Los Angeles ADU Design-Build Experts
Golden ADU helps homeowners across Los Angeles unlock new income, create flexible space, and boost their property value through beautifully built Accessory Dwelling Units — from concept to keys.
Why Build an ADU in Los Angeles?
- Earn up to $2,300/mo in passive income from a 1-bed rental
- Increase property value without buying more land
- Support family living — aging parents, returning kids, or caregivers
- Flexible use: rental, guest house, studio, or office
- Bonus: Los Angeles offers pre-approved plans to speed things up
What’s Allowed? (The Rules, Simplified)
📍 Where You Can Build
ADUs are allowed in almost all residential zones (R-1, R-2, etc.) and on any lot with an existing or planned home. JADUs must be inside the primary residence. Multi-family properties can add 1–2 detached units or convert storage spaces into legal rentals.
📏 Size & Height
- Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq ft
- Attached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq ft (max 50% of primary home)
- JADUs: Max 500 sq ft
- Movable Tiny Homes: 150–430 sq ft
- Max height: 2 stories for detached; must match main house for attached
📐 Setbacks
- Converted garage or interior space: No added setback
- New ADUs: 4–5 ft side and rear (less if near alley)
- Equine zones: 10 ft minimum side yard
🚗 Parking Rules
No parking is required if your property is within ½ mile of transit, or if converting an existing space. Otherwise, 1 space per ADU — tandem and setback parking allowed.
🔐 Legal Requirements
- ADUs: No owner occupancy required
- JADUs: Must live in either main house or JADU
- Short-term rentals (under 30 days): Not allowed
- Historic areas (HPOZ): Need design review approval
💡 Bonus Tip
ADUs under 750 sq ft are exempt from new utility connection fees. Solar panels are required on new detached ADUs.
How Permitting Works in L.A.
Option 1: Standard Permitting
- Prepare your plans (site, floor, elevation, energy forms)
- Secure clearances from city departments (LADWP, Planning, Public Works)
- Submit via ePlanLA
- Pay permit & review fees ($5,000–$15,000)
- Schedule inspections and receive your Certificate of Occupancy
Option 2: Standard Plan Program
Use pre-approved designs from LADBS to save time and money. Simply add your site details and submit online.
How Much Does It Cost to Build?
- Garage Conversion: $100k–$125k
- Detached ADU: $180k–$400k (depends on size, finishes, access)
- Design & Engineering: $8,000–$20,000 (free if using Standard Plan)
- Permits & Fees: $5,000–$15,000
- Per sq ft range: $300–$450 typical in L.A.
Costs can increase for hillside lots, protected trees, or sewer rerouting. We'll walk your site and give you a free estimate.
Smart Ways to Finance Your ADU
- 🏦 CalHFA ADU Grant: Up to $40,000 for design and permits (check 2025 availability)
- 🏡 HELOC or Home Equity Loan
- 💵 Cash-Out Refinance (wrap ADU cost into one loan)
- 🛠️ 203k or RenoFi Loans (based on future value)
- 💼 Construction Loans (for complex projects)
What You Need to Know About Property Taxes
Only the new ADU is assessed — not your entire home. Example: Build a $200,000 ADU → approx. $2,000/yr added to your tax bill. Prop 13 protects the rest.
Special Programs That Help
- 🤝 LA ADU Accelerator: Match your unit with a long-term, low-income tenant (City screens them!)
- 🧱 Standard Plan Program: Pre-approved designs to skip weeks of red tape
- 📜 State ADU Laws: Relaxed zoning limits mean fewer headaches
Build with Confidence
- ✔️ Local code experts (we’ve done this 100+ times)
- ✔️ In-house crew, no outsourcing delays
- ✔️ Pay-after-inspection options available
- ✔️ We handle permits, plans, and all the moving parts
📞 Questions?
Call LADBS at (213) 482-0000 or email [email protected] for city-specific questions.
For your actual project — talk to us at Golden ADU.
