Highland Park - ADU on R1 zone with duplex built in 1924

[Christian Dulu]

Hi everyone,

I just recently purchased a duplex in Highland Park, and will be owner-occupying one of the units. I learned that out back, the previous owner had some sort of unit that was torn down in the last year or so, and a shed erected in its place. However, where the unit used to be, there is a concrete slab, with electric, water and sewage hookups. I also discovered there was a third electric meter which had a 1/2 address attached to it, and confirmed by LADWP. 

I assume that the previous owner had to tear down his unit because it was unpermitted, but it seems like the basic infrastructure is there to support an ADU. However, I'm not sure whether I would be able to legally build an ADU out back, because from what I've read, you can only build an ADU on land that is zoned R1, with a Single Family Home. I assume that the duplex was grandfathered into the current zone, as it was built in 1924.

I feel my situation is some sort of edge case, so I'm wondering if anyone has any insight or tips on whether this is possible, or even somewhere I can start. My sticking point is nowhere in the regulations does it mention anything about building an ADU on an R1-1 zone with an existing duplex. Could my duplex be regarded as a SFH for zoning Any help would be much appreciated!

Christian

[Sebastian Marroquin]

My humble suggestion: 

Do not try to get the info by yourself... why do so if you don't have to. 

Simply call the city (google : building and safety: even if you don't know what dept. to start with ... they will guide you to the 'next dept. that can answer some questions: then ask that dept. (what other dept. do you suggest i talk to next: and ask them to transfer you). 

but since we are here :) 

1. Call building dept. : ask them your questions 

2. Call zoning dept (within building and safety) : they will look up your address and will let you know what you can do and cannot do. Sometimes they won't give you what you need : so ask them for your specific zoning - they will give it to you. 

Then ask them what can I build? they will tell you. 

Then let them know what structures you have and ask them if you can build an ADU or a JR ADU? They will tell you.

Then ask to speak to fire dept. for the same reason: and then to public works: they will tell you. 

sometimes they will say: in theory you could do what you say you want to do, but you need to submit a formal request in planning and building with a drafter and or architect: 

at that point you will have to decide if its cost effective to do so. Let me know: I have some people that can help! 

PM me your address and I can look it up if you like . 

I guess I can look it up with your name... but I'll let you decide if you want to go that route :) 

Also let me know if you need help with the construction side: I have some great people for the full project from A to Z! 

Let me know if you have any questions 

Sebastian