sections Sections 66333
through 66339.
2.(b) Limited Detached on Single-family Lot with Single-Family: One detached, new-construction ADU
on a lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling (in addition to any JADU that might
otherwise be established on the lot under subsection (A)(1) above), if the detached ADU satisfies
each of the following limitations:
(a)(i) The side- and rear-yard setbacks are at least four feet.
(b)(ii) The total floor area is eight hundred 800 square feet of livable space or smaller.
(c)(iii) The peak height above grade does not exceed the applicable height limit in subsection
17.28.050(B) below.
3.(c) Converted on Multifamily Lot with Multifamily: One or more ADUs within portions of existing
multifamily dwelling structures that are not used as livable space, including but not limited to
storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages, if each converted ADU
complies with state building standards for dwellings. Under this subsection (A)(3)(B)(1)(c), at
least one converted ADU is allowed within an existing multifamily dwelling, up to a quantity
equal to twenty-five percent of the existing multifamily dwelling units.
4.(d) Limited Detached on Multifamily Lot with Multifamily: No more than two detached ADUs on a lot
with a proposed multifamily dwelling, or up to eight detached ADUs on a lot with an existing
multifamily dwelling, if each detached ADU satisfies all of the following:
(a)(i) The side- and rear-yard setbacks are at least four feet. If the existing multifamily dwelling
has a rear or side yard setback of less than four feet, the City will not require any
modification to the multifamily dwelling as a condition of approving the ADU.
(b)(ii) The peak height above grade does not exceed the applicable height limit provided in
subsection Section 17.28.050(B) below.
(c)(iii) If the lot has an existing multifamily dwelling, the quantity of detached ADUs does not
exceed the number of primary dwelling units on the lot.
2. Class 2: Locally Regulated. Class 2 ADUs are approved under Government Code Sections 66314–66322.
Except for Class 1 ADUs approved under subsection (B)(1) above, all ADUs are subject to the standards
set forth in Sections 17.28.050 and 17.28.060 below.
B. ADU Permit.
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1. Except as allowed under subsection 17.28.040(A) above, no ADU may be created without a building
permit and an ADU permit in compliance with the standards set forth in Sections 17.28.050 and
17.28.060 below.
2. The City may charge a fee to reimburse it for costs incurred in processing ADU permits, including the
costs of adopting or amending the City's ADU ordinance. The ADU-permit processing fee is determined
by the Director of Community Development or other City employee as determined or designated by
the City Manager and approved by the City Council by resolution.
C. Process and Timing.
1. An ADU permit is considered and approved ministerially, without discretionary review or a hearing.
2. The City must approve or deny an application to create an ADU or JADU within sixty days from the date
that the City receives a completed application. If the City has not approved or denied the completed
application within sixty days, the application is deemed approved unless either:
(a) The applicant requests a delay, in which case the sixty-day time period is tolled for the period of
the requested delay, or
(b) When an application to create an ADU or JADU is submitted with a permit application to create a
new single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot, the City may delay acting on the permit
application for the ADU or JADU until the City acts on the permit application to create the new
single-family or multifamily dwelling, but the application to create the ADU or JADU will still be
considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing.
3. If the City denies an application to create an ADU or JADU, the City must provide the applicant with
comments that include, among other things, a list of all the defective or deficient items and a
description of how the application may be remedied by the applicant. Notice of the denial and
corresponding comments must be provided to the applicant within the sixty-day time period
established by subsection 17.28.040(C)(2) above.
4. A demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU is reviewed with the
application for the ADU and issued at the same time.
17.28.050 General ADU and JADU requirements.
The following requirements apply to all Class 1 and Class 2 ADUs and JADUs that are approved under subsections
17.28.040 (A) or (B) above:
A. Zoning.
1. AnA Class 1 ADU subject only to a building permit approved under subsection 17.28.040(A)(B)(1) above
may be created on a lot in a residential or mixed-use zone.
2. AnA Class 2 ADU subject to an ADU permit approved under subsection 17.28.040(B)(2) above may be
created on a lot that is zoned to allow single-family dwelling residential use or multifamily dwelling
residential use.
3. In accordance with Government Code Section 66333(a), a JADU may only be created on a lot zoned for
single-family residences.
B. Height.
1. Except as otherwise provided by subsections (B)(2) and (B)(3) below, a detached ADU created on a lot
with an existing or proposed single family or multifamily dwelling unit may not exceed sixteen feet in
height.
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2. A detached ADU may be up to eighteen feet in height if it is created on a lot with an existing or
proposed single family or multifamily dwelling unit that is located within one-half mile walking distance
of a major transit stop or high quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of
the Public Resources Code, and the ADU may be up to two additional feet in height (for a maximum of
twenty feet) if necessary to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of
the primary dwelling unit.
3. A detached ADU created on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily dwelling that has more than
one story above grade may not exceed eighteen feet in height.
4. An ADU that is attached to the primary dwelling may not exceed twenty-five feet in height or the
height limitation imposed by the underlying zone that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is
lower. Notwithstanding the foregoing, ADUs subject to this subsection (B)(4) may not exceed two
stories.
5. For purposes of this subsection (B), height is measured from existing legal grade or the level of the
lowest floor, whichever is lower, to the peak of the structure.
C. Fire Sprinklers.
1. Fire sprinklers are required in an ADU or JADU if sprinklers are required in the primary residence.
2. The construction of an ADU or JADU does not trigger a requirement for fire sprinklers to be installed in
the existing primary dwelling.
D. Rental Term. No ADU or JADU may be rented for a term that is shorter than 30 thirty days. This prohibition
applies regardless of when the ADU or JADU was created.
E. No Separate Conveyance. An ADU or JADU may be rented, but, except as otherwise provided in Government
Code Section 66341, no ADU or JADU may be sold or otherwise conveyed separately from the lot and the
primary dwelling (in the case of a single-family lot) or from the lot and all of the dwellings (in the case of a
multifamily lot).
F. Septic System. If the ADU or JADU will connect to an onsite wastewater-treatment system, the owner must
include with the application a percolation test completed within the last five years or, if the percolation test
has been recertified, within the last ten years.
G. Owner Occupancy.
1. ADUs created under this section on or after January 1, 2020 are not subject to an owner-occupancy
requirement.
2. JADUs.
(a) Generally. As required by state law, all JADUs are generally subject to an owner-occupancy
requirement. A natural person with legal or equitable title to the property must reside on the
property, in either the primary dwelling or JADU, as the person's legal domicile and permanent
residence. However, the owner-occupancy requirement in this subsection (G)(2) does not apply if
the property is entirely owned by another governmental agency, land trust, or housing
organization.
(b) Exceptions. The owner-occupancy requirement in this subsection (G)(2) does not apply in either
of the following situations:
(i) The JADU has separate sanitation facilities (i.e., does not share sanitation facilities with the
existing primary dwelling unit structure).
(ii) The property is entirely owned by another governmental agency, land trust, or housing
organization.
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H. Deed Restriction. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for an ADU or a JADU, a deed restriction
must be recorded against the title of the property in the County Recorder's office and a copy filed with the
Director or other City employee as determined or designated by the City Manager. The deed restriction must
run with the land and bind all future owners. The form of the deed restriction will be provided by the City
and must provide that:
1. Except as otherwise provided in Government Code Section 66341, the ADU or The JADU may not be
sold separately from the primary dwelling.
2. The ADU or JADU is restricted to the approved size and to other attributes allowed by this section
Chapter.
3. The deed restriction runs with the land and may be enforced against future property owners.
4. The deed restriction may be removed if the owner eliminates the ADU or JADU, as evidenced by, for
example, removal of the kitchen facilities. To remove the deed restriction, an owner may make a
written request of the Director or other City employee as determined or designated by the City
Manager, providing evidence that the ADU or JADU has in fact been eliminated. The Director or other
City employee as determined or designated by the City Manager may then determine whether the
evidence supports the claim that the ADU or JADU has been eliminated. Appeal may be taken from the
Director's or other City employee as determined or designated by the City Manager determination
consistent with other provisions of this code. If the ADU or JADU is not entirely physically removed, but
is only eliminated by virtue of having a necessary component of an ADU or JADU removed, the
remaining structure and improvements must otherwise comply with applicable provisions of this code.
5. The deed restriction is enforceable by the director or other City employee as determined or designated
by the City Manager for the benefit of the City. Failure of the property owner to comply with the deed
restriction may result in legal action against the property owner, and the City is authorized to obtain
any remedy available to it at law or equity, including, but not limited to, obtaining an injunction
enjoining the use of the ADU or JADU in violation of the recorded restrictions or abatement of the
illegal unit.
I. Occupancy Reporting. With a building-permit application, the applicant must provide the City the applicant's
intention regarding the occupancy plans for the ADU or JADU. Within ninety days after each January 1
following issuance of the building permit, the owner must report whether or not the ADU or JADU was
occupied by a tenant during the prior year.
IJ. Building & Safety.
1. Must Comply with Building Code. Subject to subsection (J)(2)(I)(2) below, all ADUs and JADUs must
comply with all local building code requirements.
2. No Change of Occupancy. Construction of an ADU does not constitute a Group R occupancy change
under the local building code, as described in Section 310 of the California Building Code, unless the
Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in
the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and
safety. Nothing in this subsection (J)(2)(I)(2) prevents the City from changing the occupancy code of a
space that was uninhabitable space or that was only permitted for nonresidential use and was
subsequently converted for residential use in accordance with this section Chapter.
J. Certificate of Occupancy Timing.
1. Generally. No certificate of occupancy for an ADU or JADU may be issued before the certificate of
occupancy is issued for the primary dwelling unit.
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2. Limited Exception for State-declared Emergencies. Notwithstanding subsection (J)(1) above, a
certificate of occupancy for an ADU may be issued before a certificate of occupancy for the primary
dwelling if each of the following requirements are met:
(a) The county is subject to a proclamation of a state of emergency made by the California Governor
on or after February 1, 2025.
(b) The primary dwelling was substantially damaged or destroyed by an event referenced in the
Governor’s state of emergency proclamation.
(c) The ADU has been issued construction permits and has passed all required inspections.
(d) The ADU is not attached to the primary dwelling.
17.28.060 Specific ADU requirements.
The following requirements apply only to Class 2 ADUs that require an ADU permit approved under
subsection 17.28.040(B)(2) above:
A. Maximum Size.
1. The maximum size of a detached or attached ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 is eight hundred
fifty 850 square feet of interior livable space for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000one thousand
square feet for a unit of interior livable space with two or more bedrooms.
2. An attached ADU that is created on a lot with an existing primary dwelling is further limited to 50 fifty
percent of the floor area of the existing primary dwelling.
3. Application of other development standards in this Section 17.28.060, such as FAR or lot coverage,
might further limit the size of the ADU, but no application of the percent-based size limit in subsection
(A)(2) above or of an FAR, front setback, lot coverage limit, or open-space requirement may require the
ADU to be less than eight hundred800 square feet.
B. Floor Area Ratio (FAR). No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total FAR of the lot to exceed
forty-five 45 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
C. Setbacks.
1. ADUs that are subject to this Section 17.28.060 must conform to four-foot side and rear setbacks.
2. ADUs that are subject to this Section 17.28.060 must conform to 30thirty-foot front setbacks, subject
to subsection (A)(3) above.
3. No setback is required for an ADU that is subject to this Section 17.28.060 if the ADU is constructed in
the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure.
D. Lot Coverage. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total lot coverage of the lot to exceed
fifty 50 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
E. Minimum Open Space. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may cause the total percentage of open
space of the lot to fall below fifty 50 percent, subject to subsection (A)(3) above.
F. Passageway. No passageway, as defined by Section 17.28.030(I) above, is required for an ADU.
G. Parking.
1. Generally. One off-street parking space is required for each ADU or bedroom, whichever is less. The
parking space may be provided in setback areas or as tandem parking, as defined by subsection Section
17.28.030(L) above.
2. Exceptions. No parking under subsection 17.28.060(G)(1) is required in the following situations:
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(a) The ADU is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, as defined in Section
17.28.030(K) above.
(b) The ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
(c) The ADU is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure under
subsection 17.28.040(A)(1) above.
(d) When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
(e) When there is an established car share vehicle stop located within one block of the ADU.
(f) When the permit application to create an ADU is submitted with an application to create a new
single-family or new multifamily dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU or the lot
satisfies any other criteria listed in subsections (G)(2)(a) through (e) above.
3. No Replacement. When a garage, carport, covered parking structure, or uncovered parking space is
demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU, those off-street
parking spaces are not required to be replaced.
H. Architectural Requirements.
1. The materials and colors of the exterior walls, roof, and windows and doors must be the same as those
of the primary dwelling.
2. The roof slope must match that of the dominant roof slope of the primary dwelling. The dominant roof
slope is the slope shared by the largest portion of the roof.
3. The exterior lighting must be limited to down-lights or as otherwise required by the building or fire
code.
4. The ADU must have an independent exterior entrance, apart from that of the primary dwelling.
5. The interior horizontal dimensions of an ADU must be at least ten feet wide in every direction, with a
minimum interior wall height of seven feet.
6. No window or door of the ADU may have a direct line of sight to an adjoining residential property. Each
window and door must either be located where there is no direct line of sight or screened using
fencing, landscaping, or privacy glass to prevent a direct line of sight.
7. All windows and doors in an ADU less than thirty feet from a property line that is not a public right-of-
way line must either be (for windows) clerestory with the bottom of the glass at least six feet above the
finished floor, or (for windows and for doors) utilize frosted or obscure glass.
I. Historical Protections. An ADU that is on or within six hundred feet of real property that is listed in the
California Register of Historic Resources must be located so as to not be visible from any public right-of-way.
J. Allowed Stories. No ADU subject to this Section 17.28.060 may have more than one story, except that an
ADU that is attached to the primary dwelling may have the stories allowed under subsection 17.28.050(B)(4).
17.28.070 Fees.
The following requirements apply to all Class 1 ADUs and JADUs and Class 2 ADUs that are approved under
subsections 17.28.040(A)(B)(1) or 17.28.040(B)(2) above.
A. Impact Fees.
1. No impact fee is required for a JADU or for an ADU that is less than seven hundred fifty750 square feet
of interior livable space in size. For purposes of this Sectionsubsection 17.28.070(A), "impact fee"
means a "fee" under the Mitigation Fee Act (Gov. Code § 66000(b)) and a fee under the Quimby Act
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(Gov. Code § 66477). "Impact fee" here does not include any connection fee or capacity charge for
water or sewer service.
2. A JADU or ADU with less than 500 square feet of interior livable space does not increase assessable
space by 500 square feet for purposes of Education Code Section 17620(a)(1)(C), and is therefore not
subject to school fees under Education Code section 17620.
23. Any impact fee that is required for an ADU that ishas seven hundred fifty 750 square feet or larger in
sizemore of interior livable space must be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of
the primary dwelling unit. (E.g., the floor area of the ADU, divided by the floor area of the primary
dwelling, times the typical fee amount charged for a new dwelling.)
B. Utility Fees.
1. If an ADU or JADU is constructed with a new single-family home, a separate utility connection directly
between the ADU or JADU and the utility and payment of the normal connection fee and capacity
charge for a new dwelling are required.
2. Except as described in subsection 17.28.070(B)(1), JADUs and converted ADUs on a single-family lot
that are created under subsection (B)(1)(a) are not required to have a new or separate utility
connection directly between the JADU or ADU and the utility. Nor is a connection fee or capacity
charge required. Notwithstanding the rest of this paragraph, a direct utility connection is required for
separate conveyance of an ADU when separate conveyance is allowed under this code.
3. Except as described in subsection 17.28.070(B)(1), all ADUs that are not covered by subsection
17.28.070(B)(2), require a new, separate utility connection directly between the ADU and the utility for
any utility that is provided by the City. All utilities that are not provided by the City are subject to the
connection and fee requirements of the utility provider.
(a) The connection is subject to a connection fee or capacity charge that is proportionate to the
burden created by the ADU based on either the floor area or the number of drainage-fixture
units (DFU) values, as defined by the Uniform Plumbing Code, upon the water or sewer system.
(b) The portion of the fee or charge that is charged by the City may not exceed the reasonable cost
of providing this service.
17.28.080 Nonconforming zoning code conditions, building code violations, and unpermitted
structures.
A. Generally. The City will not deny an ADU or JADU application due to a nonconforming zoning condition,
building code violation, or unpermitted structure on the lot that does not present a threat to the public
health and safety and that is not affected by the construction of the ADU or JADU.
B. Unpermitted ADUs and JADUs constructed before 2020.
1. Permit to Legalize. As required by state law, the City may not deny a permit to legalize an existing but
unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if denial is based on either of
the following grounds:
(a) The ADU or JADU violates applicable building standards, or
(b) The ADU or JADU does not comply with state ADU or JADU law or this ADU ordinance (Chapter
17.28).
2. Exceptions:
(a) Notwithstanding subsection 17.28.080(B)(1), the City may deny a permit to legalize an existing
but unpermitted ADU or JADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the City makes a
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65277.00001\44382483.2
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finding that correcting a violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California
Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
(b) Subsection 17.28.080(B)(1) does not apply to a building that is deemed to be substandard in
accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
17.28.090 Nonconforming ADUs and discretionary approval.
Any proposed ADU or JADU that would otherwise be allowed under this section Chapter but that does not
conform to the objective design or development standards set forth in Section 17.28.010 through 17.28.080 of this
chapterChapter may be allowed by the City with a conditional use permit, in accordance with the other provisions
of this title.
17.28.100 Parcels Created Under Government Code Section 66499.41.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Chapter, no ADU or JADU may be created on a
parcel resulting from a subdivision under Government Code section 66499.41. (Gov. Code, § 66499.41(g).)
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