Arcadia, CA · Los Angeles County
Covenant for Accessory Structure
A recorded covenant restricting a detached accessory structure from being used as a dwelling unit, rented, or occupied overnight, required for most detached structures in Arcadia.
- California-licensed notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
Arcadia requires this covenant for every detached accessory structure other than a required garage, to legally bind the property against overnight stays, rentals, or use as a separate dwelling unit. Once Planning Services approves the application, the City has the document notarized and records it with the Los Angeles County Recorder's Office, so the property owner's signature must be verified by a notary before recording.
Who needs it
Arcadia property owners building or maintaining a detached accessory structure, such as a workshop, pool house, or storage building, other than a required garage.
Why it needs a notary
The form states that once approved, the City will notarize the document and record it with the Los Angeles County Recorder's Office, making a notarized owner signature a prerequisite to recording.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Covenant
Get the Covenant - Accessory Structure Application from Arcadia Planning Services.
- 2
Fill in Property Details
Enter the property address, applicant, and property owner information.
- 3
Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare the grant deed, title report, and approved plans required with the filing.
- 4
Book an Online Notary
Schedule a remote online notarization session for the owner's signature.
- 5
Sign on Video
Verify identity and sign the covenant in front of the notary during the video call.
- 6
Submit to Planning Services
Return the notarized covenant to Arcadia Planning Services for recording.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Arcadia. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed California online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need this covenant notarized?
- Yes, Arcadia requires the covenant to be notarized before it is recorded with the Los Angeles County Recorder's Office.
- How do I get the accessory structure covenant notarized online?
- Upload the completed covenant, verify your identity, and sign in front of a licensed online notary during a live video session.
- When is this covenant required?
- Arcadia requires it for every detached accessory structure other than a required garage, before submitting plans for building plan check.
- Will the county accept an online notarization for recording?
- California recognizes notarial acts performed under another state's law per Civil Code §1189(b); check with the City if unsure before submitting.