Can I build an ADU on a Multi-Unit Dwelling that is zoned R-1?

[Bianca Ker]

I am looking at purchasing a property in LA County. The property has a main house built in 1916, and a secondary dwelling built (legally) in 1936. The property is an SFR R-1 but has 2 detached units, with an attached (to the main house) garage. I'd like to convert the garage and laundry room into a 1 bedroom ADU.

Multi-unit dwellings are allowed to add an ADU in LA now, without owner occupancy, but I'm worried the R-1 zoning may limit my ability to add a standard ADU (I don't want a junior ADU as I'd like to move out eventually). The law is a little fuzzy on multi-unit dwellings on R1 zoning.

Anyone dealt with a similar situation and had it approved? 

[Nabil Suleiman]

@Bianca Ker

It very unlikely that if you have a secondary dwelling unit pre ADU times, that they will allow you to add an ADU, the planner will look at what exists currently and consider your secondary unit an ADU. Zoning has changed a lot since 1916, so once upon a time it may have been zoned multi, but with r1 that will restrict you to one ADU and one JADU. Also, you said LA County, if this is something you have the time for LA County is slow on everything, so maybe 6-10 months for just getting permits approved, let alone getting the inspectors timeframe.