Junior Accessory Dwelling Units: Guide to Junior ADU in Los Angeles

A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a compact, versatile living space that’s becoming much more popular in California. Offering modern amenities and affordable costs, these dwellings are attached to or within a main home.

Whether you’re looking to maximize your property’s potential or generate some side income, here’s everything you need to know about Junior Accessory Dwelling Units in Los Angeles.

What is a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)?

A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a smaller, self-contained living space that is either attached to or already inside of a main, larger home. These self-contained spaces are different from simply renting a room - they’re fully functional, separate sections of a home that allow for privacy.

Unlike a standard Accessory Dwelling Unit, a JADU is defined as being under 500 square feet and must be incorporated into the main home’s structure or attached directly to it. JADUs may share some amenities but still offer privacy and functionality.

What is the Difference Between a Junior ADU and an ADU?

There are a few primary differences between a Junior ADU and an ADU, such as the size, features, location, and utility connections. Here’s how they differ between each space. 

• Size: ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet, while JADUs are capped at 500 square feet.
• Independent Features: ADUs typically have their own kitchens and bathrooms. JADUs may share a bathroom with the main home but must include a basic kitchenette. It may be better to offer a renter their own private bathroom.
• Location: ADUs can be standalone structures or attached to the main home. JADUs must be part of the existing home or an accessory structure, such as a garage.
• Utility Connections: JADUs often share utilities with the primary residence, which can reduce construction costs. ADUs may require separate utility hookups if they are not connected to a main dwelling.

If you don’t have a lot of extra space on your lot to build an independent ADU, a JADU may be a cost-effective way to go. You can convert your existing space relatively affordably and quickly and can rent out the JADU for passive income every month.

Requirements of a Junior ADU in Los Angeles

There are a number of zoning and design requirements for a Junior ADU in Los Angeles - here’s what you need to know in order to comply with city regulations. These regulations ensure that the units are safe, functional, and compliant.

• Size: We’ve mentioned this a few times already, but a JADU must not exceed 500 square feet in size.
• Location: JADUs must be constructed within or attached to an existing primary home. Most often you’ll see a garage converted into a JADU.
• Kitchen: Each individual JADU must be fitted with a kitchenette and include basic appliances like a small sink, an appliance for cooking, and a refrigerator.
• Bathroom: JADUs can share a bathroom with the main home or include a separate, private bathroom.
• Exterior Entrance: A JADU must have an independent, exterior entrance to ensure safety and accessibility. It’s also important to provide an exterior entrance for fire safety.
• Owner Occupancy: The primary property owner must live in the main dwelling or in the JADU.
• Parking: If the property is located within a half mile of public transit, parking requirements may be waived. Otherwise, adequate parking is required.

It’s important to adhere to these rules and regulations, otherwise, you may be hit with steep fines and penalties. You’re also required to prove compliance in order for the JADU to be constructed, meaning you have to meet these requirements before you even begin building your JADU.

Not only are these important for safety and compliance, but you’ll also have a much higher chance of renting out your JADU if you offer these features and more. While you’re not required to have a full-size kitchen and independent bathroom, offering both will meet regulations and will be more attractive to potential renters.

What to Know About Building a JADU in Los Angeles

Building a junior accessory dwelling unit in Los Angeles is a fantastic way to increase the value of your home and potentially generate some side income. It also requires careful planning to ensure full compliance with local regulations and zoning laws. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when planning your next JADU build.

• Permit Process: Before you even begin building your JADU or converting your garage, you need a permit from the city. You must obtain the proper permit from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). In order to obtain a permit, you need to submit detailed plans to ensure that you’re complying with local laws.
• Zoning Regulations: JADUs are permitted generally in most residential zones, but that doesn’t mean you can just start building one out. It is essential to verify specific requirements in your neighborhood before you begin construction. You may need to have your home re-zoned in order to comply with local regulations.
• Construction Costs: Because a JADU is smaller than a standard ADU, building one is often more affordable. However, if you’re converting a garage or adding on to your existing home, it’s important to budget for potential structural modifications.
• Timeline: The timeline for building out a JADU is shorter than a standard ADU, but there could be complexities that delay the project. It’s crucial to plan ahead as it can take several months from the time you receive your permits to the last day of construction.
• Professional Help: It’s important to work with experienced contractors to ensure you’re complying with safety and city regulations, as well as getting the job done right the first time.

Benefits of Building a JADU in Los Angeles

As we mentioned, building a JADU in Los Angeles can significantly increase the value of your home as well as give you consistent rental income. Renting out a JADU provides consistent monthly income to help offset mortgage payments and other expenses. Here are some other top benefits of building a JADU in Los Angeles.

• Housing Flexibility: If you have friends or family that often visit, a JADU is a great way to provide a place to stay while also keeping privacy. Having a separate, independent space for them to stay in ensures everyone is comfortable.
• Sustainability: By building a JADU within or attached to existing homes, the environmental impact is limited. It minimizes land use and typically doesn’t require much environmental disruption.
• Community: Building a JADU to rent can help address housing shortages in Los Angeles, giving community members an affordable place to live.

Average Junior ADU Cost in Los Angeles

The cost to build a Junior ADU in Los Angeles can range depending on the size, features, and complexity of the build, as well as the design materials and labor. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000+.

Structural modifications such as reconfiguring a garage or even adding on to the existing structure can require extensive time, labor, and materials. If you’re providing a full kitchen and/or bathroom, those also require extensive modifications. Do you want basic finishes or high-end finishes? Materials will play an important factor when it comes to pricing.

Every junior accessory dwelling unit is unique, so it’s important to work with trusted JADU builders like Avenue Remodeling to get an accurate, fair quote for your next build.

Los Angeles City Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations

Now that you’ve gotten a good overview of what a JADU is and some important considerations for building, let’s take a look at some specific requirements for building a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit in Los Angeles.

• Zoning Requirements: As we mentioned, JADUs are allowed in most residential areas, but you should always check with your local government office before building. There are specific setback and lot coverage rules that apply, and if you don’t follow these requirements, you could face fines and penalties as well as having to remove your JADU build.
• Fire Safety: Units must have proper ventilation and external exits to meet minimum fire safety codes in Los Angeles.
• Energy Efficiency: California has specific energy efficiency standards, including insulation and energy-efficient windows. JADUs must adhere to all of these standards and regulations.
• Noise Ordinances: Like most residential areas, you’ll have to comply with local noise ordinances. This means enhancements to the JADU to minimize noise coming from the unit.

These are a high-level overview of the regulations in Los Angeles. It’s crucial that you understand the full regulations and requirements before you start your build. By partnering with an experienced ADU builder like Avenue Remodeling, you can leave the regulations and zoning requirements to the experts. If you don’t comply with regulations, there can be serious fines and penalties involved.

New Los Angeles ADU Laws for 2025

Just in time for 2025, here are some new and existing updates for ADU laws in Los Angeles.

• Permitting Process: The city of Los Angeles is introducing simplified and streamlined permitting processes to make ADU development easier. This is in an effort to boost more affordable housing and address the housing shortage in Los Angeles.
• Parking: Parking requirements may be further relaxed for ADUs near public transit, which allows for more opportunities for ADUs to be constructed and rented out.
• Size: More to come on this, but there may be an adjustment to the size requirements for JADUs in certain circumstances, allowing for slightly larger units.
• Green Building Initiatives: Energy-efficient enhancements, such as solar panels and high-end energy-efficient windows, may be eligible for rebates or incentives from the government.

These are just a few of the updates we’ve seen so far, but we expect some additional laws and regulations to come out throughout the year. The government is focused on addressing housing shortages in Los Angeles, and loosening regulations on ADUs will allow homeowners to build more and more affordable housing.

Construct a Junior ADU in Los Angeles With Avenue Remodeling

As a distinguished remodeling company in Los Angeles, Avenue Remodeling is ready to help you with your next JADU project. We provide our services to Los Angeles and the surrounding areas and have helped countless homeowners transform their space, skyrocket their home’s value, and generate extra income.

Why choose Avenue Remodeling?

• Expertise: Our team understands the complexities of JADU construction and ensures your project is completed efficiently.
• Personalized Service: We work closely with you to design a JADU that fits your needs and budget.
• Compliance: We handle all permits and ensure your JADU meets Los Angeles’ regulations.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream ADU or JADU, reach out to us today to see how we can transform your home. Let’s bring your vision to life.

FAQs About Junior ADU Los Angeles

Here are some top questions we get about building a junior accessory dwelling unit in Los Angeles.

Can a JADU have its own bathroom?

Yes, a JADU can have its own bathroom. While it is not required to provide a separate bathroom, it may be a good option to attract renters. The JADU bathroom can be a shared bathroom with the primary residence.

What is the minimum size for an ADU in Los Angeles?

The minimum size for an ADU in Los Angeles is 150 square feet. Remember, the maximum size for a JADU is 500 square feet.

How many bedrooms can an ADU have in California?

An ADu in California can have multiple bedrooms as long as it complies with regulations and zoning requirements, as well as the size requirements.

Can you build a 2 story ADU in Los Angeles?

Yes, 2 story ADUs are allowed in Los Angeles as long as they meet height restrictions and other zoning regulations.

How much is a permit for an ADU in California?

The cost for an ADU permit in California can vary, but generally will be $1,000+ depending on the size, scope, and complexity of the project.