El Monte's code exempts conversion of an existing legal structure from the new detached ADU's 4 ft side and rear setback. It also says parking removed for an ADU does not need replacing, while the City's code limits a single-family lot to one ADU plus one junior ADU.
Last verified 2026-10-18. Rules change; the City of El Monte Building & Safety Division has the final word ((626) 580-2050).
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Under El Monte's general design standards, Municipal Code 17.110.030(M)(4) calls for a 3 ft wide planter between a garage-conversion ADU and the driveway. Section (M)(7) allows a waiver where infeasible, and the exempt-unit path in (U) overrides those design standards. Ask Building & Safety which path applies.
El Monte Municipal Code 17.110.030(M)(4), (M)(7) and (U)The City's Table 17.110-1 allows one ADU plus one junior ADU on a single-family lot. Government Code 66323(a) permits a converted ADU and a new detached ADU together, so ask the City before planning both.
El Monte Municipal Code 17.110.030, Table 17.110-1| Type | Est. all-in cost | Est. rent |
|---|---|---|
| Garage conversion | $220-$371 per sq ft of garage (about $88,000-$149,000 for a 400 sq ft garage) | $1,400-$2,075/mo |
Estimates for a first conversation, not bids or appraisals. Source: LotUpside price book em-2026-10. Provisional estimate: build costs are Los Angeles builder price lists and rents are scaled from HUD's El Monte rent benchmarks; neither has been checked against an El Monte builder's quote or listing. They are not quotes, bids or appraisals.
Ask the City of El Monte Building & Safety Division before you rely on these.
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El Monte Municipal Code 17.110.030(G) excepts an ADU converted from an existing legal structure from the new detached ADU's 4 ft side and rear setback. Government Code 66314(d)(7) likewise requires no new setback for an existing accessory structure converted to an ADU.
No. El Monte Municipal Code 17.110.030(H)(3) does not require replacement when a garage or carport is removed for an ADU. Section (H)(4)(b) also exempts an ADU within the home or an accessory building from ADU parking.
The City's Table 17.110-1 lists one ADU plus one junior ADU for a single-family lot, while Government Code 66323(a) allows the converted and new detached ADU paths in combination. The free lot check follows the City limit, so ask Building & Safety before planning two ADUs.
Neither. It is a screening from public records, not professional advice, and not a survey, soils report, appraisal, loan offer or permit; every number is an estimate. A licensed designer confirms the final plan, and your city or county gives final approval.