Torrance Remodeling

59.6 percent of Torrance homes were built in the 1950s and 1960s

Census Bureau figures for 2020 to 2024 count 59,284 housing units in Torrance: 19,323 built in the 1950s and 15,996 in the 1960s. The median year built is 1964, and 53.4 percent of units are detached houses, a higher share than in Burbank, Glendale or Santa Monica. Energy and electrical codes have changed many times since these houses were framed, so ask any bidder how the panel, ducts and windows fit into the scope before the walls come open.

Source: Census ACS 2020-2024, Year Structure Built, Torrance

Torrance passed a seismic retrofit ordinance in 2023

The city says it contains hundreds of buildings with known earthquake weaknesses, including wood buildings with soft, weak or open-front ground floors, non-ductile concrete and pre-Northridge steel frames. On March 14, 2023, the City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 3916 to require retrofits, and the city says notification letters to affected properties have not yet gone out. Houses are covered by separate voluntary grants: every Torrance ZIP code is eligible for Earthquake Brace and Bolt grants of up to $3,000.

Source: City of Torrance, Seismic Retrofit Program

The Hillside Overlay protects neighbors' views, light, air and privacy

Torrance adopted its Hillside Overlay in 1977 for hillside and coastal neighborhoods where terrain makes one house's addition another house's lost view. Inside it, a one-story addition under 14 feet or a new window opening needs a Minor Hillside Exemption, which mails notices to nearby owners and gives them 10 business days to comment. Additions over 14 feet, new two-story houses and projects above a 0.50 floor area ratio need a Precise Plan with a silhouette, a survey and a Planning Commission hearing noticed within 500 feet.

Source: City of Torrance, Hillside and Local Coastal Overlay

How much does a remodel cost in Torrance?

Torrance does not publish permit valuations. Regional survey data fills the gap: in Los Angeles and Orange counties, the Census Bureau's 2023 housing survey found a $3,696 median for jobs done by professionals, small repairs included. Metro roofers earned a median of $30.56 an hour in May 2025, above the national $26.65, and the median Torrance home is valued at $1,074,700.

What is the Torrance Hillside Overlay?

A zone adopted in 1977 for hillside and coastal neighborhoods that protects nearby homes' view, light, air and privacy. Inside it, a one-story addition under 14 feet or new windows need a Minor Hillside Exemption with neighbor notice. Taller additions, new two-story houses and projects over 0.50 floor area ratio need a Precise Plan and a Planning Commission hearing.

How do I apply for a building permit in Torrance?

First get a Zoning Clearance from the Planning or Environmental Division. Then create an account on the city's Accela Citizen Access portal and submit the application, the clearance and your plans. Since January 5, 2026, paper plans are no longer accepted, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing work each need their own application.

How big can an ADU be in Torrance?

Up to 1,000 square feet, with junior ADUs capped at 500. Detached units may rise 18 feet for one story or 23 feet for two stories, but only 16 feet for one story inside the Hillside Overlay and Coastal Zone. Detached units need a 15 foot front setback, 4 foot side and rear setbacks and 6 feet between buildings.

What are construction hours in Torrance?

Noisy outdoor work above 50 decibels is allowed 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Sundays and city holidays are off limits, though owners who live at the property and do their own work may work from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heavy equipment needs the director's permission.