Can I Build an ADU on My Property? Let’s Find Out

Thinking about building an ADU? It’s a great way to add space and value—but before you jump in, it’s important to ask: can I build an ADU on my property? Not every lot qualifies, and the answer depends on zoning, lot size, and your city’s specific rules. California has made it easier than ever to build, but your project still needs to meet current state and local regulations.

Understanding the requirements ahead of time can help you avoid expensive setbacks and wasted time. That’s where NEO Builders makes a difference. As a trusted general contractor in Los Angeles, we’re a family-run design-build team that specializes in garage conversions and ADUs. From permits to plans to the final build, we handle it all in-house. Book a free ADU consultation to get expert eyes on your property and see what’s possible.

What Is an ADU and Why Are They So Popular in California?

More and more homeowners in California are exploring ADUs—not just for rental income, but to support multigenerational living, boost resale value, or create flexible space on their property. An ADU is a legally recognized, self-contained residential unit that shares a lot with the main home. It can be detached or attached and must include a kitchen, bathroom, and a place to sleep.

ADU vs. JADU: What’s the Difference?

A Junior ADU (JADU) is a smaller unit—500 square feet max—built within the primary home or attached garage. JADUs may share a bathroom with the main house and only require an efficiency kitchen. Unlike full ADUs, JADUs have owner-occupancy requirements, making them less flexible.

Detached vs. Attached ADUs

Detached ADUs are standalone structures—often built in the backyard. Attached ADUs share at least one wall with the main home, making them an attractive option for homeowners with limited yard space. Each option has different permitting, fire code, and setback considerations. Your builder can help assess which layout works best based on your lot and goals.

Why ADUs Appeal to Modern California Homeowners

Privacy, passive income, and design freedom make ADUs incredibly attractive to today's homeowners. They allow for luxury guest suites, home offices, or long-term rental units without sacrificing the primary home’s integrity. NEO Builders designs ADUs that blend seamlessly with your property’s architecture while maximizing utility. Want inspiration? Check out our ADU Property Tours to see what’s possible.

Can I Build an ADU on My Property in California?

The short answer: usually, yes. But let’s dig deeper.

Understanding Zoning and Lot Requirements

Most residential properties in California, including multi-family properties, qualify for an ADU, but your zoning designation—like R1, RD1.5, or R2—determines the size, placement, and type of unit you’re allowed to build. You’ll also need to consider factors like lot coverage limits, setbacks, existing structures, and any easements or utility access on the property. These details can affect whether you’re eligible for a detached ADU, an attached unit, an above garage unit, or a garage conversion.

Key Eligibility Rules for Single-Family and Multi-Family Homes

In California, single-family properties are allowed one ADU and one JADU. Multi-family properties may qualify for multiple units—up to eight detached ADUs and one conversion for every four existing units (from storage rooms or garages). This makes ADUs an attractive value-add for rental portfolios.

What Size ADU Can I Build?

Almost every California homeowner is eligible to build at least an 800 sq ft ADU up to 16 ft in height regardless of floor area ratio (FAR), property square footage, or front setback. This is known as a 66323 unit. 

For ADUs with two bedrooms or more, your city must allow you to build at least 1,000 sq ft with a max of 1,200 sq ft. 

Finally, for garage conversions, there is technically no size limit. As long as you do not exceed the footprint of the existing structure, you can utilize as much of the garage as you’d like. However, you are allowed an additional 150 sq ft for ingress or egress. Most garages are under 500 sq ft, which is the perfect amount of space for a studio or one-bedroom. 

How SB 9, SB 13, and AB 68 Simplified the Process

Recent state bills like SB 13 and AB 976 removed owner-occupancy requirements and waived impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft. SB 9 and AB 68 made it easier to streamline permitting and override restrictive local development standards. Together, these changes have made it much easier for homeowners to understand how to build an ADU legally—with fewer delays and less red tape.

What Are the ADU Rules in Los Angeles?

Setbacks, Size Limits, and Height Restrictions

Los Angeles allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft with 4-foot rear and side yard setbacks. Height limits depend on several factors:

• 16 ft is allowed under any circumstance

• 18ft is allowed on multi-family properties or properties within half a mile distance from public transit

• 25 ft is allowed for attached ADUs unless the local zoning height restrictions are lower

Parking Requirements and Transit Exemptions

You won’t need to add parking if your ADU is within a half-mile of public transit or your property is in a historically designated neighborhood—a huge plus in LA. When parking is required, tandem or uncovered spots typically satisfy the code.

HOA Rules and Local Ordinances

Local zoning codes and HOA guidelines can influence where and how you build your ADU. Front yard ADUs are rarely allowed due to setback requirements, but backyard and attached units are generally supported. While HOAs can’t prohibit ADUs outright under state law, they can enforce design standards or limit placement details within a reasonable degree—so it’s worth checking early in the process.

What Types of ADUs Can I Build on My Property?

Garage Conversions (NEO Builders Specialty)

Converting a garage is one of the fastest and most cost-efficient ways to add an ADU—granted that the foundation and framing is structurally sound. These projects can typically be completed in as little as 6 to 10 weeks, depending on permitting and site conditions. As the fastest ADU builder in Los Angeles, NEO Builders specializes in transforming existing garages into code-compliant, stylish living spaces with all-new systems and layouts.

Home Additions and Interior Conversions

These units repurpose areas within the main home—like a finished basement or rear wing. 

Detached New Construction Units

This type allows for maximum square footage and independence, often built in the backyard. While more complex in terms of permitting—due to utility connections, setbacks, and new foundation requirements—they offer complete design freedom and higher long-term ROI. 

Above Garage Units

Above garage ADUs provide vertical expansion—an excellent solution when yard space is limited. These units are built atop an existing garage or as part of a garage rebuild, offering privacy and elevated views. They typically require structural reinforcement and a new stairwell, but are highly sought-after for both rental and personal use.

Attached Units

Attached ADUs share at least one wall with the primary residence and can be designed as seamless extensions of the existing home. They’re ideal for multigenerational living or guest quarters, especially when exterior access is prioritized. These units usually have faster utility tie-ins but may be subject to more detailed fire separation requirements.

What Permits and Approvals Do I Need to Build an ADU?

Building Permit Process and Timeline

California law—specifically AB 2221 and SB 897—requires that ADU permits be approved or denied within 60 days of submitting a complete application. You’ll need site plans, floor plans, elevation drawings, and Title 24 compliance documents to get started. This expedited process has made building ADUs more attractive for homeowners. 

Additional Permits: Coastal Zones, Easements, and Trees

If your home is in a coastal zone or subject to utility easements, additional layers of approval may be required. Protected trees or hillside grading can also trigger supplemental reviews.

Legalizing Unpermitted or Existing Units

Have an unpermitted ADU? You may be able to legalize it under California’s ADU amnesty rules, especially if the space meets basic safety standards. Starting in 2025, AB 2533 allows homeowners to bring older, unpermitted units up to code without tearing them down—typically through a safety inspection, minor upgrades, and formal approval from the city.

To learn more, read: How to Legalize Your ADU with AB2533

What Are the Safety, Utility, and Code Requirements for an ADU?

Fire, Safety, and Utility Requirements

ADUs must meet local fire access standards, include smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and—if attached to the main home—typically require a 1-hour fire-rated separation. 

Two-story ADUs or those located in high fire severity zones may trigger sprinkler requirements. You’ll also need proper electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems in line with current California Building Code. These safety elements are non-negotiable during permitting and final inspection.

Do I Need Separate Utilities for My ADU?

Separate meters are optional but may be required for rental units. You’ll likely need to upgrade your main electrical panel and water service to handle the additional load.

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Building an ADU?

How an ADU Can Raise Your Property Value

Professionally built ADUs add permitted square footage, which can directly increase your home's appraised value. They also boost marketability by offering flexible space for renters, extended family, or buyers seeking additional income potential. 

In competitive markets like Los Angeles, a well-designed ADU can raise resale value by $100,000 or more, depending on location, layout, and rental demand. Even without selling, many homeowners see strong returns through long-term rental income.

Flexible Use for Family, Guests, or Tenants

Today’s homeowners want options. ADUs support evolving lifestyles, like caring for aging parents, creating guest suites, or working from home—all without compromising privacy.

FAQs: Can I Build an ADU on My Property?

What Is the First Step to Building an ADU?

Start with a site assessment and zoning check. You can book a free ADU consultation to get clarity before committing to plans.

Can I Convert My Garage Into an ADU?

Yes, if it meets structural and fire code requirements. NEO Builders and Design specializes in these conversions.

Can I Build An ADU in My Front Yard? 

Not usually. Most cities in California—including Los Angeles—prohibit ADUs in the front yard due to setback requirements and visibility concerns. There are exceptions in some cases, but backyard and attached ADUs are much more commonly approved. A site-specific review is the best way to confirm what’s allowed on your lot.

However, if an 800 sq ft ADU is not possible anywhere else on your lot and the front yard is the only available space, your city cannot enforce front setback restrictions and must allow your ADU.

Can I Build An ADU in My Backyard?

Yes—backyard ADUs are the most common and usually easiest to approve, as long as your lot meets local zoning and setback requirements.

Can I Build More Than One ADU on My Property?

In many cases, yes. State law allows one ADU and one JADU on single-family lots, with more flexibility on multi-family properties.

Are There Any Restrictions on Who Can Live in an ADU in Los Angeles?

No—there are no restrictions based on age, relationship, or income. You can rent the unit or use it for family, and cities cannot require that occupants be related. 

How Long Does the Permitting Process Take in Los Angeles?

Up to 60 days once your application is complete and submitted to LADBS.

What Utility Requirements Should I Expect for an ADU?

Expect to upgrade your electric, water, and possibly sewer systems. 

Does Building an ADU Increase Property Taxes?

Yes, but only based on the value of the new unit—not your entire property. It's often a small percentage increase.

Can I Sell My ADU Separately From My Main House?

Maybe. Individual cities determine whether they want to allow the individual sale of an ADU through a process known as condo-ization. At this time, only San Jose has passed an ordinance allowing ADU condo-ization. Other cities like Berkeley and San Francisco have considered it. 

However, an alternative is to split your property and sell a portion of it. 

What Areas in Los Angeles Do You Service?

NEO Builders works across the greater Los Angeles area, including the Valley, Westside, South Bay, San Fernando Valley, and more.

Ready to Build an ADU on Your Property? Book a Free Consultation With NEO Builders

Los Angeles ADUs, Done Faster and Smarter

NEO Builders isn’t just another ADU contractor—we specialize in garage conversions and custom ADUs built for real-life living, not cookie-cutter rentals. Our projects are faster, design-forward, and built to blend seamlessly with your existing home.

Full-Service, No Guesswork

From zoning checks to permit approvals, our in-house team handles everything. We know LA’s process inside out—so you’re not stuck in red tape or chasing city approvals for months.

Family-Owned. Locally Trusted. Design-Driven

Since 2017, NEO Builders has helped hundreds of homeowners unlock their property’s potential. Whether you're adding space for family or creating a long-term income stream, we’ll build it right—and fast.

Book your free ADU consultation and let’s talk about what’s possible for your lot!