Affordable entry into a well-maintained OC community with strong neighborhood character, low crime rates and family-friendly atmosphere driving steady rental demand, proximity to major freeways and employment centers, and a straightforward city permitting process suited to the small-city scale.
La Palma is one of Orange County's smallest and most tightly knit communities — just 1.8 square miles with approximately 15,000 residents. Despite its compact size, the city maintains an exceptional quality of life with well-kept neighborhoods, Central Park as the community's green heart, the La Palma Community Center, and a strong volunteer-driven civic culture. The residential character is predominantly single-family homes built in the 1960s and 1970s on lots typically ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 sqft. La Palma's location in northwest Orange County provides convenient access to the 5 and 91 freeways, placing residents within a short commute of Anaheim, Buena Park, and Cerritos employment centers. The city's quiet streets, low crime rates, and community-oriented atmosphere make it a hidden gem for families seeking an affordable OC foothold.
Confirm your property's zoning designation and lot dimensions with the Community Development Department. La Palma's consistent residential grid makes most properties straightforward to evaluate. Check for any easements or utility restrictions.
Create architectural plans including site plan, floor plan, elevations, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. La Palma's 5,000–7,000 sqft lots work well for compact detached ADUs (500–750 sqft) or garage conversions. Include Title 24 energy compliance documentation.
Submit your complete plan set to the Community Development Department. La Palma's smaller staff means you often work directly with senior planners — take advantage of this accessibility to address questions early in the process.
The city reviews plans for compliance with building codes and ADU regulations. State law mandates a 60-day maximum review period for compliant ADU applications.
Once permitted, begin construction with your licensed contractor. Schedule required inspections at each milestone — foundation, framing, rough MEP, insulation, and final.
Request final inspection from the Building Division. Once passed, receive your Certificate of Occupancy. Your ADU is now legal to rent or occupy in La Palma's consistently strong rental market.