Adding a backyard home can involve months of design decisions before a permit application is even submitted. Torrance’s Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program is intended to reduce some of that early expense and uncertainty.

The city currently features several detached ADU designs that have already been reviewed by the Building and Safety and Planning divisions. Available concepts include:

• A 440-square-foot studio
• A 640-square-foot one-bedroom unit
• A 751-square-foot two-bedroom unit
• A 798-square-foot two-bedroom unit
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The plans include architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components that comply with city design and safety requirements. Torrance describes them as approximately 80% complete for permitting, which can save time compared with designing an ADU entirely from scratch.

“Pre-approved,” however, does not mean a homeowner can begin construction immediately. The property owner must contract with the plan’s designer, obtain permission to use the design, add information specific to the property, and secure a building permit.

Site conditions can also affect what is possible. Lot dimensions, setbacks, utilities, easements, access, drainage, fire requirements, and the location of the existing house must still be evaluated.

The city’s newly posted concepts show how varied a small ADU can be. The 440-square-foot studio includes a kitchen, bathroom, laundry equipment, heat-pump system, solar roof, and battery specifications, while the larger options provide separate bedrooms and additional living space.

For homeowners exploring rental income, multigenerational living, caregiver housing, or a future downsizing option, the pre-approved collection offers a practical place to begin comparing possibilities.

Article Link: Explore Torrance’s pre-approved ADU designs