ADU

ADU Amnesty Program (Assembly Bill 2533)
If you own an unpermitted accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) in Seal Beach, we have great news for you!

In accordance with AB 2533, a streamlined process is now available to help you legalize your ADU or JADU that was constructed prior to January 1, 2020. This is an opportunity to ensure the dwelling unit is in compliance with the Health & Safety Code, while also enhancing its value. 

Why should you legalize your unit?

  • Reduce unknown risks to occupants - by not having a permit and inspections for the living unit that will provide a level of assurance for life safety, your tenants may be at risk. 
  • Reduce liability - in the event of a property loss or damage due to an event such as a fire or an earthquake, your insurance will not cover damages to unpermitted construction or illegal conversions of space to living units. 
  • Increase in property value - without legalizing the unit, it will not count as part of the improvements when you get an appraisal for refinance or sale of the property. 
  • Ease of mind - without concern for sanctions due to illegal construction activities, legalizing the unit will eliminate worries about liabilities or a code enforcement action against you. 
  • Added legitimacy when finding tenants - prospective tenants' due diligence when researching your rental unit's status with the City can be documented as legally constructed/approved. 

    To guide you through the steps, please reference the following documents:
  • Legalizing Unpermitted ADU
  • Substandard Housing Checklist 
  • Eligibility and Application 
Pre-Approved ADU Plans

 

The Pre-Approved Plan Catalogue aims to encourage the construction of ADUS by reducing pre-construction costs associated with plan designs. The catalogue has ADU plans that have already been reviewed and approved by the City of Seal Beach. These plans are available for local property owners to review. All Pre-Approved Plan options will be made available for review, as they are submitted by design firms and approved.

Please note that these plans options are owned by the listed design firm. If you are interested in purchasing a set of plans, please contact the plan owner directly using the contact information provided. Additional site-specific design work will still be required; in which you will need to work directly with the architect/designer prior to submitting the plans to the City for review and approval. However, these pre-approved plans aim to help a property owner reduce pre-construction costs and improve permit approval efficiency.
The City of Seal Beach invites architects, engineers, and all design professionals to submit Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans for preapproval. Please contact the Planning Division for more information and instructions.

 

Pre-Approved Catalog

No Current Submission Available. Pre-Approved Plans will be provided as they are submitted.

 

ADU Loan Program Information