ADU Regulations in Lakewood, Washington
In Pierce County south of Tacoma, Lakewood follows Washington's HB 1337 statewide ADU rules. The city's location near Joint Base Lewis-McChord creates strong rental demand for accessory units.
Below is a summary of the key zoning rules applicable to Accessory Dwelling Units in Lakewood as of 2026. Regulations are governed by Washington's HB 1337 (2023) which limits local ADU restrictions statewide.
| Regulation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 1,000 sq ft |
| Property Setbacks | 5 ft rear, 5 ft side |
| Extra Parking Required | Not required (near transit) |
| Owner Occupancy | Not required |
Additional Local Requirements for Lakewood
- ADU by right in residential zones
- Minimum 200 sq ft
- WA HB 1337 limits local restrictions
📥 Download the Complete Lakewood ADU Cheat Sheet
Get the step-by-step permit checklist, official government forms, direct planning department contacts, and estimated fees — all in one printable PDF for Lakewood, Washington.
Download the Complete Lakewood ADU Cheat Sheet — $12Frequently Asked Questions About ADUs in Lakewood
Can I build an ADU in Lakewood?
This Washington city follows HB 1337 which limits local ADU restrictions. Parking may be waived near transit.
How big can my ADU be in Lakewood?
What is the maximum ADU size allowed in Lakewood? ADUs in Lakewood can be up to 1,000 square feet, subject to the property's zoning and lot coverage limits. Always confirm the exact allowed size with the Lakewood planning department before designing your project.
What about setbacks and other requirements in Lakewood?
What are the setback requirements for an ADU in Lakewood? ADUs in Lakewood generally require setbacks of 5 ft rear, 5 ft side. California state law (AB 68) limits local setback requirements to 4 feet for existing structures, but always verify with local zoning.
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