A. 
Purpose. The specific purpose of this section is to establish regulations for the keeping and maintaining of animals on properties zoned for or developed with residential uses.
B. 
Animals for Personal Use Only.
1. 
All animals maintained on a property zoned for or developed with a residential use shall be for the personal use of the persons residing on the property, and shall not be used for any commercial purpose.
2. 
The sale of an animal, or the offspring of animals, listed on an approved animal permit, shall not be considered a commercial use, provided that the animals are not being maintained for commercial breeding purposes.
C. 
Types and Numbers of Animals.
1. 
The following animals are allowed on any property zoned for or developed with a residential use, regardless of lot size, without restriction to the number of animals, unless otherwise noted in this section:
a. 
Amphibians, limited to: frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts;
b. 
Ten birds per each residential dwelling unit, limited to: doves, pigeons, parrots, cockatoos, and song birds; a maximum of 25 birds may be allowed subject to the approval of an animal permit pursuant to Section 17.02.140;
c. 
A combination of three dogs or cats, and their offspring not exceeding four months of age, for each residential dwelling unit; a maximum of five dogs or cats may be allowed subject to the approval of an animal permit pursuant to Section 17.02.140;
d. 
Fish;
e. 
Reptiles, limited to: turtles, nonvenomous lizards, and nonvenomous snakes; and
f. 
A maximum of 10 small mammals per each residential dwelling unit, limited to: rabbits, mice, rats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, and chinchillas.
2. 
The permitted type or number of animals listed in this subsection may be changed or increased subject to the approval of an animal permit pursuant to Section 17.02.140.
D. 
Animal Regulations in the R-H Zone.
1. 
The following regulations apply to the keeping and maintenance of animals for all properties located in the R-H zone:
a. 
A minimum lot size of 9,000 square feet is required for the keeping and maintenance of any animal listed in subsection (D)(2) of this section;
b. 
In addition to animals permitted pursuant to subsection C of this section, a maximum of one animal unit, as defined in subsection (D)(2) of this section, is allowed for each 3,000 square feet of gross lot area;
c. 
An animal enclosure, as defined in Section 17.01.060, shall be provided for each animal unit and shall not have a dimension less than 12 feet (e.g. minimum 12 foot by 12 foot enclosure);
d. 
An animal enclosure for all animals listed under subsection (D)(2) of this section shall not be located less than 35 feet from any portion of a residential dwelling unit;
e. 
An animal yard area, as defined in Section 17.01.060, shall be provided for each animal unit and shall not be less than 500 square feet in area nor shall it have a dimension less than 12 feet (e.g. minimum 12 foot by 42 foot area). The animal yard area need not exceed 2,000 square feet of open space area on any lot; and
f. 
An animal permit, subject to Section 17.02.140, must be approved and maintained in good standing for any animal listed in subsection (D)(2) of this section.
2. 
Animal units shall be defined as one of the following:
a. 
One horse or other equine, including miniature horses, ponies, donkeys, or mules, and their offspring not exceeding 12 months of age; or
b. 
One bovine and their offspring not exceeding 12 months of age; or
c. 
One pig or miniature pig and their offspring, not exceeding three months of age; or
d. 
Two goats, sheep, llamas, or alpacas and their offspring not exceeding six months of age; or
e. 
Two ostrich or emu and their offspring not exceeding 12 months of age; or
f. 
Five turkeys, grouse, chickens (excluding roosters), quails, guineafowl, peafowl, pheasants, ducks, geese, or swans, and their offspring not exceeding three months of age.
E. 
Prohibited Animals.
1. 
The following animals are expressly prohibited on any property zoned for or developed with a residential use:
a. 
Wild and dangerous animals, including but not limited to: an elephant, bear, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, lion, tiger, leopard, wolf, monkey, ape, chimpanzee, bobcat, lynx, wild cat, puma, and cheetah; and
b. 
Poisonous reptiles; and
c. 
Roosters; and
d. 
Bees.
2. 
This subsection does not apply to the transportation of any such animal through the City, provided that adequate and secure safeguards are taken to prevent the escape thereof and to protect the public nor shall this section apply to any circus, show or temporary event involving the display of such animals while the show is legally located and permitted within the City.
(Prior code § 27-22.12; Ord. 08-1603 § 7; Ord. 14-1654 §§ 6, 7; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)
A. 
Height. Accessory buildings and structures located in any residential zone shall not exceed one story and 16 feet in height.
B. 
Floor Area. The total area for enclosed accessory buildings and structures shall not exceed 800 square feet per residential property. If there is more than one detached single-family dwelling on a property, the total area for accessory buildings shall not exceed 600 square feet per dwelling.
C. 
Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The roofed area shall be included in the maximum lot coverage and the square footage shall be included in the maximum floor area of the accessory building. In addition, the lot coverage and square footage shall be included in the maximum lot coverage and FAR of the underlying zoning district.
D. 
Location. Accessory buildings and structures located in any residential zone shall not be located at a distance less than 50% of the depth of the lot from the front lot line, or 50 feet, whichever is less. In addition, it shall not be located within a front yard or street side yard setback of the underlying zoning district.
E. 
Setbacks. Accessory buildings and structures located in any residential zone shall have a minimum interior side and rear yard setback of four feet. On a corner lot, the setbacks shall meet the minimum required of the underlying zoning district.
F. 
Design. The exterior design shall have the same architectural style as the primary dwelling or multiple-family structure(s). In addition, it shall use the same materials, colors, exterior finishes, roof form and windows/doors. Accessory buildings and structures shall comply with the adopted Objective Design Standards of this title. This shall not apply to structures for animal enclosures and related activities, greenhouses or conservatories.
G. 
Bathrooms and Other Plumbing. Plumbing for bathrooms, washer hookups and other plumbing are permitted as part of an accessory building for residential uses. For bathrooms with showers or bathtubs, a covenant shall be signed and recorded against the property by the property owner stating that the structure will not be converted to an accessory dwelling unit or urban dwelling without obtaining necessary permits from the City and paying any required fees.
H. 
See Article IV R-H zone of this title for additional standards and requirements for accessory buildings.
(Ord. 25-1762, 12/2/2025)
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish regulations governing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling Units (JADUs) in accordance with California Government Code Section 66310 through 66342, et seq., as amended from time to time, and other applicable state laws. This section is not intended to conflict with State law and shall be interpreted to be compatible with state enactments. Facilitating the development of ADUs and JADUs will increase the availability of affordable housing to suit the variety of lifestyles and needs of the community, while mitigating impacts on traffic, utilities, and public health and safety and preserving the character of residential neighborhoods.
B. 
Definitions. Words and terms as used in ADU and JADU regulations of this section are defined as follows:
"Accessory Building" or "Accessory Structure"
means a detached structure that is accessory and incidental to a dwelling located on the same lot.
"Accessory Dwelling Unit" or "ADU"
means an attached or detached residential unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residential unit. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation and be located on the same parcel that the primary residential unit is or will be situated. An accessory dwelling unit can also be an efficiency unit, as defined in Cal. Health & Safety Code § 17958.1 or a manufactured home, as defined in Cal. Health & Safety Code § 18007.
"Attached"
means the ADU or Junior ADU shares a wall with the existing or proposed single dwelling or the multiple-family dwelling, with both sides of the wall being habitable space. ADUs or Junior ADUs shall not be connected to the existing or proposed single-family dwelling or multiple-family structure solely by a patio cover, breezeway or similar roofed area.
"Building Height"
means height is measured at existing legal grade to the peak of the structure.
"Complete Independent Living Facilities"
means permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multiple-family dwelling is or will be situated.
"Detached"
means the ADU is physically separated from the existing or proposed single dwelling or the multiple-family dwelling.
"Efficiency Dwelling Unit"
means a dwelling unit which contains a minimum of 150 square feet in living space, a separate closet, kitchen sink, cooking appliance, refrigerator, and a separate bathroom containing a water closet, lavatory, bathtub, or shower.
"Efficiency Kitchen"
means a kitchen that includes at a minimum:
1. 
Appliances for cooking food and refrigeration, either built-in or countertop.
2. 
A sink for food preparation greater than 12 inches by 12 inches, excluding the sink located in the bathroom.
3. 
A food preparation counter.
4. 
Storage cabinets that are reasonable size in relation to size of JADU.
"Exempt ADUs"
refers to ADUS and JADUS that are created pursuant to Government Code Section 66323 that must be approved ministerially and are not subject to standards set forth in Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342.
"Existing Floor Area"
means a legally permitted building constructed on the site with a final inspection or certificate of occupancy as of the date of application submittal, that conforms to current zoning standards or is legal nonconforming as to current zoning standards.
"High-Quality Transit Corridor (HQTC)"
means a corridor with fixed route bus service with service intervals no longer than 20 minutes during peak commute hours. HQTC definition shall be consistent with definition provided in Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code.
"Human Being"
means in the context of property ownership, an individual that is not a corporation or other legal entity and that is otherwise considered to be a legal "person." A "human being" may be a property owner who owns real property and holds title to that property in their name as: an individual, community property, a member of a joint tenancy, a tenant in common, a trustee or a benefactor of a trust or a partner of a partnership, but not as an officer of a corporation or other such legal entity.
"Ingress and Egress"
means ability to enter and exit a property and not included as part of living area and livable space for the ADU. Additions for ingress and egress shall only be for means of access to the ADU that may be inaccessible otherwise.
"Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit" or "JADU"
means a residential dwelling unit that satisfies all of the following: (1) it is no more than 500 square feet in size; (2) it is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family structure (an enclosed use within the residence, such as an attached garage, is considered to be a part of and contained within the single-family structure); (3) it includes its own separate sanitation facilities or shares sanitation facilities with the existing or proposed single-family structure; (4) if the unit does not include its own separate bathroom, then it contains an interior entrance to the main living area of the existing or proposed single-family structure in addition to an exterior entrance that is separate from the main entrance to the primary dwelling; and (v) it includes an efficiency kitchen. Either the JADU, single-family residence, or ADU if one exists on the property shall be owner-occupied. A JADU is not permitted on property owned by a corporate entity or LLC. A recorded covenant is required for JADUs prior to approval. For the purposes of this definition, enclosed uses are within the residence, with the exception of attached garages, to be a part of the proposed or existing single-family residence and enclosed with solid walls on a minimum of three sides.
"Livable Space"
means a space in a dwelling intended for human habitation, including living, sleeping, eating, cooking, or sanitation. A livable space does not include storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, garages, stairwells, and spaces used for ingress/egress.
"Living Area"
means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit, including basements and attics, but does not include a garage or any accessory structure.
"Major Transit Stop (MTS)"
means a site containing any of the following: (1) an existing rail or bus rapid transit station, (2) a ferry terminal served by either a bus or rail transit service or (3) the intersection of two or more major bus routes with a frequency of service interval of 20 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods. Definition of MTS shall be consistent with definition provided in Section 21155 of the California Public Resources Code.
"Multiple-Family Dwelling" or "Multifamily Dwelling"
for the purpose of this section, means two or more attached dwelling units. Multiple detached single-family dwelling units on the same lot are not considered multifamily dwellings. A multiple-family dwelling may also be referred to as a "primary dwelling."
"Nonconforming Zoning Condition"
means an approved or permitted physical improvement on a property that does not conform with current zoning standards.
"Objective Standards"
means standards that involve no personal or subjective judgment by a public official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the development applicant or proponent and the public official prior to submittal.
"Passageway"
means a pathway that is unobstructed, clear to the sky, and extends from a street to one entrance of the accessory dwelling unit.
"Primary Legal Residence"
means the primary domicile and permanent home of the property owner as a legal resident of the State of California and as determined by the State of California for the purposes of taxation. Proof of such residency shall be demonstrated by the property owner presenting to the City a current unexpired valid copy of one of the following showing the address of the subject property as their primary legal residence: a California driver's license, a California Real ID, or other State of California identification card and/or a Federal Government issued United States passport or Military ID.
"Property Owner"
means all persons owning a piece of real property but may be specifically limited for some regulations to be only an individual "human being" and it shall include their heirs, successors, and assigns.
"Proposed Dwelling"
means a single or multiple-family dwelling that is the subject of a permit application and that meets the requirements for permitting.
"Public Transit"
means a location, including, but not limited to, a bus stop or train station, where the public may access buses, trains, subways, and other forms of transportation that charge set fares, run on fixed routes, and are available to the public.
"Tandem Parking"
means that two or more automobiles are parked on a driveway or in any other location on a lot, lined up behind one another.
C. 
ADU Review.
1. 
The City shall ministerially review applications for any proposed ADUs and/or JADUs, in conformance with this Code and Sections 66310 to 66342 of the California State Government Code, as currently adopted and as subsequently amended from time to time, in the future.
2. 
The ADU and/or JADU application review fee is determined by City Council by resolution in the adopted fee schedule and is subject to annual cost of living increases.
3. 
The overall review time between the acceptance of the ADU and/or JADU application as complete with all required materials, full payment of applicable fees shall not exceed 60 business days. If the City has not approved or denied the completed application within 60 business days, the application shall be deemed approved. However, failure by the property owner and/or applicant to provide in a timely and correct manner any requested materials, documents, calculations, corrected plans and/or payment of fees shall be grounds for denial of the proposed project and termination of the 60 business day review timeline, as determined appropriate by the Director of Community Development.
a. 
Defect Notification. In the instances when plans have been accepted for review are subsequently denied, the 60 business day limit will be terminated, and the plans shall be returned by the City to the property owner or designated representative accompanied with a full set of written comments from the City listing the items that are defective or deficient and a description of how the application can be remedied. Once the plans are resubmitted and are successfully accepted as complete, then a new 60 business day processing timeline shall be initiated.
b. 
Good Faith Processing. The property owner shall act in good faith and respond in a timely manner when corrections are requested. If it is determined that it will take more than five business days to respond, then the property owner should file an extension of time to continue the processing timeline beyond the 60 business day limit. Failure by the property owner to respond in a reasonable and timely manner by submitting corrected plans or by requesting a time extension shall be grounds for denial of the project, as determined appropriate by the Director of Community Development before the lapse of the 60 business day review period.
4. 
Following a denial, a subsequent application resets the 60 business day period.
5. 
When an application to create an ADU or JADU is submitted with an application to create a new single-family or multifamily dwelling on the lot, the City may delay acting on the application for the ADU or JADU until the City acts on the permit application to create the new single-family or multifamily dwelling, but the application to create the ADU or JADU will still be considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing.
a. 
Prior to final inspection of an ADU, the hosting primary dwelling unit shall be completed with a successful final inspection allowing occupancy that is completed prior to, or concurrently with, a successful final inspection of the ADU, allowing ADU occupancy.
6. 
A demolition permit for a detached garage that is to be replaced with an ADU is reviewed with the application for the ADU and issued concurrently.
7. 
The ADU and/or JADU shall be limited to the floor area approved at the time of building permit issuance. Any owner wishing to incorporate the floor area of an ADU and/or JADU from conversion of existing space back into the primary dwelling unit must request termination of the ADU/JADU use under this section, satisfying all zoning and development standards of the underlying zone.
D. 
Limitations to Develop, Sell, Convey or Rent an ADU.
1. 
An accessory dwelling unit shall not be permitted in combination with any of the following developments:
a. 
ADU constructed per subsection (Y) (Exempt Units).
b. 
Housing development subject to Section 65852.21 of the Government Code.
c. 
Urban lot split subject to Government Code Section 66411.7.
2. 
Rental Term. The rental of ADUs or JADUs shall be for a duration longer than 30 consecutive days. Short-term rentals shall be prohibited.
3. 
No Separate Conveyance. Except as otherwise provided in the Government Code Section 66341, an ADU may be rented, but no ADU or JADU may be sold or otherwise conveyed separately from the lot and the primary dwelling (in the case of a single-family lot) or from the lot and all of the dwellings (in the case of a multifamily lot).
E. 
Zoning.
1. 
An ADU or JADU, notwithstanding subsection (Y) (Exempt Units), may be created on a lot that is zoned to allow single-family dwelling residential use or multifamily dwelling residential use.
2. 
An ADU or JADU subject to subsection (Y) (Exempt Units) may be created on a lot in a residential (R-Zones) or mixed-use zone.
3. 
No ADU or JADU shall be created on a lot that is in the Commercial or Manufacturing Zones.
F. 
Number of ADU and JADU Units.
1. 
For lots with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling:
a. 
One new construction ADU, detached or attached, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (G) to (X). The ADU may be developed in conjunction with a JADU; or
b. 
Exempt ADU which includes the following:
i. 
One detached, new construction ADU, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(2)(a). The Exempt ADU may be developed in conjunction with a JADU.
ii. 
One ADU and one JADU created within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or accessory building, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(2)(b).
c. 
A lot where only one residential dwelling unit exists may either have an ADU or an accessory living quarter, but not both. For the purposes of this section, other accessory buildings which are defined as "R" Occupancy per Chapter 3 of the California Building Code such as, a cabana, pool house, recreation room, workshop, studio, rumpus room and similar shall be considered accessory living quarters. An accessory living quarter may be converted to an ADU. Nothing herein shall prohibit the creation of a JADU on such a lot that contains an accessory living quarter.
2. 
For lots with two existing or proposed detached single-family dwellings:
a. 
Exempt ADU which includes the following:
i. 
One detached, new construction ADU, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(2)(a).
ii. 
One ADU created within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or accessory building, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(2)(b).
b. 
No JADU shall be permitted within lots with two detached single-family dwellings.
3. 
For lots with an existing or proposed multiple-family dwelling:
a. 
Exempt ADUs which includes the following:
i. 
Multifamily converted ADUs, complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(3)(a).
ii. 
At least one ADU and up to 25% of the existing multifamily dwelling units may be created within the portions that are not used as livable space.
iii. 
Fractions shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.
4. 
Multifamily detached ADUs on lots with existing multifamily dwelling(s), complying with the development standards set forth in subsections (Y)(3)(b).
a. 
A maximum of eight detached ADUs are allowed, not to exceed the number of existing units on the lot.
5. 
Multifamily detached ADUs on lots with proposed multifamily dwelling(s), complying with the development standards set forth in subsection (Y)(3)(c).
a. 
A maximum of two detached ADUs are allowed.
6. 
No junior ADU shall be permitted in lots with an existing or proposed multiple-family dwelling.
G. 
Configuration and Location.
1. 
An ADU may be:
a. 
Attached ADUs - Attached to, or located within, the proposed or existing primary dwelling, including attached garages, storage areas or similar uses, and accessory structures.
b. 
Detached ADUs - Detached from the proposed or existing primary dwelling and located on the same lot as the proposed or existing primary dwelling.
c. 
Located within a proposed or existing primary dwelling or multiple-family dwelling or detached from the proposed or existing primary dwelling or multiple-family dwelling.
2. 
A JADU shall be attached to, or located within, the existing or proposed primary dwelling.
3. 
The following ADU configurations shall be prohibited:
a. 
ADUs shall not be attached to any existing detached accessory structure that do not meet current setback requirements for ADUs, including required garages for the main dwelling.
b. 
Floor area of the ADU shall not be below the finished grade.
c. 
For lots with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling, detached ADUs shall not exceed one story in height and/or be constructed over accessory structure(s).
d. 
ADUs located within the R-H zone shall be subject to the Norwalk Municipal Code Section 17.05.350(E).
4. 
ADU location shall be in substantial conformance with the conditions of approval for any existing discretionary or ministerial approvals on file for the subject property. Substantial changes that conflict with any conditions of approval will require an amendment or termination of the said entitlement or permit.
a. 
Multifamily dwelling units proposing for conversions of project amenities including, but not limited to, open space, laundry rooms, recreation rooms, etc. are strongly discouraged. Landlord shall make a good faith effort to inform tenants of their intent to convert a portion of the project's amenities into units to the satisfaction of the Director of Community Development.
5. 
ADU location shall comply with vision clearance dedications required per Section 17.03.250 (Corner Cut-Off Area—Vision Clearance Dedication).
6. 
An existing residential unit may be converted to an ADU, but not as a JADU, at the time that a new primary dwelling is proposed for construction, provided the existing residential unit conforms to all the standards under this section.
H. 
Unit Size.
1. 
Minimum Unit Size. An ADU shall be no less than 150 square feet in size.
2. 
Attached ADU (new). The maximum unit size for an attached ADU shall not exceed 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling. In addition, the attached ADU shall not exceed 850 square feet for a studio or one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for more than one bedroom.
3. 
Detached ADU (new). The maximum unit size for a detached ADU shall not exceed 850 square feet for a studio or one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for more than one bedroom.
4. 
Junior ADU. The maximum square footage for a JADU shall be 500 square feet.
5. 
Conversions of Existing Structure. There shall be no size limit for conversions of existing permitted structures.
I. 
Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratio (FAR).
1. 
Lot Coverage. The maximum lot coverage by all structures on lots developed with ADUs shall not exceed underlying zoning requirements.
2. 
Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The maximum FAR on lots developed with ADUs shall not exceed underlying zoning requirements.
J. 
Setbacks and Building Separation.
1. 
The minimum interior side yard and rear yard setback for an attached or detached ADU shall be four feet, unless the ADU is:
a. 
Converted from an existing legal or legal-nonconforming structure; or
b. 
A new structure created in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing legal or legal nonconforming structure.
2. 
For ADUs over one-story in height, the second story shall be setback an additional five feet from the first floor along the front, interior side, and street side setbacks.
3. 
The minimum front yard and street side yard setback shall comply with the underlying zone.
4. 
A minimum building separation of five feet, measured from eave to eave, shall be maintained between the accessory dwelling unit and any structures on site.
K. 
Building Height.
1. 
Detached ADU. A maximum height of 16 feet in all zoning districts. Additional height may be permitted as follows:
a. 
A maximum height of 18 feet when the lot is a half-mile walking distance from a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor.
i. 
An additional two feet may be permitted to accommodate roof pitch that aligns with the primary dwelling for a maximum of 20 feet.
b. 
A maximum height of 18 feet on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily that is more than one story in height.
2. 
Attached ADU. A maximum height of 25 feet or the height limitation of the underlying zone, whichever is lower.
3. 
Non-exempt detached ADUs shall not exceed one-story in height.
4. 
New construction ADU shall not be permitted above a detached garage or carport on lots with a single-family dwelling.
5. 
Plate height shall be limited to eight feet per story.
L. 
Off-Street Parking Requirements.
1. 
No parking shall be required for a JADU.
2. 
One off-street parking space is required for each ADU. Such parking may be provided as tandem parking, as defined in this section, on a driveway.
3. 
When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU, replacement of the lost off-street covered parking shall not be required to be replaced.
4. 
Notwithstanding this subsection, off-street parking requirements shall not apply to ADUs in any of the following circumstances:
a. 
The ADU is located within one-half (1/2) mile walking distance of public transit, as defined in this section.
b. 
The ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
c. 
The ADU is located within the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.
d. 
When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
e. 
When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the ADU.
f. 
When a permit application for an ADU is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family dwelling or a new multifamily dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU satisfies any other criteria listed in (a) through (d) above.
M. 
Driveways.
1. 
An ADU shall share the driveway with the existing or proposed primary dwelling unit. A second driveway shall not be permitted, unless the proposed second driveway is accessed from an alley. If the property has two existing driveways, the second driveway may remain if lawfully established.
N. 
Density.
1. 
An ADU or JADU that conforms to the requirements of this section shall not be considered to exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which it is located. It shall be deemed to be an accessory residential use that is consistent with the existing General Plan and zoning designation for the lot.
O. 
Design.
1. 
The materials and colors of the exterior, including, but not limited to, walls, roof, and windows and doors, shall match the appearance and architectural design of those of the primary dwelling.
2. 
Stairwells leading to ADUs shall be enclosed.
3. 
The roof pitch must match that of the dominant roof pitch of the primary dwelling. The dominant roof pitch is the pitch shared by the largest portion of the roof.
4. 
When the roof pitch of the existing primary dwelling or multifamily dwelling had a pitch greater than 4:12, the roof pitch of the ADU is not required to match, so long as the ADU complies with the height requirements set forth in subsection (K).
5. 
For attached ADUs and JADUs, the entrance shall be located on the side or rear of the primary dwelling. The entrance is prohibited from being located on the front of the primary dwelling unit, facing the public right-of-way. In addition, there shall be no exterior staircase leading to or from an attached ADU or JADU.
6. 
For detached ADUs, the entrance shall not face or be visible from the public right-of-way.
7. 
For ADUs and JADUs converted from a garage or other existing accessory buildings, the garage door shall be removed and replaced with building doors, windows, and/or other design features. A three foot wide planter with drought-tolerant plants shall be installed between the ADU or JADU and any driveway.
8. 
ADUs shall not be designed with upper story balconies or elevated decks.
9. 
Exterior lighting shall be shielded or directed downward to prevent off-site illumination onto adjacent property.
10. 
ADUs shall have an eave projection of at least one foot on all sides of the building(s).
11. 
Windows and doors shall not have direct line of sight to the adjacent residential property. Fencing, landscaping, or privacy glass may be used to provide screening to prevent direct line of sight. This requirement may be exempt for conversions of legally permitted structures that do not include installation of new exterior windows facing an adjacent property line or when only clerestory windows are used and do not provide views into neighboring lots.
12. 
New second-story windows shall be prohibited along the interior side and rear lot lines for all ADUs and JADUs when the proposed setback is less than four feet, unless required by the Building Code. Required windows shall be designed to preserve privacy with opaque or clerestory windows. If the side or rear lot lines abut an alley with a minimum width of 20 feet, second story windows may be allowed on the facade facing the alley.
13. 
If it is deemed infeasible to comply with all of the requirements outlined in subsections (O)(1) through (12) above, the Community Development Director may grant a waiver to one or more requirements.
P. 
Landscaping and Open Space Requirements.
1. 
All required yards abutting streets shall be completely landscaped with live landscaping, exclusive of driveways, porches, patios, and walkways.
2. 
The paved area of the required front yard and required street side yard, including driveways and walkways, porches, and patios, shall not exceed 50% and 500 square feet, except as allowed by the Director of Community Development for properties with a substandard width or unique shape, orientation or configuration.
3. 
The open space requirements shall comply with the underlying zone.
Q. 
Owner Occupancy.
1. 
All Junior ADUs are subject to an owner-occupancy requirement. A human being with legal or equitable title to the property must reside on the property as the person's legal domicile and principal residence, in either the single-family dwelling unit, the JADU, or an ADU if one exists on the property. A covenant shall be signed and recorded against the property by the property owner stating that the primary dwelling, JADU, or an ADU if one exists on the property will be occupied by the property owner.
a. 
Owner occupancy shall not be required if the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
b. 
The covenant runs with the land and may be enforced against future property owners.
c. 
The covenant may be removed if the owner eliminates the JADU and reverts the JADU to the original permitted layout and use within the single-family dwelling. To remove the covenant, an owner may make a written request to the Director of Community Development, providing evidence that the JADU has in fact been eliminated. The Director may then determine whether the evidence supports the claim that the unit has been eliminated. Appeal may be taken from the Director's determination consistent with other provisions of this Title. If the JADU is not entirely physically removed but is only eliminated by virtue of having a necessary component of the JADU removed, the remaining structure and improvements shall otherwise comply with applicable provisions of this title.
R. 
Building, Fire, and Other Codes.
1. 
All ADUs shall comply with all provisions of the Norwalk Municipal Code pertaining to the adequacy of water, sewer, electrical, drainage, and fire and emergency services to the property on which the ADU will be located as well as all applicable codes pertaining to building, fire, health, and/or safety.
2. 
Construction of an ADU does not constitute a Group R occupancy change under the local building code, as described in the California Building Code (Sec. 310), unless the City Building and Safety Manager makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety. Nothing in subsection (R)(2) prevents the City from changing the occupancy code of a space that was unhabitable space or that was only permitted for nonresidential use and was subsequently converted for residential use in accordance with this section.
S. 
Sprinklers.
1. 
ADUS shall not be required to install fire sprinklers if they are not required for the existing primary dwelling. However, if a primary dwelling currently does not have fire sprinklers, and an attached ADU is proposed which would trigger fire sprinkler requirements due to the increase in livable space, that requirement shall not be imposed upon the primary dwelling unit.
T. 
Solar Panel Systems.
1. 
Newly constructed ADUs are subject to the California Energy Code requirement to provide solar panel systems if the unit(s) is a newly constructed, detached ADU. The solar panel system can be installed on the ADU or on the primary dwelling unit.
U. 
Laundry.
1. 
All ADUs shall have laundry connections for a washer and dryer within the interior space of the proposed dwelling unit.
V. 
Building and Zoning Enforcement.
1. 
The City shall not deny an ADU or JADU application solely due to nonconforming zoning conditions, building code violations, or unpermitted structures on the lot that do not present a threat to the public health and safety and that is not affected by the construction of the ADU or JADU. However, any approvals granted under this section shall not constitute authorization for continuation of the violation, or waiver by estoppel against any future enforcement action.
2. 
Unpermitted ADUs constructed before January 1, 2020:
a. 
The City may not deny a permit to legalize an existing but unpermitted ADU that was constructed if denial is based on either of the following grounds:
i. 
The ADU violates applicable building standards; or
ii. 
The ADU does not comply with the California Government Code §§ 66310 through 66342 or Norwalk Municipal Code Section 17.04.210.
b. 
Exceptions:
i. 
Notwithstanding subsection (T)(2)(a), above, the City may deny a permit to legalize an existing, but unpermitted ADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, if the City makes a finding that correction the violation is necessary to protect the health and safety of the public or occupants of the structure, or if the building is deemed substandard pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
W. 
Fees/Utility Connections.
1. 
The property owner shall pay all applicable impact fees related to an ADU 750 square feet or larger, including, but not limited to, parks, traffic, water and sewer impact fees. Such fees shall be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit.
2. 
No new or separate utility connection or related fees or capacity charges shall be required for an ADU described in subsection (Y)(2)(b) below, unless such ADU was constructed with a new single-family home.
3. 
For ADUs not described in subsection (Y)(2)(b) below, a new or separate utility connection for the following, including, but not limited to, water, electric, gas, sewer, and trash may be required subject to the Principal City Engineer, Director of Community Development, and Building and Safety Manager's determination. Related fees or capacity charges shall be proportionate to the burden of the proposed ADU based upon either its square feet or number of its drainage fixture unit ("DFU") values, upon the water or sewage system. Such fees or charges shall not exceed the reasonable cost of providing service.
X. 
Other Development Standards.
1. 
For all other development standards not specified in this section, the development standards of the underlying zoning district shall apply.
Y. 
Exempt Units.
1. 
Notwithstanding any development standards or other limitations set forth in subsections (A) through (U), the City shall ministerially approve an application for a building permit within a residential or mixed-use zoning district to create any of the following units:
2. 
For lots with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling:
a. 
New construction. One detached ADU per lot, subject to all the following:
i. 
Area. The maximum unit size for the ADU shall be 800 square feet.
ii. 
Setbacks. The minimum interior side yard and rear yard setbacks shall be four feet.
iii. 
Height. The maximum height limitation is subject to development standards set forth in subsection (K) (Building Height).
b. 
Created within an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or accessory building. One JADU and one attached ADU or detached ADU per lot, subject to all of the following:
i. 
Created entirely within the square footage of the existing or proposed single-family dwelling or accessory structure.
ii. 
An additional 150 square-foot expansion may be permitted for the ADU strictly to accommodate ingress and egress. Additions for ingress and egress shall only be for means of access to the ADU that may be inaccessible otherwise (e.g. the construction of a staircase to reach a second story ADU).
iii. 
The interior side and rear yard setbacks shall be sufficient for fire and safety.
iv. 
JADU. The JADU shall be entirely within the square footage of an existing or proposed primary dwelling and not within an accessory structure, with the exception of an attached garage.
v. 
Area. The maximum square footage for an attached ADU shall not exceed 800 square feet or 50% of the existing or proposed primary dwelling, whichever is less.
vi. 
Access. The attached ADU or Junior ADU shall have exterior access that is independent of that for the single-family dwelling.
3. 
For lots with an existing or proposed multiple-family dwelling:
a. 
Multifamily Converted ADUs:
i. 
Number. At least one ADU or up to 25% of the existing multifamily dwelling units may be created within the portions that are not used as livable space.
ii. 
Fractions shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.
iii. 
For mixed-use projects, areas designated for commercial uses including off-street parking and storage shall not be converted to ADUs.
iv. 
Location. ADUs may be created within the portions of existing multifamily structures that are not used as livable space. Examples of structures that are not used as livable space include, but are not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages.
b. 
Multifamily detached ADUs on lots with existing multifamily dwelling(s) subject to all of the following:
i. 
Number. A maximum of eight detached ADUs are allowed, not to exceed the number of existing units on the lot.
ii. 
Setbacks. The minimum interior side yard and rear yard setbacks shall be four feet.
iii. 
Height. The maximum height limitation is subject to development standards set forth in subsection (K) (Building Height).
iv. 
Area. The maximum square footage for each ADU shall be 800 square feet.
c. 
Multifamily detached ADUS on lots with proposed multifamily dwelling(s) subject to all of the following:
i. 
Number. A maximum of two detached ADUs are allowed.
ii. 
Setbacks. The minimum interior side yard and rear yard setbacks shall be four feet.
iii. 
Height. The maximum height limitation is subject to development standards set forth in subsection (K) (Building Height).
iv. 
Area. The maximum square footage for each ADU shall be 800 square feet.
d. 
No junior ADU shall be permitted in lots with an existing or proposed multiple-family dwelling.
e. 
Concessions. Multifamily dwelling units proposing for conversions of project amenities including, but not limited to, open space, laundry rooms, recreation rooms, and parking spaces are strongly discouraged. At the discretion and approval of the Director of Community Development, additional height may be allowed if the applicant demonstrates good faith effort in preserving such amenities.
(Prior code § 27-22.23; Ord. 1540 § 4, 2003; Ord. 18-1701 § 6; Ord. 21-1722 § 2; Ord. 25-1762, 12/2/2025)
A. 
Purpose and Intent. Residential condominiums and stock cooperatives. differ from other residential development forms in many ways, including the ownership of individual units, jointly held and maintained common areas and participation in an Association responsible to manage and operate the units. Condominium developments are a mix of individual and common ownership which differs from conventional and familiar patterns of housing in the City of Norwalk while possessing a high potential for mismanagement, especially if development standards are inadequate. This unique status indicates that it is necessary to treat such projects differently from apartments and like structures.
In order to achieve this purpose, it is necessary to provide additional review, as outlined herein, including imposition of different development standards and other reasonable conditions to serve and protect the public health, safety and general welfare.
B. 
General Procedures. The Planning Commission and Planning Division shall prescribe the form of application, documents to be submitted, and the type of information to be provided by the applicant:
1. 
The following information, and any other data found to be reasonably required, shall be filed with the Planning Division prior to acceptance of an application for a tentative tract map for a condominium, condominium conversion or stock cooperative:
a. 
For proposed construction, detailed and fully dimensioned site plans, floor plans, and exterior building elevations. (Prior to issuance of a building permit, landscape plans shall be submitted to the Planning Division showing location, size, type and number of plant materials and the irrigation system.)
b. 
In the case of a conversion, any available "as-built" structural plans and detailed drawings of existing buildings shall be submitted showing the method of compliance with requirements related to floor/ceiling and wall construction and other applicable electrical, plumbing and mechanical requirements of the building and safety code. Where such plans are not available, the applicant shall provide representative building plans in accordance with the Building and Safety Division requirements.
c. 
The proposed documents, including any covenants, conditions and restrictions which have been prepared, that would apply to the conveyance of units, the assignment of parking, and the management of common areas. At the discretion of the Planning Division, Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions may be submitted after approval of the tentative tract map, but prior to recordation of the final tract map.
d. 
A radius map and list of property owners within 300 feet of the subject property.
2. 
The Director shall obtain a report regarding existing structures from the Building and Safety Division, Fire Department and other affected public agencies concerning compliance with their respective Code requirements and the overall condition of the buildings and property, including the age, condition and degree of renovation necessary.
3. 
In the case of a condominium conversion or stock cooperative, notices relative to any public hearing before the Planning Commission and the City Council shall be sent to all current tenants at least 10 days prior to any such hearing.
C. 
Development Standards and Review Criteria. In a permitted zone, no building shall be constructed as a condominium, converted to a condominium or transformed into a stock cooperative except as may be allowed subject to the approval of a tentative tract map and recordation of a final tract map, and subject to the following standards and review criteria:
1. 
Compliance with all regulations set forth in this title in effect at the time of application, including but not limited to required yards, density, open area and parking, unless otherwise provided for in this chapter.
2. 
Compliance with all regulations set forth in the building code in effect at the time of application, including but not limited to energy standards, impact insulation and security requirements, unless otherwise provided for in this chapter.
3. 
Each unit shall have a minimum of 90 cubic feet per covered parking space of lockable, weatherproofed storage area generally located outside of the unit (i.e., within a garage or carport over-the-hood cabinet). Other locations and sizes may be acceptable upon review and approval of the Director and/or Planning Commission.
4. 
Utilities shall be provided in compliance with the following standards:
a. 
Each unit shall have a clearly marked, easily accessible master water shut-off valve.
b. 
Each utility, except water, that is controlled by and consumed within individual units shall be separately metered.
c. 
Each unit shall have its own circuit breaker panel for all electrical circuits and outlets located within the unit or where easily accessible to their own unit.
5. 
All wall and floor/ceiling assemblies between individual units shall be constructed with the following sound attenuation ratings:
a. 
The wall assemblies between individual units shall have a minimum STC rating of 52.
b. 
The floor/ceiling assemblies between stacked units shall have a minimum STC rating of 58.
6. 
All permanent mechanical equipment, including fixed and built-in domestic appliances, shall be shock-mounted if determined to be a source of structural vibration or noise.
7. 
Parking shall comply with the following standards:
a. 
Covered parking shall be provided within a garage.
b. 
The assignment of parking spaces shall be described within the covenants, conditions and restrictions document.
c. 
For any conversion to condominium or stock cooperative, parking shall conform to Section 17.03.040(E).
8. 
Laundry facilities shall be provided either within the units or in a laundry room with common facilities.
9. 
Compliance with the standards, criteria, and applicable regulations set forth in this subsection shall be determined by the Planning Division and Building and Safety Division by a review of the plans and drawings required by subsection B of this section, and, where appropriate, by inspection of the subject site. Where detailed plans and drawings are not available for existing buildings, the Building and Safety Division shall inspect the subject site to determine required compliance.
D. 
Final Map and/or Certificate of Occupancy. A final tract map and, if necessary, a certificate of occupancy, shall not be issued until and unless all requirements set forth in this section and established in conjunction with the approval of the tentative tract map are satisfactorily complied with.
(Prior code §§ 27-26.1—27-26.4; Ord. 06-1571 § 12; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)
An outdoor recreational ramp, as defined in Section 17.01.060, shall be allowed in the R-1, R-2, R-3, or R-H zone only if it complies with the following conditions and requirements:
A. 
A maximum of one outdoor recreational ramp is allowed on a property, provided that the property is developed with only one single-family residence;
B. 
The outdoor recreational ramp shall only consist of a quarter or half pipe, as defined in Section 17.01.060;
C. 
In no case shall any portion of the outdoor recreational ramp exceed 275 square feet;
D. 
In no case shall any portion of the platform exceed four feet in height;
E. 
In no case shall any portion of the outdoor recreational ramp exceed seven feet in height;
F. 
The outdoor recreational ramp is to be located in the rear half of the lot and at least 50 feet from the front property line;
G. 
The outdoor recreational ramp, or any part thereof, must be located at least five feet from any side and/or rear property line;
H. 
The outdoor recreational ramp cannot be located in required parking areas, driveways, and vehicle turnaround areas;
I. 
Metal cannot be used on the top surface of the outdoor recreational ramp; and
J. 
The outdoor recreational ramp shall be intended and used solely for the enjoyment of the occupants of the single-family residence and guests. No commercial or advertised use of the ramp shall be permitted and no donations or contributions shall be solicited or received for use of or attendance at ramp activities.
(Ord. 09-1618 § 2; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)
Editor's Note: Former Section 17.04.235 Density bonus, compiled by Ord. 14-1656 § 1; Ord. 21-1722 § 2 was repealed and replaced by Ord. 24-1755, 12/3/2024 in Art. V.
A. 
Purpose. It is the purpose of this section to establish regulations for the orderly establishment and use of property for the development of single room occupancy (SRO) housing in their permitted zones. A conditional use permit shall be granted, if it is found that the proposed location of such uses will be in harmony with the general purposes and intents of this title and of any general plan, existent or in the process of being prepared, and will not be materially detrimental to the character of the development in the immediate neighborhood.
B. 
SRO development in conjunction with other multifamily development.
1. 
SRO units in conjunction with other multifamily development shall not be comprised of more than 20% of the total housing units proposed.
2. 
In the case of mixed housing types in a development, all developments must comply with provisions found in Chapter 17.05, unless specifically modified by this section.
C. 
SROs may be established in the R-3 zone, and when the property is so used, shall comply with the following development and operational standards.
1. 
Development Standards.
a. 
SROs developments shall comply with all standards of the R-3 zone per Title 17 of the Norwalk Municipal Code, unless modified by this section, and building and safety standards per Title 15 of the Municipal Code.
b. 
Density. SRO developments shall comply with the maximum density in the zone in which they are located.
c. 
Unit Size. Each unit shall have a minimum size of 150 square feet and a maximum of 350 square feet.
d. 
Occupancy. Each unit shall accommodate a maximum of two persons.
e. 
Bathroom. Each unit shall contain, at minimum a separate bathroom with sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower.
f. 
Kitchen. Each unit shall contain, at minimum a kitchen including sink, counter top (minimum 16 inches by 24 inches), a refrigerator and stove/oven unit.
g. 
Closet. Each unit shall have a separate closet of not less than 48 cubic feet in size.
h. 
Laundry Facilities. Each SRO shall provide laundry appliances in individual units or in a separate room or rooms located in close proximity to the units served. A minimum of one washer and one dryer shall be provided for each 10 units or fraction thereof.
i. 
Off-street parking shall be provided pursuant to Chapter 17.03, Article II of this title.
j. 
Bike racks shall be provided at the facility where the SRO is located. Bike racks shall accommodate one bicycle for every three units.
k. 
Exterior lighting shall be provided for the entire outdoor and parking area of the property, at an intensity of between one and two footcandles, so as to provide adequate lighting for the property while not disturbing surrounding residential or commercial areas. Light sources shall contain light shields to prevent the spillage of lighting onto adjacent properties.
l. 
Common Open Space Requirements.
i. 
Developments containing 16 or fewer units shall provide a minimum of 500 square feet of usable open space, with a minimum dimension of 10 feet.
ii. 
Developments containing 17 units or more shall provide a minimum of 500 square feet of useable open space, with an additional 35 square feet required for each additional unit over 16, with a minimum dimension of 10 feet.
2. 
Operational Standards.
a. 
Each facility operator must provide a detailed management plan as part of the conditional use permit application. The plan, at minimum, shall address such items as follows:
i. 
Projected staffing needs;
ii. 
Facility management and operations;
iii. 
Emergency procedures;
iv. 
Security;
v. 
Rental procedures;
vi. 
Proposed rental rates.
b. 
Resident Manager. Each development containing 16 or more units shall have a resident manager available on a 24 hour basis.
c. 
Tenancy. Tenancy of SRO units shall be limited to 30 or more days.
(Ord. 16-1675 § 4; Ord. 21-1722 § 2)