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Monrovia introduces updated ADU ordinance to align with state law; public hearing set Feb. 4
Summary
Council introduced an ordinance to update Monrovia municipal code on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs to comply with recent state changes, created a two‑track approach (streamlined state minimums vs. local alternative standards), and approved holding a public hearing Feb. 4, 2025.
The City Council on Jan. 21 introduced and set for public hearing on Feb. 4 an ordinance updating Monrovia's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and junior ADU (JADU) rules to conform with recent state legislation. The proposed code creates two regulatory paths: a streamlined state‑minimum track and a set of Monrovia‑specific alternative objective standards for applicants who want larger ADUs or design review.
Senior Planner Jennifer Driver told the council that several state laws effective Jan. 1, 2025 require cities to reduce local review barriers and allow more ADU types. "The overall intent of these bills is to increase ADU development potential on residential lots by further reducing local barriers and streamlining the ministerial review process," Driver said. Under the streamlined standards, some properties can build up to three ADU types plus a JADU (for example, conversion of existing space and a newly constructed detached ADU), subject to state minimum setbacks, size limits and height allowances. Properties choosing Monrovia's alternative standards would be subject to objective local design criteria and could seek larger units, but would face the city's additional, non‑discretionary requirements.
The ordinance incorporates new state provisions including expanded height allowances near qualifying transit stops, limits on local parking requirements for streamlined ADUs, and the prohibition against restricting ADU sales via covenant. Driver said the city selected five prototype plans as part of a pilot preapproved‑plan program developed with the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments; those plans meet the state's streamlined standards and are intended to lower costs and simplify approvals for builders.
Council members raised questions about parking, ownership, and impacts on multifamily properties. Driver confirmed that in many streamlined cases the state bars local parking requirements; parking can be required where local alternative standards are used and no statutory exemption applies. She said multifamily properties may be eligible for a greater number of detached ADUs in certain circumstances but noted practical limits where open yard space is required. After discussion, the council voted to introduce the ordinance and schedule the Feb. 4 public hearing.
What happens next: The council will take public testimony and consider second reading at the Feb. 4 meeting; staff plans outreach and resources to help residents navigate the new rules, including expanding a pilot preapproved ADU plan portfolio.
