South Orange County premium location at lower construction costs than coastal neighbors like Laguna Beach and Dana Point, proximity to Providence Saddleback Memorial Medical Center creating steady healthcare worker housing demand, quick access to both Laguna Beach and Irvine employment, and a compact city layout that puts most neighborhoods within minutes of shopping, dining, and freeways.
Laguna Hills is a compact south Orange County city of approximately 31,000 residents that delivers a south county premium location at a more moderate price point than neighboring coastal cities. Nestled between Laguna Beach to the west, Mission Viejo to the east, and Aliso Viejo to the south, the city occupies a strategic position that provides quick access to both the coast and inland employment centers. The Five Points Plaza shopping area at the intersection of El Toro Road and Moulton Parkway serves as the commercial heart of the community, while Saddleback Memorial Medical Center (now Providence) — one of south Orange County's major hospitals — is a significant local employer drawing healthcare workers from across the region. Laguna Hills' residential neighborhoods are primarily composed of 1970s–80s single-family homes in communities like Laguna Hills Estates, Nellie Gail Ranch (partially in the city), and the villages surrounding Moulton Parkway. The I-5 and SR-73 toll road are both accessible within minutes, connecting residents to Irvine's Spectrum district, Laguna Beach, and the broader OC freeway network.
Confirm your property's zoning on the city's GIS map. Most R1 single-family residential zones allow ADUs by right. Laguna Hills shares borders with unincorporated county areas and neighboring cities — verify your parcel is within Laguna Hills city limits to ensure correct permitting jurisdiction.
Create architectural plans including site plan, floor plan, elevations, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Consider the topography of your lot — many Laguna Hills neighborhoods have gentle slopes that may require minor grading. Design to complement the 1970s–80s architectural character common across the city.
Submit your complete plan set to the Community Development Department. Include Title 24 energy compliance documentation and any required soils or drainage reports for sloped lots. Laguna Hills processes ADU applications ministerially — no public hearing required.
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. Laguna Hills' smaller city size often means responsive planning staff and efficient review cycles.
Once permitted, begin construction with your licensed contractor. Schedule required inspections at each milestone — foundation, framing, rough mechanical/electrical/plumbing, insulation, and final. Coordinate with neighbors in close-set neighborhoods to manage construction access and parking.
Request final inspection from the Building Division. Once passed, receive your Certificate of Occupancy. Your ADU is now legal to rent or occupy.