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

1. Prepare your plans (site, floor, elevation, energy forms)
2. Secure clearances from city departments (LADWP, Planning, Public Works)
3. Submit via ePlanLA
4. Pay permit & review fees ($5,000–$15,000)
5. 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.