ADU Regulations in Lancaster, California
Los Angeles County · CA · Pop. 165,000
Max ADU Size
1,200
sq ft detached
Rear Setback
4 ft
Permit Timeline
60 days for ministerial review
Build Cost
$120,000 – $250,000
Zoning
Allowed ADU Types
Lancaster is located in the Antelope Valley at the northern edge of Los Angeles County. Rural Residential (RR) and Residential Agricultural (RA) zones are common in outer areas. ADUs are permitted by right in all residential zones. Large lot sizes in many neighborhoods make detached ADUs straightforward to site.
Source: City of Lancaster — Accessory Dwelling Units · Lancaster Municipal Code Title 17 (Zoning), Chapter 17.08
Dimensions
Size & Setback Requirements
Detached
1,200
sq ft max
JADU
500
sq ft max
Attached
50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft
Setbacks
front
Same as primary dwelling
side
4 ft
rear
4 ft
Max height: 16 ft (detached); match primary structure if attached
Lot coverage: Per underlying zone; ADUs are generally exempt from lot coverage calculation per state law
Lancaster's typical lot sizes (7,000–12,000+ sq ft) mean setback compliance is rarely a limiting factor. Detached ADUs in rear yards are common. Existing structures converted to ADU use may maintain existing footprint without new setback compliance.
Permitting
Permit Process
Department
Planning Division
Review Timeline
60 days for ministerial review
Permit Fees
$4,500 – $9,500
Impact Fees
Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft per state law
Required Documents
- ›Site plan (to scale, showing all structures, easements, and setbacks)
- ›Architectural floor plans
- ›Elevation drawings
- ›Title 24 energy compliance report
- ›Structural drawings (new construction)
- ›Grading plan (if applicable)
Lancaster has among the lowest ADU permitting fees in Los Angeles County, reflecting the city's effort to encourage housing production. The Planning Division offers over-the-counter review for straightforward projects.
Visit Planning Division →Infrastructure
Utilities & Requirements
Solar
Required
Parking
Not required
Separate Meter
Optional
Fire Sprinklers
See note
Southern California Edison serves electricity in Lancaster. Antelope Valley's high solar irradiance makes solar panels especially productive — ADU solar systems frequently exceed minimum CEC requirements. Desert climate means HVAC sizing is important; insulation requirements are strict under Title 24.
Financials
ADU Costs in Lancaster
Typical Build Cost
$120,000 – $250,000
Cost per Sq Ft
$175 – $235
Monthly Rental
$1,100 – $1,800/mo/mo
Property Value Added
Adds $90,000 – $180,000 to property value
Available Grants & Programs
- ★CalHFA ADU Grant Program (up to $40,000 for eligible low-income owners)
- ★LA County Community Development Commission programs may apply
Lancaster offers the lowest ADU construction costs in LA County. Proximity to Edwards Air Force Base sustains military and defense contractor rental demand. Palmdale–Lancaster's planned high-speed rail connection may improve long-term rental fundamentals. Garage conversions typically cost $50,000–$100,000.
Use the free ADU Cost Calculator →Free Service
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Lancaster Quick Facts
- Max size1,200 sq ft
- Rear setback4 ft
- Permit timeline60 days for ministerial review
- Build cost$120,000 – $250,000
- Rental income$1,100 – $1,800/mo/mo
- Owner occupancyNot required
Official Source
City of Lancaster — Accessory Dwelling UnitsLancaster Municipal Code Title 17 (Zoning), Chapter 17.08
Last verified: March 14, 2026
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