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Frequently Asked Questions
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a smaller, independent home built on the same lot as a main house. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, and living space. Common types include backyard cottages, garage conversions, and in-law suites.
It depends on your property type: Single-Family Properties: 1 Detached ADU, 1 Conversion ADU (e.g., from a garage or existing space), 1 JADU (Junior ADU, inside the main home). Multifamily Properties: Up to 2 Detached ADUs, Conversion ADUs from non-living spaces like storage rooms or garages—up to 25% of existing units.
Placement options include: Detached: A separate building in your yard. Attached: Built onto your main home. Conversion: From an existing space like a garage, basement, or storage room. Above Existing Structure: Built above a garage or existing building.
A JADU is a compact living unit (up to 500 sq ft) created within your main home. It must have a separate entrance and its own kitchenette. A JADU may share a bathroom with the main house and is ideal for multigenerational living.
Yes. All ADUs in California require permits for planning, building, and safety. Cities are required by law to process ADU permits within 60 days.
Per California state law: Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the existing home's living area, or 800 sq ft, whichever is less. JADUs: Up to 500 sq ft.
No. From 2020 through at least 2025, California does not require owner-occupancy for new ADUs. However, if you're building a JADU, you must live in either the main house or the JADU.
Yes. ADUs can be rented as long-term housing (30 days or more) statewide. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) may be limited or require a local permit, depending on city ordinances.
Usually no. California waives parking requirements for ADUs if: You're within ½ mile of public transit. You convert an existing structure. Your property is in an urban or historic area.
Yes. Converting an attached or detached garage into an ADU is legal and popular. The structure must meet residential safety standards like insulation, ventilation, plumbing, and fire safety.
Most ADUs take about 6 to 12 months, depending on design complexity, permitting, and construction. Using pre-approved plans can speed up the timeline significantly.
Yes. Many California cities and counties offer Permit-Ready ADU (PRADU) plans, which save time and design fees. These plans are pre-reviewed to meet local code.
Yes, but your project may need extra review to maintain the historic character of the property or neighborhood. Always check with your local planning department early in the process.
Rental income or housing for family, Increased property value, Space flexibility for remote work or caregiving, Helps address California's housing shortage, Ideal for downsizing or aging in place.
Top 5 ADU Financing Questions (California)
There are several common options: Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) – great if you have strong equity. Cash-Out Refinance – replaces your current mortgage with a new one at a higher amount. Renovation Loans (like FHA 203(k) or Fannie Mae HomeStyle) – bundles ADU costs into your mortgage. Construction Loans – short-term financing that converts into a mortgage after the ADU is built. Personal Loans or Cash – for smaller ADUs or JADUs with lower upfront costs.
Yes, in many cases. Some lenders will count future rental income from your ADU as qualifying income, which can help you get approved or borrow more. You'll likely need a signed lease or an appraiser's rental estimate.
Yes. California has offered ADU grant programs (like the CalHFA $40,000 ADU Grant) to help cover pre-development costs like permits, design, and site prep. These programs may open and close periodically, so check with your lender or local housing agency for availability.
It depends on the type of loan: HELOCs and cash-out refinances often require 10–20% equity. Renovation loans may allow down payments as low as 3–5%. Construction loans usually require 20% or more upfront. Every lender is different, so it's important to compare your options.
Yes — in most cases. ADUs can: Generate steady rental income. Increase your property value. Offer long-term flexibility for family or downsizing. Many homeowners see a return on investment within a few years, especially in high-demand rental markets like California.
Top 5 ADU Permitting & Building Questions (California)
Yes. You need permits for: Planning/zoning (to make sure the ADU meets city/state rules). Building (structural, electrical, plumbing). Inspections (to ensure safety and code compliance). The good news? California law requires cities to approve ADU permits within 60 days of a complete application — and many now offer online portals and streamlined review.
The typical steps: 1. Site Evaluation & Design, 2. Submit Plans to the City. 3. Permit Review & Approval, 4. Construction Begins, 5. City Inspections During and After Build. 6. Final Approval & Certificate of Occupancy. Working with a design-build firm or experienced architect can make this smoother and faster.
From start to finish, most ADUs take 6 to 12 months, depending on: Your design complexity. City permitting speed. Contractor availability. Garage conversions or prefab ADUs may be faster (as little as 3–6 months), while custom builds may take longer.
All ADUs must follow: California Residential Building Code. Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards. Local city or county regulations (like height, setbacks, and fire access). State law overrides many local restrictions, but it's always smart to check with your local planning department or hire a pro to guide you.
Legally, a homeowner can act as an "owner-builder," but it's not recommended unless you have construction experience. Most people hire: A licensed general contractor. Or a design-build team who handles the whole process (design, permits, build). Hiring professionals ensures your ADU is done right, on time, and up to code.
No. Under California state law, you are not required to get neighbor approval to build an ADU. As long as your project meets state and local building codes, zoning rules, and permit requirements, you can move forward without any neighbor sign-off.
Most delays happen when: Plans are incomplete or unclear. The ADU violates zoning rules (like height or setback limits). Missing documents (site plans, structural details, energy reports, etc.). Working with a knowledgeable designer or builder familiar with your city can help avoid these issues and get approvals faster.
Not usually. For new construction, you can't live in the ADU until it's completed and passes final inspection. If you're converting part of your existing home, like a garage or basement, you may still live in the main house — but expect some disruption from noise, construction, and access needs.