ADU Construction in Los Angeles County & the San Fernando Valley
Safeway Construction is your full-service ADU builder serving 13+ cities across Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley. We design, permit, and build accessory dwelling units that add living space, rental income, and long-term value to your property. From detached guest houses to garage conversions and SB9 lot splits, our team manages every step so you don't have to.
Los Angeles County ADU Rules at a Glance
Key development standards for building an ADU in Los Angeles County and the City of Los Angeles. Rules vary between LA City neighborhoods and independent cities.
1,200 sf
Max Size
4 ft side/rear
Setbacks
16 ft detached
Height
Generally none
Parking
No minimum
Lot Size
1 ADU + 1 JADU
ADUs Per Lot
All residential
Zones
Yes
Rental Allowed
Yes
SB9 Eligible
Your Los Angeles County ADU Builder
Safeway Construction specializes in building accessory dwelling units across Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley. Whether you want a standalone guest house in your backyard, a unit attached to your existing home, or a full garage conversion, we have the expertise to deliver a high-quality ADU that meets your goals and your budget. Our design-build approach means you work with one team from initial concept through move-in day.
Most San Fernando Valley neighborhoods — including Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Canoga Park, and West Hills — are part of the City of Los Angeles. These areas follow LA City ADU regulations and use the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) permit process. Other LA County areas like Calabasas, Agoura Hills, and Santa Clarita are independent cities with their own building departments and slightly different rules. We know both systems inside out.
With over 20 years of residential construction experience and a 5.0-star rating on Google, Safeway Construction has earned the trust of homeowners throughout Los Angeles County. We bring that same commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction to every ADU project.
How LA County ADU Permits Work
San Fernando Valley Neighborhoods (City of Los Angeles)
Neighborhoods like Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Canoga Park, and West Hills are part of the City of Los Angeles. Permits go through the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) online portal. The typical process includes:
- •Initial consultation and property evaluation to confirm ADU eligibility
- •Preparation of architectural plans, engineering documents, and specifications
- •Submission of application and supporting documents to LADBS via their online system
- •Plan review and revisions (typically 15-30 days for ADUs in LA City)
- •Permit issuance and construction can begin immediately upon approval
- •Final inspection and sign-off by LADBS upon project completion
Independent LA County Cities (Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Santa Clarita)
Independent cities have their own building departments and permit processes. While the steps are similar, timelines and specific requirements may vary. We have established relationships with building departments across all LA County cities we serve and understand local nuances.
- •Each city has its own parking requirements, height limits, and setback rules
- •Permit review timelines vary (typically 20-45 days depending on city)
- •We navigate city-specific requirements so you don't have to
Pro Tip:
Not sure if your property is in LA City or an independent city? We determine your jurisdiction during the free consultation. This affects permit timeline, costs, and rules. A quick check saves weeks of confusion.
Types of ADUs We Build
We build every type of ADU allowed under California law. Each option has different costs, timelines, and benefits depending on your property and goals.
Detached ADU
A standalone structure built separately from your main home. Perfect for a guest house, rental unit, or multigenerational living space. Offers complete privacy with its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area.
Attached ADU
An addition connected directly to your existing home, sharing at least one wall. An efficient way to add living space without building a separate structure. Integrates seamlessly with your home's existing architecture and utilities.
Garage Conversion
Transform your existing garage into a fully functional living space. One of the most cost-effective ADU options because the basic structure is already in place. We handle structural upgrades, insulation, plumbing, electrical, and finishing.
Junior ADU (JADU)
Built within the existing footprint of your home with a separate entrance and small cooking facility. The most affordable way to create an independent living unit. Can be built alongside a standard ADU for maximum rental income.
SB9 Lot Split
California's SB9 (HOME Act) allows you to split your single-family lot into two separate parcels. Each parcel can have up to two housing units — potentially four units on what was one lot. Eligibility varies by city and zone.
ADU + JADU Combo
California law allows both a standard ADU and a Junior ADU on the same single-family property. Your main home, a detached ADU in the backyard, and a JADU within the home — all on one lot. Maximizes rental income and property value.
Popular ADU Sizes & Pricing
Choose the ADU size that fits your property and budget. Prices reflect custom-built units across Los Angeles County, including design, permits, and construction.
Studio ADU
400 sq ft
1-Bedroom ADU
600 sq ft
$160K - $240K
Separate bedroom, full kitchen, living area, in-unit laundry hookup
Get Estimate2-Bedroom ADU
900 sq ft
$200K - $300K
Two bedrooms, full kitchen, living/dining area, storage, laundry
Get EstimateGarage Conversion
400 - 600 sq ft
$90K - $150K
Uses existing structure, most cost-effective, no new foundation needed
Get EstimateHow ADU Construction Works
From your first call to handing over the keys, here is exactly what to expect when you build an ADU with Safeway Construction.
Free Consultation
We visit your property, assess the site, discuss your goals, and evaluate what your lot allows under California state law and LA County or LA City regulations.
Design & Plans
Our team creates architectural drawings and 3D renderings of your ADU. You approve the design before we move forward.
Permits
We prepare and submit all permit applications to the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) or the appropriate independent city building department. We handle plan check and revisions.
Construction
Foundation to finish, our crew builds your ADU. Regular progress updates, clean job site, and on-time completion.
Final Inspection & Handover
City inspector signs off. We do a final walkthrough with you, address any punch list items, and hand over the keys.
Why Choose Safeway for Your ADU
LA County & City of LA Permit Expertise
We navigate both the LA City (LADBS) permit process and independent city requirements. We know the rules, timelines, and decision-makers in every jurisdiction we serve.
Design-Build Under One Roof
From initial design concepts and 3D renderings to construction and final walkthrough, everything is managed by one team. This eliminates miscommunication, keeps your project on budget, and streamlines the timeline.
Full-Service From Plans to Keys
We handle every aspect of the ADU permitting process — from architectural plans and engineering documents to filing applications and coordinating inspections. You never have to set foot in a planning office.
20+ Years, 5.0 Stars
Over two decades of residential construction experience. Licensed, insured, and rated 5.0 stars on Google. We bring that same commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction to every ADU project.
ADU Construction Cost Ranges
ADU costs depend on type, size, finishes, and site conditions. Here are typical price ranges for projects across Los Angeles County. Get a personalized estimate in 2 minutes at our free cost calculator.
Garage Conversion
Most cost-effective
$90K - $150K
Junior ADU
Within existing home
$60K - $100K
Attached ADU
Shares wall with home
$150K - $250K
Detached ADU
Standalone structure
$200K - $350K
Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles County ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles County?
ADU construction costs in Los Angeles County vary by type, size, and finishes. Garage conversions typically range from $90,000 to $150,000. Junior ADUs built within existing homes cost $60,000 to $100,000. Attached ADUs generally run $150,000 to $250,000, and detached ADUs range from $200,000 to $350,000. LA City permit fees are generally lower than some independent cities. Use our free cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your property in 2 minutes.
What areas of Los Angeles County do you serve?
We serve 13+ cities across Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley, including Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Canoga Park, West Hills, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, and Santa Clarita. Many of these neighborhoods (Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Canoga Park, West Hills) are part of the City of Los Angeles and use the LADBS permit process. Others like Calabasas, Agoura Hills, and Santa Clarita have independent city building departments.
How does the LA City ADU permit process work?
Most San Fernando Valley neighborhoods are part of the City of Los Angeles and go through the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). The process begins with an initial development consultation to confirm your property qualifies. You then submit architectural plans, engineering documents, and application materials through the LADBS online portal. The department reviews your application (typically 15-30 days), and if approved, you receive a building permit. After construction, a final inspection occurs. Safeway Construction handles all permit preparation and coordination with LADBS, eliminating the need for you to navigate the process yourself.
Can I rent out my ADU in Los Angeles?
Yes, California state law allows homeowners to rent out ADUs as long-term rentals. There is no owner-occupancy requirement in LA County or the City of Los Angeles for detached ADUs or attached ADUs. Short-term rentals like Airbnb may be allowed in some LA County cities but are restricted or prohibited in others — regulations vary. Safeway Construction can help you understand what rental options are permitted in your specific neighborhood.
What is the maximum ADU size in Los Angeles County?
California state law allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet on most residential lots. Attached ADUs may be limited to 50 percent of the existing home or 1,200 square feet, whichever is less. Junior ADUs are capped at 500 square feet. Most LA County cities and LA City follow these state maximums. Setback requirements are typically 4 feet from side and rear property lines. We evaluate your property to help you build the largest ADU your lot allows under LA County or LA City rules.
Does Los Angeles County allow SB9 lot splits?
Yes, SB9 (the California HOME Act) applies to properties in Los Angeles County, including LA City neighborhoods and independent cities like Calabasas and Santa Clarita. SB9 allows homeowners to split a single-family lot into two parcels. Each parcel can then have up to two units, potentially allowing four units on one lot. SB9 applies to most single-family zoned properties not in historic districts, fire hazard zones, or environmentally sensitive areas. Each new parcel must be at least 1,200 square feet. Eligibility varies by location — we can evaluate whether your property qualifies.
What is the CalHFA ADU Grant Program?
The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) ADU Grant Program provides up to $40,000 to eligible homeowners for pre-development costs including architectural plans, permits, site preparation, soil testing, and impact fees. This grant can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses before construction begins. Safeway Construction can help you understand your eligibility and navigate the application process. The program is first-come, first-served, so early action is important.
What is the difference between LA City and independent city ADU rules?
Most San Fernando Valley neighborhoods (Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Porter Ranch, Canoga Park, West Hills) are part of the City of Los Angeles and follow LA City ADU regulations, which are generally straightforward and use the LADBS permit process. Independent cities like Calabasas, Agoura Hills, and Santa Clarita have their own building departments and may have different requirements regarding parking, setbacks, and height limits. It is critical to know which jurisdiction your property falls under — we help you determine this during your initial consultation.
ADU Construction by Los Angeles County City
Serving 13 cities and neighborhoods across Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley.
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