Can I Build an ADU on My Property in California?

When dreaming of extra living space, California homeowners may ask, “Can I build an ADU on my property?” And it’s a reasonable FAQ.

Highly versatile and efficient, accessory dwelling units are essentially tiny homes that can double as modern home offices, quaint granny flats, or stylish short-term rentals. There are so many ways to maximize your real estate’s potential and reimagine your backyard space.

Can I build an ADU on my property in California?

In most cases, the answer is yes. To streamline new constructions and increase affordable housing options, the state of California has mandated new laws for ADUs over the years to make the process simpler and more affordable.

Plus, when adding an ADU to your primary residence, you can benefit from a broad range of benefits. These include creating an additional living area for family members, generating consistent rental income, and potentially boosting property value.

What are the rules for adding an ADU?

The rules for ADU construction differ based on the homeowner’s jurisdiction. In most residential zoning districts across California, state law allows property owners to build ADUs with the majority of multi-family and single-family homes.

Generally, if your property meets certain criteria, such as having basic utilities available and respecting ADU size limits and property lines, you should be able to move forward with your ADU plans.

However, specific zoning requirements may vary by city or county, so do your due diligence by checking with your local government’s building and planning department.

Alternatively, you can save time by entrusting a leading ADU builder like Abodu with your new home. Let our professional team manage every step of your new ADU project, from acquiring building permits to following building codes to a T during ADU construction.

Can I have more than one ADU on my property?

Yes—the maximum number of ADUs permitted on a property depends on whether it’s a single-family dwelling or a multi-family home. Single-family residences can have one junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) and one standard ADU per lot.

On most multi-family dwellings, property owners can build a maximum of two detached ADUs plus a minimum of one internal ADU. The cap for the latter is 25% of the multi-family structure’s total number of individual units.

For manufactured homes that double as a multi-family property, the limit is one type of ADU: either a detached, conversion, or attached ADU.

Does my ADU need to have parking?

Parking requirements do not apply to specific ADUs, which include accessory structures situated:

• Less than half a mile from public transit

• In a historic district

• As part of a primary dwelling or secondary structure

Also exempt are cases where on-street parking permits are necessary but unavailable to the ADU’s tenant and when a car share vehicle is under a block away from the accessory structure.

In addition, state law prohibits local governments from mandating the substitution of an off-street parking spot for garage conversion ADUs.

What size ADU can I add to my property in California?

Local jurisdictions can establish ADU ordinances concerning minimum and maximum square footage and height limits. However, the state requires municipalities to comply with these ADU development standards:

• Must be at least 16 feet in height

• Upper limit for size cannot fall under 850 square feet

• ADUs with two or more bedrooms should be no less than 1,000 sq. ft.

Many cities in California allow detached ADUs of up to 1,200 sq.ft., but local agencies may set limits exceeding this floor area size. For a JADU, state law provides these requirements:

• Maximum of 500 sq. ft. in size

• Must be completely enclosed within a single-family residence

In addition, a homeowner cannot build a JADU on a multi-family property.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in California?

Depending on which part of California you’re in, the price tag for your ADU project could span anywhere from a median of $180,000 for a no-frills detached ADU to upwards of $500,000 for a high-end build in the Bay Area.

This range depends on many factors, including where you're building, the size of your ADU, and the materials you choose.

So instead of asking, “Can I build an ADU on my property?,” some homeowners might wonder, “Can I afford to build an ADU on my property?” Fortunately, the answer remains the same: absolutely.

Leading prefab ADU company Abodu offers an impressive selection of cost-effective ADU plans, from minimalist studios to timeless two-bedroom units. Enjoy transparent pricing and a reliable partner with custom-built ADUs starting at $228,800 or around $1,600 a month.

Start building your dream ADU with Abodu

Ever dreamt of adding a cozy guest house in your backyard or a quiet hideaway for yourself? That's where Abodu comes in.

We know ADU construction inside and out, from wrangling building permits to putting the final touches on your custom ADU design. You can make the most of your new ADU in just nine months.

If you’re gazing out into your backyard and thinking, “Can I build an ADU on my property?,” you’re not alone. It's a question that can open the door to a world of opportunity.

Book a call or showroom tour today.