How big can an ADU be in California?
State law allows ADUs up to 1,200 sqft. Local jurisdictions can set their own maximum at or above 850 sqft for a 1-bedroom and 1,000 sqft for 2+ bedrooms — but they cannot go below those state floors.
ADUs
Attached, detached, above-garage, garage conversions, and interior ADUs across California.
Overview
What this service covers
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is California's most powerful tool for adding income — and equity — to property you already own. State law (Gov Code §65852.2) requires ministerial approval, limits local fees, and lets you build up to 1,200 sqft of additional living space on most single-family lots.
We build all five common ADU types: detached new construction, garage conversion, attached addition, interior conversion, and above-garage. Each has its own cost, permit path, and rent ceiling — we help you pick the right one for the lot.
Every ADU project includes plans, structural and Title 24 energy, permits, full construction, separate metering where required, and final certificate of occupancy. We coordinate with the local building department from intake through final inspection.
What's included
- Feasibility study: lot, setbacks, utilities, fire access
- Architectural plans, structural, Title 24 energy report
- Permit submission and plan-check corrections
- Foundation, framing, MEP, drywall, finishes, flooring
- Kitchen and bathroom build with appliances
- Separate water/electric where required
- Landscape integration and parking compliance
Our process
How adus jobs run.
01
Feasibility
Site visit, zoning review, ADU type recommendation.
02
Design
Floor plan, elevations, structural, energy compliance.
03
Permit
Submit; respond to plan check; ministerial approval within 60 days.
04
Build
Site prep → foundation → frame → MEP → finish. Weekly owner update.
05
Close
Final inspection, certificate of occupancy, warranty walk.
Pricing
Typical California ADU costs: garage conversion $90k–$160k; attached or interior $130k–$220k; detached new construction $220k–$400k depending on size and finish. Site-specific factors (utility runs, grading) can move these.
Timeline
Permit: 60 days under state law. Build: 4 months (conversion) to 8–10 months (detached new construction).
FAQs
Common questions about adus.
Do I need owner-occupancy to build an ADU?
No — state law removed the owner-occupancy requirement for new ADUs through 2025, then it returns for new permits unless your local jurisdiction has waived it. JADUs still require owner-occupancy. Always check current state and local rules at permit time.
How long does ADU permitting take?
California requires the local agency to approve or deny ministerially within 60 days of a complete application. Most of our ADUs clear plan check within 6–10 weeks total.
How much does an ADU cost in California?
Most projects fall in the $90,000–$400,000 range depending on type. Garage conversions are usually the cheapest because the slab, walls, and roof already exist. Detached new construction is the most expensive but offers the most flexibility and resale value.
Will an ADU increase my property taxes?
Yes, but only the ADU itself is reassessed — the main house keeps its existing Prop 13 basis. The added tax is usually a small fraction of the rental income.
Can I sell an ADU separately from the main house?
Under AB 1033 (effective 2024), local jurisdictions can opt-in to allow ADUs to be sold separately as condominiums. Adoption is still limited — we check whether your city allows it before you build.
How much rent can I get for an ADU in Southern California?
Typical detached ADUs in LA/Orange County rent for $2,400–$3,800/month. Garage-conversion ADUs rent for $1,800–$2,800. Specific numbers depend heavily on neighborhood and parking.
Do I need parking for my ADU?
State law eliminated parking requirements for ADUs within ½ mile of public transit, in historic districts, and several other categories. Most urban California parcels qualify for no-parking ADUs.
Related services
Often paired with adus.
Construction
JADUs
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units — small build, major impact, big California incentives.
Learn more
Construction
New Builds
Ground-up construction from permits and plans through final inspection.
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Construction
Add Ons
Additions, bump-outs, and conversions that expand without the stress.
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Management Services
Property Management
Complete care: oversight, tenant management, maintenance, marketing, financial reporting, and compliance.
Learn moreReady to get started?
Tell us about the property and the work you need. We'll respond within one business day.