ADU Construction in Ventura County
Safeway Construction is your full-service ADU builder serving all 7 cities across Ventura County. We design, permit, and build accessory dwelling units in Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Camarillo, Oxnard, and Oak Park. From detached guest houses to garage conversions and SB9 lot splits, our team manages every step so you don't have to.
Ventura County ADU Rules at a Glance
Key development standards for building an ADU in Ventura County. Local city rules may add additional requirements — we help you navigate all of them.
1,200 sf
Max Size
4 ft side/rear
Setbacks
16 ft detached
Height
0-1 spaces
Parking
No minimum
Lot Size
1 ADU + 1 JADU
ADUs Per Lot
All residential
Zones
Yes
Rental Allowed
Yes
SB9 Eligible
Your Ventura County ADU Builder
Safeway Construction specializes in building accessory dwelling units across all of Ventura County. Whether you want a standalone guest house in your backyard in Simi Valley, a unit attached to your existing home in Thousand Oaks, a full garage conversion in Moorpark, or an SB9 lot split in Camarillo, we have the expertise to deliver a high-quality ADU that meets your goals and your budget.
Each city in Ventura County has its own permit process, building codes, and local requirements. Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Camarillo, Oxnard, and Oak Park all operate independently. Our deep experience navigating permits across every VC municipality means you work with a team that understands the specific timeline, requirements, and contacts at your local building department.
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 Ventura County. We bring that same commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction to every ADU project.
How Ventura County ADU Permits Work
ADU permits in Ventura County go through individual city building departments, not the county. Here's what to expect in the cities where we build most frequently.
Simi Valley
Simi Valley processes ADU permits through the Community Development Department. Typical timeline: 60–90 days from submission. Plan checks are thorough but consistent. Once approved, construction permits are straightforward.
Thousand Oaks
Thousand Oaks uses the OpenGov online portal for permit submissions and tracking. Timeline: 8–12 weeks. The portal provides real-time updates. Plan checks may take multiple rounds, but communication is transparent.
Unincorporated Ventura County
Properties outside city limits go through the County of Ventura Building & Safety Department. Timeline: 2–4 months. Processes vary by location. We manage all county submissions.
Moorpark
Moorpark permits are processed through the Planning & Building Department. Timeline: 60–90 days. Local requirements include specific architectural standards. We have extensive experience here.
Newbury Park
Newbury Park Community Development handles ADU permits. Timeline: 60–90 days. Setback rules may be stricter than state law in some areas. Our team reviews requirements early.
Camarillo, Oxnard & Oak Park
Each city has its own permitting process. Typical timelines: 8–12 weeks. We maintain relationships with building staff in all three cities and navigate their unique requirements.
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.
ADU Construction Costs in Ventura County
ADU costs depend on type, size, finishes, and site conditions. Here are typical price ranges for projects across Ventura 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
Why Choose Safeway for Your Ventura County ADU
Ventura County Permit Expertise
We know the specific processes, timelines, and staff at every building department across Ventura County. Whether you're in Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, or unincorporated VC, we navigate permits like locals.
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 — architectural plans, permit applications, inspections, construction, and final sign-off. You never have to coordinate between architects, contractors, and building departments.
20+ Years, 5.0 Stars
Over two decades of residential construction experience and a perfect 5.0-star Google rating. Homeowners trust us with their most important investments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ventura County ADU Construction
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Ventura County?
ADU construction costs in Ventura County vary by type and size. 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. Final pricing depends on unit size, finishes, site conditions, and local permit fees. Use our free cost calculator to get a personalized estimate for your property in 2 minutes.
What cities in Ventura County do you build ADUs in?
We serve all major cities across Ventura County, including Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Newbury Park, Camarillo, Oxnard, and Oak Park. Each city has its own permitting process and regulations, but we maintain expertise in building departments across all of Ventura County. If your city isn't listed, contact us directly at (805) 222-6544.
How long does ADU permitting take in Ventura County?
Permitting timelines vary by city. Simi Valley typically processes ADU permits in 60-90 days. Thousand Oaks uses their OpenGov portal and may take 8-12 weeks. Unincorporated Ventura County areas go through the County of Ventura Building & Safety Department and can take 2-4 months. Once permits are approved, construction usually takes 3-6 months depending on the ADU type and complexity.
Can I rent out my ADU in Ventura County?
Yes. California state law allows homeowners to rent out ADUs as long-term rentals, and Ventura County cities generally support this. Simi Valley allows ADU rentals with minimal restrictions. Thousand Oaks permits ADU rentals subject to local ordinances. Short-term rentals (Airbnb) rules vary by city — some allow them, others restrict them to primary residences. We help you understand what's permitted in your specific city.
What is the maximum ADU size in Ventura County?
California 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. Setback requirements are typically 4 feet from side and rear property lines. Specific maximums can vary by city — we evaluate your property and help you build the largest ADU your lot allows.
Does Ventura County allow SB9 lot splits?
Yes. SB9 (the California HOME Act) allows homeowners to split a single-family lot into two parcels in most of Ventura County. Each parcel can then have up to two units, potentially allowing four units on one lot. However, SB9 eligibility varies by city — some unincorporated areas and incorporated cities have restrictions related to historic districts, fire hazard zones, or environmentally sensitive areas. We can evaluate whether your property qualifies for SB9 in your specific location.
What is the CalHFA ADU Grant Program?
The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) ADU Grant Program provides up to $40,000 in grants to eligible homeowners for pre-development and soft costs — including architectural plans, engineering, permits, site prep, soil testing, and impact fees. You must be an owner-occupant and the property must be in California. Safeway Construction can help you navigate the application and use grant funds for planning and permitting costs.
Do I need an architect for a Ventura County ADU?
You need architectural plans to obtain a building permit in Ventura County. These must include floor plans, elevations, structural details, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC layouts. Safeway Construction handles all design as part of our design-build process — you work with one team from concept through construction, eliminating the need to hire and coordinate a separate architect.
ADU Guides & Resources
Learn more about ADU construction, costs, regulations, and financing in Ventura County.
ADU Construction by City in Ventura County
Looking for ADU construction in Los Angeles County?
View Los Angeles County ADU GuideNeed information about ADU construction across both counties?
Back to Main ADU HubReady to Start Your Remodel?
Two ways to get started — pick what works for you.
Request a Consultation
Fill out our form or call us. We'll get back to you within one business day.
Get an Instant Estimate
Use our AI tool to get a price range in 2 minutes. No phone call needed.
Try the Instant EstimatorFree. No sign-up required.