How to Get ADU Permit in Hollywood: Complete 2025 Guide

Key Takeaways

• Hollywood ADU permits are processed through LADBS (Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety) at the Metro office—no separate Hollywood district office exists

• Total permit costs range from $1,500-$20,000+ depending on project scope, with ADUs under 750 sq ft qualifying for waived impact fees

• Permit approval timelines span 30-180 days by state law, with pre-approved plans accelerating reviews to 30-60 days versus 90-180 days for custom designs

• 95% of Hollywood qualifies for parking requirement waivers due to proximity to Metro Red Line and bus routes within 1/2 mile of transit

• Maximum ADU size is 1,200 sq ft for detached units, with 4-foot minimum setbacks and 16-18 foot height limits

• CalHFA ADU Grant Program formerly provided up to $40,000 for pre-development costs but is no longer active as of 2023

• Mesocore's factory-installed MEP systems with Intertek certification eliminate rough-in inspections in some jurisdictions, reducing total inspection requirements and accelerating construction timelines

Hollywood's housing market continues to tighten as Los Angeles faces rising median home prices and a growing demand for affordable housing solutions. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) represent one of the most effective strategies for Hollywood homeowners to generate rental income, accommodate family members, or increase property value. Mesocore's modular ADU offers Hollywood residents a streamlined path to ADU ownership with factory-installed utilities, pre-certified systems, and hurricane-grade construction that simplifies Los Angeles' complex permitting process.

The ADU permit process in Hollywood requires navigating Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety regulations, with timelines ranging from 6-18 months from initial design through Certificate of Occupancy. Understanding the requirements, costs, and procedural steps can mean the difference between a smooth approval and costly delays.

Understanding Hollywood's ADU permit requirements

Hollywood's ADU regulations follow Los Angeles citywide standards governed by the International Building Code (IBC) and California state ADU laws that mandate streamlined approval processes. All permits are processed through LADBS Metro Office at 201 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles—no separate Hollywood district office exists despite some outdated references online.

Geographic eligibility is straightforward: ADUs are permitted throughout Hollywood's residential zones including:

• Central Hollywood (90028) - Standard ADU rules apply

• East Hollywood (90027) - Standard rules with some historic overlays

• Hollywood Hills (90046, 90068) - Hillside regulations require additional engineering

• West Hollywood (90069) - Separate jurisdiction with different permit process (not covered by LADBS)

Maximum size allowances for Hollywood ADUs include:

• Detached ADUs: 1,200 sq ft maximum

• Attached ADUs: Lesser of 50% of primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft

• Junior ADUs (JADUs): 500 sq ft maximum, created within existing structure

Setback requirements are among the most lenient in California:

• Minimum 4 feet from rear and side property lines for most detached ADUs

• Zero setbacks permitted for conversions of existing structures in some cases

• Fire department access may require additional clearances in Hollywood Hills areas

Height restrictions vary by location:

• 16-18 feet for single-story detached ADUs (standard)

• Up to 25 feet for attached ADUs or two-story detached units

• Hillside areas may have additional restrictions requiring consultation with LADBS

Parking requirements represent a major advantage for Hollywood residents:

• No additional parking required if property is within 1/2 mile of public transit

• 95% of Hollywood qualifies due to Metro Red Line and extensive bus routes

• This eliminates the traditional barrier of needing to create additional parking spaces

Owner-occupancy is NOT required as of 2025 California ADU law changes, allowing both the primary residence and ADU to be rented simultaneously. This creates significant investment opportunities for Hollywood property owners seeking rental income.

The complete permit application process

Hollywood's ADU permitting involves multiple sequential phases through LADBS, with each step requiring specific documentation and review periods.

Phase 1: Verify eligibility and zoning compliance

Start with ZIMAS to check:

• Property zoning designation (R1, R2, R3, RD, etc.)

• Lot size and setback requirements

• Existing structures and coverage limits

• Historic overlay zones (HPOZ)—common in parts of Hollywood

• Hillside regulations for Hollywood Hills properties

Contact LADBS Zoning Code Desk at (213) 482-6800 for property-specific questions. This initial verification is free online or $30-500 for a formal Zoning Information Letter with 5-10 business day processing.

Phase 2: Develop architectural plans and engineering

You'll need licensed California architects or engineers to prepare:

• Architectural Plans: Site plan, floor plans, elevations, roof plan

• Structural Calculations: Foundation plan, framing plan, engineered details

• Title 24 Energy Compliance: Energy calculations using approved software

• MEP Plans: Mechanical, electrical, plumbing layouts

Two options exist:

• Pre-Approved Plans: $5,000-$10,000, accelerating plan check to 30-60 days

• Custom Design: $15,000-$30,000, with 60-180 day review timelines

For Hollywood homeowners, Mesocore's modular ADU simplifies this phase significantly. The factory-installed MEP systems arrive with Intertek certification, providing pre-approved documentation that streamlines plan reviews and reduces the need for multiple engineering consultants.

Phase 3: Submit permit application through LADBS

Applications are submitted via the ePlanLA portal or in-person at LADBS Metro Office. Required documents include:

• Completed building permit application

• 3 sets of plans (or digital submission)

• Structural calculations with engineer's seal

• Title 24 energy compliance documentation

• Soil reports (if required for hillside properties)

• Property survey or plot plan

• Proof of ownership

• HOA approval (if applicable)

Critical requirement: All architectural plans must have digitally sealed 3rd-party signatures from licensed professionals. Applications lacking these verifiable seals will be rejected.

Contact information:

• Phone: (213) 482-6800 or 3-1-1 within LA

• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

• Location: 201 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90012

Phase 4: Plan check and review

LADBS plan checkers review applications for code compliance across multiple departments:

• Building and Safety plan checkers

• Fire Department (life safety)

• Bureau of Engineering (utilities if applicable)

• Department of City Planning (zoning compliance)

State-mandated timeline: California law requires 60 days maximum for compliant ADU applications. Actual timelines vary:

• Simple projects with pre-approved plans: 30-45 days

• Custom designs requiring corrections: 60-120 days

• Complex sites (hillside, HPOZ): 90-180 days

Each correction cycle adds 2-4 weeks, making complete initial submissions critical for timeline management.

Phase 5: Obtain building permit

After plan check approval:

• Pay outstanding permit fees through ePlanLA or in-person

• Receive approved stamped plans

• Get building permit card (must display at construction site)

• Permits valid for 180 days; construction must begin or permit expires

• One 180-day extension available upon request

Phase 6: Utility connections and inspections

Contact LADWP for:

• Electric service: (800) 342-5397, 6-8 week service planning

• Water connection: ~90 days for small service

• Sewer lateral: May require Bureau of Engineering S-Permit, 4-12 weeks

Traditional construction requires multiple inspections:

• Foundation inspection (before concrete pour)

• Framing inspection

• Rough plumbing, electrical, mechanical

• Insulation and drywall

• Final inspection

Mesocore advantage: Factory-installed MEP systems with Intertek certification may eliminate rough-in inspections in some jurisdictions, reducing total inspection requirements and accelerating construction timelines. The pre-certified systems arrive fully tested, requiring only connection and final verification.

Phase 7: Certificate of Occupancy

After passing all final inspections:

• Certificate of Occupancy issued by LADBS

• Required before ADU can be occupied or rented

• No additional fee for CO

• Timeline: 1-2 weeks after construction completion

Permit costs and fee breakdown

Hollywood ADU permit costs are calculated based on construction valuation and represent 2-3% of total project costs. Understanding the fee structure helps with accurate budgeting.

Garage conversion ADU (400 sq ft, ~$75,000 valuation)

• Building Permit: $1,200 - $2,000

• Plan Check Fee: $500 - $1,000

• Zoning Review: $30 - $500

• Total: $1,496 - $3,000

Detached new construction ADU (1,200 sq ft, ~$150,000 valuation)

• Building Permit: $3,500 - $7,500

• Plan Check Fee: $1,500 - $5,000

• School District Fee: $1,000 - $3,000 (units >500 sq ft)

• Energy Surcharge: $500 - $1,000

• Impact Fees: WAIVED for ADUs under 750 sq ft (SB 13)

• Total: $5,000 - $20,000+

Additional soft costs

• Design & Architecture: $10,000 - $30,000

• Structural Engineering: $3,000 - $10,000

• Title 24 Energy Compliance: $1,200 - $2,500

• Soil/Geotech Report: $2,000 - $5,000 (if required)

• Survey/Plot Plan: $800 - $2,000

• Utility Connection Fees: $8,000 - $20,000

Total soft costs for Hollywood ADUs typically range from $28,000-$79,500 depending on project size and complexity.

Construction costs per square foot

• Garage Conversion: $150-$250/sq ft ($90,000-$200,000 total)

• Detached ADU (Standard): $200-$400/sq ft ($150,000-$350,000 total)

• Prefab/Modular ADU: $150-$300/sq ft ($120,000-$250,000 total)

For Hollywood homeowners seeking cost-effective solutions, Mesocore's Model E starts at $129,000, competitive with California pricing when factoring in integrated solar, rainwater collection, and factory-installed utilities that would cost $15,000-$25,000 separately.

Working with Hollywood ADU contractors

Selecting experienced contractors familiar with LADBS processes can reduce timelines by 20-30% and prevent costly mistakes.

Verified Hollywood-area ADU contractors

Revival Homes

• Complete ADU planning and permitting

• Average 3-month permit processing

• Custom design services

• Financing assistance

• Full construction management

• Contact: revivaladu.com

LADU (Los Angeles ADU Company)

• Architect-led ADU design

• Zoning analysis and site assessment

• Fixed-fee pricing

• Handles all LADBS communication

• Garage conversions and detached ADUs

• Contact: ladu.co

Cali ADU

• Garage conversion specialists

• Small detached ADUs

• Deep knowledge of LA building codes

• Turnkey projects $175,000-$300,000

• Contact: cali-adu.com

NEO Builders ADU

• Hollywood area specialist

• Garage conversions to ADU

• In-house design and planning

• LADBS coordination expertise

• Contact: neobuildersadu.com

AP Remodeling

• Ranked #1 ADU contractor for 2025

• Custom ADU builds

• Full permit management

• Design to final inspection

• Contact: apremodelinginc.com

What to look for in contractors

• Valid California contractor's license

• Specific ADU project experience in Los Angeles

• Portfolio of completed Hollywood/LA projects

• References from recent ADU clients

• Insurance: general liability and worker's compensation

• Familiarity with LADBS permit process

• Transparent pricing and timeline estimates

Timeline expectations from start to finish

Hollywood ADU projects span 6-18 months from initial design through Certificate of Occupancy, with significant variation based on project complexity.

Complete timeline breakdown

Pre-Application Phase (1-4 weeks)

• Design and drawing preparation: 2-6 weeks

• Zoning verification: 1-3 days

• Document gathering: 1-2 weeks

Building Permit Phase (6-10 weeks)

• Application preparation: 1-2 weeks

• Initial plan review: 4 weeks average (30-60 day legal maximum)

• Revision cycles: 2-3 weeks each (typically 1-2 cycles)

• Final approval: 3-5 days

• Fee payment and issuance: 1-3 days

Construction Phase (4-6 months traditional)

• Foundation and site work: 2-4 weeks

• Framing: 3-6 weeks

• Rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, mechanical): 2-4 weeks

• Finish work: 4-8 weeks

• Final inspections: 1-2 weeks

Accelerated timeline with modular construction

Mesocore's modular approach reduces on-site construction to approximately one week for installation:

• Steel core arrives as 20-foot container

• All electrical, plumbing, and solar factory-installed

• Unit expands to 410 square feet on-site

• Requires only foundation work, placement, expansion, and finish connections

• Eliminates 2-4 week rough-in phase and associated inspections

• Faster path to rental income or family occupancy

Factors accelerating timelines

• Complete applications with proper digital seals

• Pre-approved plans reducing review to 30-60 days

• Professional preparation by licensed architects familiar with LA codes

• Off-season submission in fall and winter

• Expedited review (50-100% additional fee, reduces review to 7-10 days)

• Pre-application consultation with LADBS before submittal

Factors extending timelines

• Incomplete applications stuck in review

• Plan revisions adding 2-3 weeks per cycle

• High permit volume in spring/summer (25-50% longer reviews)

• Complex hillside sites requiring additional engineering

• Missing documents or signatures

• Inspection failures requiring corrections (1-2 weeks each)

Hollywood-specific considerations

Hollywood's unique geography and neighborhood characteristics create specific challenges and opportunities for ADU development.

Hillside regulations (Hollywood Hills)

Properties in 90046 and 90068 zip codes often face:

• Steeper lot requirements for additional engineering

• Soil stability and geotechnical reports

• Fire department access requirements

• Stricter slope and drainage standards

• Potential for longer permit review timelines (90-180 days)

Contact LADBS at (213) 482-6800 to verify hillside designation before starting design work.

Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZ)

Some Hollywood neighborhoods include designated historic districts requiring:

• Additional design review for architectural compatibility

• Consultation with Historic Resources Group

• Potential restrictions on ADU exterior appearance

• Extended review timelines

Check ZIMAS to identify HPOZ designation on your property.

Transit proximity advantages

95% of Hollywood qualifies for parking requirement waivers due to:

• Metro Red Line stations (Hollywood/Highland, Hollywood/Vine, Hollywood/Western)

• Extensive bus routes throughout neighborhood

• Properties within 1/2 mile of transit exempt from parking requirements

This major advantage eliminates the need to create additional parking spaces, reducing costs and simplifying site plans.

Fire department access

Hollywood Hills properties must ensure:

• Adequate emergency vehicle access

• Minimum road width requirements

• Turnaround space for fire trucks

• Compliance with Los Angeles Fire Department standards

Consult with LADBS early in the design process to verify access requirements for hillside properties.

Why Mesocore is the smart choice for Hollywood ADUs

Hollywood homeowners face unique challenges with ADU development: steep hillsides, historic preservation requirements, complex LADBS permitting, and construction timelines that can stretch to 12-18 months with traditional builders. Mesocore's modular ADU addresses these challenges with a factory-built solution specifically engineered for California's building codes and environmental conditions.

Factory-installed MEP systems eliminate inspection delays

One of the most significant bottlenecks in traditional ADU construction is coordinating multiple trades—electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians—and scheduling separate rough-in inspections for each system. Mesocore eliminates this complexity entirely. All Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems are factory-installed and Intertek-certified before delivery. This third-party certification means the systems arrive pre-inspected and tested, potentially eliminating rough-in inspections on-site in some jurisdictions. For Hollywood homeowners navigating LADBS's multi-departmental review process, this streamlined approach reduces total inspection requirements and accelerates construction timelines.

Pre-approved designs accelerate LADBS reviews

LADBS plan reviews typically take 30-60 days for pre-approved plans versus 90-180 days for custom designs. Mesocore's standardized Model E ADU design can be adapted as a pre-approved plan for Los Angeles, cutting permit approval time by 50-70%. The factory documentation, structural engineering, and energy calculations arrive complete, reducing the revision cycles that plague most first-time ADU applications.

Integrated solar and off-grid capability

While California doesn't mandate solar for ADUs, Mesocore's 6 kW solar with dual 10 kWh lithium-ion batteries provides:

• Zero monthly utility bills for tenants (increasing rental appeal)

• 30% federal solar tax credit through 2032

• Off-grid capability in some configurations (eliminating utility connection fees)

• Energy independence during power outages (common in Hollywood Hills)

For rental properties, the integrated solar system makes ADUs more attractive to environmentally conscious tenants and can command premium rents in Hollywood's competitive market.

Hurricane-grade construction exceeds California seismic requirements

Mesocore's 180 mph wind-rated construction with robotically welded steel frames provides structural resilience that exceeds California's seismic requirements. The impact-rated windows and doors, engineered foundation connections, and steel core design deliver peace of mind for Hollywood Hills properties on steep terrain where soil stability is a concern.

One-week installation vs. 4-6 month traditional construction

Traditional site-built ADUs require 4-6 months of on-site construction with weather delays, trade coordination challenges, and neighborhood disruption. Mesocore's approach:

• Unit ships as standard 20-foot container

• Steel core expands to 410 sq ft on-site

• Installation completed in approximately one week

• All systems factory-tested before delivery

• Minimal neighborhood disruption

• Weather-independent factory construction

For Hollywood homeowners seeking rental income, this accelerated timeline means 3-5 months faster path to positive cash flow compared to traditional construction.

Competitive pricing with superior features

Mesocore's Model E starts at $129,000, including:

• Complete 410 sq ft, 1BR/1BA layout

• 6 kW solar array with battery storage

• Factory-installed electrical, plumbing, HVAC

• Hurricane-rated windows and doors

• Luxury vinyl plank flooring

• High-end Lioher cabinetry

• Energy Star appliances

• 1,700-gallon rainwater collection system

When compared to Hollywood's typical ADU construction costs of $200-$400 per square foot ($80,000-$160,000 for a comparable 400 sq ft unit before adding solar), Mesocore's integrated approach delivers superior value. The included solar system alone represents $15,000-$25,000 in value if purchased separately.

Financing Through Ocean Capital Lending

Ocean Capital Lending provides additional financing options covering:

• Land acquisition costs

• Construction expenses

• Conversion to traditional mortgage upon completion

Contact Mesocore for detailed financing guidance and county-specific incentive calculations.

Perfect for Hollywood's rental market

Hollywood's strong rental market with average ADU rents of $2,000-$2,500/month makes Mesocore units particularly attractive for investment purposes. Zero utility bills from the integrated solar system increases tenant appeal and rental premium potential.

For Hollywood homeowners ready to add an ADU, Mesocore offers a turnkey solution that simplifies LADBS permitting, accelerates construction timelines, and delivers sustainable, hurricane-grade housing at competitive pricing. Contact Mesocore at 561-386-7252 or visit mesocore.com to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Hollywood?

ADU permit approval in Hollywood takes 30-180 days depending on project complexity. Pre-approved plans can achieve approval in 30-60 days, while custom designs typically require 60-120 days. Complex hillside sites or properties in Historic Preservation Overlay Zones may extend to 90-180 days. Total timeline from design through Certificate of Occupancy spans 6-18 months. Mesocore's modular ADU with factory-installed systems can reduce on-site construction to approximately one week, accelerating the path to rental income compared to traditional 4-6 month construction timelines.

What are the total costs for building an ADU in Hollywood?

Total costs vary significantly by project type. Garage conversions typically cost $90,000-$200,000 including permits, while detached new construction ADUs range from $150,000-$350,000. Permit fees alone range from $1,500-$20,000+ depending on construction value, with ADUs under 750 sq ft qualifying for waived impact fees under SB 13. Additional soft costs include design ($10,000-$30,000), engineering ($3,000-$10,000), and utility connections ($8,000-$20,000). Homeowners should explore available financing options and assistance programs to help offset costs.

Do I need parking for my Hollywood ADU?

No parking is required for 95% of Hollywood properties due to proximity to public transit. California law exempts ADUs within 1/2 mile of transit stops from parking requirements, and Hollywood's extensive Metro Red Line access and bus routes mean most properties qualify. This eliminates the traditional barrier of creating additional parking spaces and reduces project costs. Properties in Hollywood Hills or areas without transit access may require one parking space, verifiable through ZIMAS.

Can I rent out my ADU in Hollywood?

Yes, Hollywood ADUs can be rented to non-family members with no owner-occupancy requirement as of 2025 California ADU laws. This creates significant rental income opportunities, with Hollywood ADU rents averaging $2,000-$2,500/month. Both the primary residence and ADU can be rented simultaneously, providing flexibility for investment strategies. Mesocore's integrated solar with zero utility bills increases tenant appeal and can command premium rents in Hollywood's competitive market.

What's the difference between LADBS and City of West Hollywood permits?

LADBS (Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety) processes permits for Hollywood neighborhoods within the City of Los Angeles (90028, 90027, 90038, 90046, 90068 zip codes). The City of West Hollywood (90069) is a separate jurisdiction with its own building department and permit process. West Hollywood residents must apply through West Hollywood's building department, not LADBS. Verify your jurisdiction before starting the permit process to ensure you contact the correct agency.

How does Mesocore's factory-installed system work with LADBS inspections?

Mesocore ADUs arrive with all MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems factory-installed and Intertek-certified before delivery. This third-party certification means systems are pre-inspected and tested at the factory level. In some jurisdictions, this eliminates the need for rough-in plumbing, mechanical, and electrical inspections on-site, reducing total inspection requirements and accelerating construction timelines. The steel core structure arrives with complete documentation for LADBS plan reviews, simplifying the approval process compared to coordinating multiple trade contractors for site-built construction.