Fastest ADU Builders in Glendale
At NEO Builders and Design, we’re proud to be the fastest ADU builders in Los Angeles—completing standard ADU conversions in as little as six weeks. That speed and efficiency carries through to every Glendale project we take on. From navigating permits to completing construction, we handle the entire process from start to finish.
Our experienced team of architects, designers, and contractors knows how to navigate Glendale’s zoning and permit requirements with precision. Every ADU is thoughtfully planned and built to meet local codes, with a strong focus on efficiency, craftsmanship, and long-term value.
Building Accessory Dwelling Units That Create Generational Rental Income
Creating a second source of income is one of the most effective ways to build long-term financial security—and when that income is passive, it becomes even more valuable. An ADU in Glendale gives homeowners the opportunity to generate steady monthly income through long-term leases. While short-term rentals are not permitted for ADUs in Glendale (defined as rentals under 30 consecutive days), long-term tenants offer consistent, reliable returns—especially in a city with strong rental demand and limited housing supply.
More than just a secondary income stream, a well-planned ADU can become a lasting source of generational wealth, increasing property value and laying the foundation for long-term financial growth.
We specialize in ADU garage conversions in Glendale, backyard units, and detached studios—all designed to help you maximize your ROI in one of the most competitive real estate markets in Los Angeles County.
Improving Your Space: Luxury ADUs That Set Us Apart
Unlike standard prefab builders, we design and build luxury ADUs with high-end finishes and thoughtful customization. We outfit every Glendale ADU with premium cabinetry, integrated smart tech, and custom finishes that elevate everyday living.
In Glendale, you also have the flexibility to tailor your ADU to your lifestyle. Popular options include in-law units, secondary dwellings, backyard cottages, yoga studios, workshops, or even business spaces. Whatever your vision, our team can bring it to life—with functionality, comfort, and style at the core.
Expertise in Glendale ADU Rules and Regulations
As a top ADU contractor in Glendale homeowners trust, we know the ins and outs of local building laws. We’ll walk you through Glendale CA ADU requirements, including:
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Setbacks: 4 feet from the side and rear, and 6 feet from the main home.
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Parking: One space is typically required, but no additional parking is needed if the ADU is located within half a mile of public transit, built within an existing structure, in a historic district, or part of a car-share area—per California state law.
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Size: Detached ADUs in Glendale can be up to 1,200 sq. ft. in size. For attached ADUs, the limit is 50 percent of the primary residence’s living area.
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Title 24 Compliance: We ensure your ADU meets California’s latest energy efficiency standards.
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Home Addition Services We Offer in Glendale
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Detached ADUs
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Garage conversions
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Junior ADUs (JADUs)
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Backyard cottages
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Guest suites
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In-law units
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Home offices
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Creative studios
Whatever you have in mind, we're here to help. Contact us for a free ADU consultation, and let’s bring your ideas to life with a custom solution that fits your property and lifestyle.
NEO Builders is the best ADU contractor for your job. Contact us today!
Benefits of Building a Glendale ADU
With rising housing costs, limited inventory, and a high demand for flexible living spaces, building an ADU in Glendale offers a smart, future-ready investment for homeowners. Here are just a few of the benefits:
Return on Investment
A well-designed ADU can add six figures or more to your property’s value—especially in high-demand areas like Glendale where rental income potential and price-per-square-foot are among the highest in the region.
Completely Customizable
From backyard studios to fully equipped rental units, your ADU can be tailored to fit your lifestyle or income goals.
Appeals to Future Buyers
Buyers are looking for flexibility—and a finished ADU can make your home more competitive when it’s time to sell. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), homes with ADUs appraise for over $30,000 more on average, and in some cases, the added value exceeds 30%.
Rental Income Potential
Depending on size and layout, Glendale ADUs can earn anywhere from $1,800 to $3,500+ per month through long-term rentals. These units are especially popular among renters looking for more privacy than a traditional apartment complex can offer. Detached ADUs often come with access to private entrances, quieter surroundings, and even outdoor space—features that are in high demand in today’s rental market.
Prime Location
Glendale offers strong rental demand thanks to its top-rated schools, major employers, and walkable neighborhoods. Local schools like Herbert Hoover High School, Glendale High School, and Thomas Edison Elementary are highly rated and attract families to the area.
The city is also home to major employers such as DreamWorks Animation, Nestlé USA, and Glendale Memorial Hospital, making it an ideal location for professionals and families alike. These factors contribute to high ADU earning potential and long-term value.
More Affordable Than Relocating
With the average home price in Glendale hovering around $1.2 million, expanding your current property with an ADU is often a far more affordable solution than upsizing. A well-designed ADU provides the extra space you need—without the hassle and high costs of buying a new home.
Ideal for Multigenerational Living
Glendale ADUs make it easier to accommodate aging parents, returning college students, or extended family members—while maintaining comfort and privacy for everyone. As housing costs continue to rise, multigenerational living is becoming more common across the U.S. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 Americans now live in a multigenerational household, according to a 2022 study by Pew Research Center. Building a custom ADU allows families to stay close while still enjoying personal space and independence.
Popular Room Additions in Glendale
Curious about how you can add an ADU to your property? Here are some of the most popular additions we help homeowners bring to life:
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Garage conversions
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Detached backyard units
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Guest suites
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Junior ADUs (JADUs)
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Home offices
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Yoga studios
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Rental apartments
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Private gyms
About Glendale, California
Glendale is a vibrant city just outside of downtown Los Angeles, known for its clean neighborhoods, excellent schools, and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. It blends the convenience of city living with the charm of a close-knit community—making it a top choice for homeowners and renters alike.
The city is also home to major employers in the entertainment and creative industries, including DreamWorks Animation, Marvel Animation Studios, and the Walt Disney Imagineering campus. With so many professionals working nearby, Glendale ADUs are especially appealing for tenants who value privacy, comfort, and proximity to work.
If you're thinking about expanding your property or creating a rental unit, Glendale is an ideal place to build an ADU. The strong demand for housing, combined with the city's accessibility and employment opportunities, makes it a smart long-term investment.
Attractions & Activities
The Americana at Brand
An outdoor shopping and dining destination featuring high-end retail, restaurants, and luxury apartments.
Deukmejian Wilderness Park
A peaceful retreat in north Glendale offering hiking trails, scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, and a nature center.
Museum of Neon Art (MONA)
An artsy cultural gem showcasing electric creativity—perfect for a weekend outing.
Brand Library & Art Center
Located in a historic mansion, this local landmark offers art exhibits, music events, and community programs.
How Much You Can Make Renting Your ADU in Glendale
Based on current market trends, here’s what Glendale homeowners are typically earning from ADU rentals:
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Studio ADU: $1,800–$2,300/month
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1-Bedroom ADU: $2,400–$2,900/month
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2-Bedroom ADU: $3,000–$3,500/month
What Should You Keep in Mind in the Planning Stage of Your ADU?
Since California’s 2020 ADU law updates, getting plans approved for a Glendale ADU has become much more straightforward—but the planning phase still requires careful attention to detail.
One of the most time-consuming steps in the process is securing approvals for your custom ADU in Glendale. This begins with working closely with your architect or designer, who will create a detailed site plan that aligns with local zoning and building regulations. That plan will include the proposed ADU location, unit size, parking layout, setbacks, floor plans, elevations, and any existing structures. Once finalized, your architect will submit the complete package to the City of Glendale for review. Depending on your zoning, some properties in Glendale may be eligible for more than one ADU or JADU.
Once your plans are finalized, our team submits all necessary structural and energy reports to the Glendale Building & Safety Division. Permit review typically takes 30 to 120 days, although timelines can vary. An expedited permitting option is available for an additional fee.
Understanding Parking Requirements for Your Glendale ADU
Most ADUs in Glendale require one additional parking space, which can be covered or uncovered. However, this requirement is waived in several cases—including if the ADU is located within half a mile of public transit, is part of a garage conversion, or is within a historic district. According to the HCD Handbook, replacement parking is not required when a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted to create an ADU. Still, specific zoning conditions and lot configurations in Glendale may affect parking plans, so it’s important to review your property’s requirements during the planning phase.
Our team can help you navigate these rules to avoid delays during the permitting process.
Setback & Size Requirements in Glendale
The City of Glendale follows California’s ADU regulations with a few local considerations:
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Size: ADUs in Glendale can be up to 1,200 square feet. For attached ADUs, the size may be limited to 50 percent of the primary home’s existing living area—unless the ADU is 800 square feet or less, which must be approved under state law regardless of size percentage. While there’s no official statewide minimum, most ADUs start at 150 square feet to meet basic habitability and design standards.
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Setbacks: Detached ADUs must maintain at least 4 feet of clearance from side and rear property lines. Additional spacing from the main house may apply depending on local fire safety codes.
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Exemptions: Garage conversions and other existing accessory structures may be eligible for reduced or waived setbacks, offering more flexibility in how you use your lot.
Title 24 Compliance for Glendale ADUs
All ADUs in California, including those in Glendale, must meet Title 24 energy efficiency standards. These rules help reduce wasteful energy use in new construction and are updated every three years.
At NEO Builders, our architects design your custom ADU in Glendale with Title 24 in mind—factoring in requirements for insulation, windows, high-efficiency water heaters, and more. Your plans will include a full window schedule and energy documentation to ensure approval.
ADU vs. JADU: What’s the Difference in Glendale?
A Junior ADU (JADU) is a smaller unit—up to 500 square feet—created by converting part of an existing, legally permitted bedroom or other existing space within the primary home. It includes an efficiency kitchen and may share a bathroom with the main home only if the ADU contains interior access to the main home.
A full Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a larger, self-contained living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and private entrance. In Glendale, ADUs can vary in size, with detached units allowed up to 1,200 square feet. Attached ADUs may be limited to 50 percent of the main home’s living area, unless the unit is 800 sq. ft. or less, which is permitted under state law regardless of that percentage.
NEO Builders and Design handles everything from planning and site prep to permits and final inspections—ensuring your Glendale ADU meets all city requirements and is built for long-term value.
Steps to Building an ADU in Glendale
1. Schedule a Free Consultation
We start with a phone consultation to assess your property and determine what size and type of ADU you’re legally allowed to build under City of Glendale regulations.
2. Design & Planning with Our Architect
Next, you’ll meet with one of our experienced architects and designers to plan the layout, features, and style of your ADU. This step ensures your design meets all local building codes and zoning requirements. Our team makes this process easy and efficient from day one.
3. Permit Submission to the City
We handle the full permit submission process with the City of Glendale. You cover the permit fees, and we take care of everything else to get your project approved and ready for construction.
4. ADU Construction Begins
Once your plans are approved, our build team gets to work. Every Glendale ADU is built with high-quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and full code compliance—delivering a smooth, stress-free construction experience from start to finish.
5. Final Inspections
We coordinate directly with Glendale inspectors to ensure your ADU is fully up to code. Our team walks them through the property to secure final sign-off.
6. Move In or Rent It Out
Once inspections are complete, your ADU is ready to go—whether you’re moving in a loved one, listing it as a rental, or enjoying the extra space yourself.
FAQs About Building A Glendale ADU
What size can my ADU be in Glendale?
You can build an ADU up to 1,200 square feet in Glendale. For attached ADUs, the size is limited to 50 percent of your primary home’s existing living area—unless the unit is 800 sq. ft. or smaller, which is allowed under state law regardless of percentage.
Do I need parking for my ADU?
In most cases, one off-street parking space is required per ADU. However, this requirement is waived if your ADU is located within half a mile of public transit, built within an existing primary residence or accessory structure, or situated in a historic district. Glendale follows these California state-level exemptions, so depending on your property’s location and zoning, you may not need to provide additional parking.
How long does it take to get permits in Glendale?
The permitting process typically takes between 30 and 120 days, depending on your project and city review timelines.
Can I rent my Glendale ADU short-term?
No. The City of Glendale does not allow short-term rentals (defined as fewer than 30 consecutive days) in Accessory Dwelling Units, regardless of zoning. All ADU rentals must be for 30 days or longer in compliance with local regulations.
What’s the difference between a JADU and an ADU in Glendale?
A JADU is a smaller, attached unit (up to 500 sq. ft.) created from an existing bedroom or other space within the primary home and includes an efficiency kitchen. An ADU is a larger, independent unit (up to 1,200 sq. ft.) with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance. It can be attached, detached, or converted from a garage.
NEO Builders and Design is the Best ADU Builder in Glendale. Book a Free Consultation Today!
If you're ready to build an ADU in Glendale, trust NEO Builders and Design to get it done right. As a leading general contractor in Los Angeles, we specialize in high-quality, custom ADUs that boost property value and create lasting income.
We take care of everything—from design and permits to construction and final approval—so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors or worry about missed steps.
Book your free ADU consultation today—and take the first step toward building something that adds real value to your home.
