Build backyard homes with the premier ADU Contractor in Pasadena.

As a dedicated ADU contractor in Pasadena, we build custom backyard units and garage conversions. We handle design, permits, and construction under one contract.

4.9★Google Reviews
LicensedCA Contractor
200+ADUs Built
15+ YrsIn Business

About Our Team

Expert ADU Contractor in Pasadena

If you want to build an accessory dwelling unit, partnering with a licensed ADU contractor in Pasadena ensures your project meets all local zoning guidelines from day one. Pasadena offers excellent lot and zoning conditions across the San Gabriel Valley, with large rear yard spaces and detached garages that are prime candidates for conversion. Our team manages your entire project under a single contract, including architectural plans, local permits, and complete construction.

Many Pasadena homes, particularly Craftsman bungalows and post-war ranches on 7,000 to 15,000 square foot lots, have significant untapped space. Homeowners looking to add value or secure rental income can hire a dedicated Adu builder in Pasadena to build a custom detached cottage. Our in-house team oversees the entire Adu contraction in Pasadena, navigating city plan checks and historic district reviews to ensure a seamless build.

Learn About Our Team
ADU Build LA construction crew supervisor in Pasadena
ADU Build LA framing and carpentry team in Pasadena

What We Do

ADU Services from a Los Angeles Design-Build Team

From feasibility through final inspection, one ADU builder handles your full scope so timelines and costs stay clear.

ADU Plans & Design

Plan your project with dedicated ADU builders Los Angeles homeowners trust for faster approvals, buildability, and rental value.

01.

ADU Plans & Design

ADU Permits & Approvals

Our team acts as the expert ADU contractor Los Angeles cities work with daily, handling all submissions and correction responses.

02.

ADU Permits & Approvals

Detached ADU Construction

Build ADU space with one accountable team managing construction quality, schedule, and trade coordination from start to final inspection.

03.

Detached ADU Construction

Why Choose Us

Your Dedicated ADU Contractor in Pasadena

We are not a generalist builder that occasionally takes on backyard units. As a dedicated ADU contractor in Pasadena, our crews construct secondary units full-time. This focus guarantees consistent craftsmanship, predictable timelines, and a single point of contact from first concept to final inspection.

  • Dedicated project manager assigned at contract signing
  • Weekly written progress updates throughout the build
  • Self-performed core trades, with no hand-offs to unknown crews
  • All work inspected by the city at every required phase
  • Certificate of occupancy obtained before project closeout
  • 1-year workmanship warranty on all completed construction
200+
ADUs Built
Across Pasadena Area
15+
Years Building ADUs
Every type and size
4.9★
Google Rating
From verified homeowners
1yr
Warranty Included
On all completed work

Build Process

Our Process as Your ADU Contractor in Pasadena

From site prep to the final details, we manage every stage of your detached ADU construction under a single contract.

01

Site Prep

We grade the site, dig utility trenches, run primary sewer and electrical lines, and pour the concrete foundation.

02

Framing & Envelope

We frame the walls and roof structure, install energy-efficient windows, and apply weatherproofing and roofing.

03

Rough-Ins

Our in-house trades install plumbing lines, electrical wiring, and the high-efficiency HVAC system.

04

Finishes

We insulate, install drywall, paint, fit cabinetry, lay flooring, mount fixtures, and complete the final municipal inspection.

Permits & Zoning

ADU Permitting in Pasadena

What Pasadena homeowners need to know before starting an ADU project.

City of Pasadena Planning & Development Department
ADUs in Pasadena are permitted through the City of Pasadena Planning and Development Department. Pasadena has aligned its municipal code with California's ADU laws and allows ADUs on most residential lots throughout the city.
Historic Overlay & Design Review Districts
Pasadena has numerous historic and character-rich neighborhoods, including Bungalow Heaven, the Prospect Park area, and Old Pasadena-adjacent streets. Structures in these areas may require Design Commission review to ensure compatibility with existing neighborhood character. We've successfully permitted ADUs in all of Pasadena's major historic areas.
Garage Conversions
Pasadena's large lot sizes frequently include detached garages that are prime candidates for conversion. Garage conversions generally avoid the design scrutiny applied to new structures and move through permitting faster, often at significantly lower cost.
Permit Timeline
Standard ADU permitting in Pasadena takes 10 to 20 weeks from submission. Projects in historic overlay areas requiring Design Commission review may add 4 to 6 weeks. We prepare thorough submissions and track every deadline to minimize delays.
Pricing in Pasadena

ADUs Starting From $150,000

Pasadena ADU costs are competitive with the broader San Gabriel Valley market. Garage conversions and JADUs offer the most cost-effective entry points for homeowners. All-inclusive of design, engineering, permitting, and full construction.

  • Design, architecture and engineering included
  • Permitting and city approval management included
  • Full construction and site work included
  • Final inspection and certificate of occupancy included
Get a Custom Estimate
Junior ADU (JADU)
Interior conversion
$60,000 to $100,000
Garage Conversion ADU
Detached or attached garage
$80,000 to $145,000
Attached ADU
Addition to primary home
$120,000 to $210,000
Detached ADU
New standalone structure
$150,000 to $270,000

* All-inclusive pricing. Final cost depends on scope and site conditions.

Custom Architecture & Floor Plans

ADU Styles & Models Built in Pasadena

Explore our most requested detached and conversion floor plans, engineered for California Title 24 compliance and maximum rental yield.

Browse all floor plans
Modern Detached Studio ADU in Pasadena
High Rental Yield
400 sq ft · Studio · 1 Bath

Modern Detached Studio ADU

High-efficiency detached studio with full kitchen, walk-in shower, and private patio access, optimized for Pasadena lots.

One-Bedroom Backyard Suite in Pasadena
Most Requested
650 sq ft · 1 Bed · 1 Bath

One-Bedroom Backyard Suite

Spacious one-bedroom with separate living room, in-unit laundry, and private exterior entrance tailored for Pasadena.

Two-Bedroom Family ADU in Pasadena
Dual Master Suite
1,000 sq ft · 2 Bed · 2 Bath

Two-Bedroom Family ADU

Dual-suite architectural ADU ideal for multigenerational families or premium long-term rental income in Pasadena.

Free Estimate

Get a Free Estimate for Your Pasadena Property

We will assess your property, review your Pasadena zoning, and provide a detailed cost and timeline estimate, at no charge, with no obligation.

  • Pasadena-specific feasibility review for your lot
  • Realistic all-inclusive cost range for your ADU type
  • Timeline from design through certificate of occupancy
  • Response within 1 business day

Also serving nearby

ArcadiaSierra MadreMonroviaSan MarinoAlhambraTemple City

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Common Questions

ADU Questions for Pasadena Homeowners

Can I build an ADU in Pasadena's historic districts?
Yes, ADUs can be built in Pasadena's historic areas, including Bungalow Heaven and other designated neighborhoods, but new structures are subject to Design Commission review for compatibility with neighborhood character. Garage conversions are typically less restricted and move faster. Our team has navigated Pasadena's historic review process many times.
Is a garage conversion a good ADU option in Pasadena?
Absolutely. Pasadena has more detached garages per capita than almost any other LA-area city, and most are prime ADU candidates. Garage conversions leverage the existing structure, often complete construction in 10 to 14 weeks post-permit, and cost significantly less than a new build. It's the most popular ADU path for Pasadena homeowners.
How long does ADU permitting take in Pasadena?
Standard ADU permitting in Pasadena takes 10 to 20 weeks. Projects in historic overlay areas requiring Design Commission approval may add 4 to 6 weeks to that timeline. Garage conversions tend to move the fastest. We manage all communications with Pasadena's building department throughout the process.
What rental income can I expect from a Pasadena ADU?
Studio ADUs in Pasadena typically achieve $1,800 to $2,500/month. One-bedroom units often rent for $2,200 to $3,000/month. Annual gross rental income of $22,000 to $36,000 is realistic with a well-designed Pasadena ADU. Properties near Caltech often command a premium from academic and research renters.
Do I need to add parking when building an ADU in Pasadena?
Under California state law, parking replacement is not required for ADUs built within one-half mile of public transit, including the Pasadena Metro A Line (formerly Gold Line). If your property is further from transit, you may need to provide replacement space. We will review your lot's proximity to transit during our property assessment.
What is the maximum size allowed for an ADU in Pasadena?
Pasadena allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet. Attached ADUs are limited to 50 percent of the primary home's living area or 1,200 square feet, whichever is smaller. Junior ADUs built within existing space are capped at 500 square feet.
How do Pasadena setback requirements affect where I can build?
New detached ADUs require minimum side and rear setbacks of 4 feet. There are no setbacks required for converting an existing garage in the same footprint. Front setbacks must comply with the primary home zone rules.
Can I build both an ADU and a JADU on my Pasadena property?
Yes, single-family lots in Pasadena are generally permitted to build one detached ADU and one Junior ADU. This allows you to create two separate rental spaces on your property, maximizing your monthly cash flow.
Does Pasadena Water and Power require separate utility meters for an ADU?
Pasadena Water and Power does not require separate water or electric meters for an ADU, but many homeowners opt to install them to simplify billing for tenants. We handle all utility applications and coordinating with PWP during construction.
Are there school impact fees for ADUs in Pasadena?
Under state rules, ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from school impact fees. For units larger than 750 square feet, the Pasadena Unified School District charges a square foot fee. We calculate all potential fees during the design phase.

Need help planning your ADU project?

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Why ADU Build LA

ADU Expertise You Can Count On

We have built ADUs across Pasadena and the surrounding area, navigating local zoning, permit processes, and site conditions that generalist contractors do not know.

Planning an ADU in Pasadena?

Design your ADU in our interactive configurator, choose type, size, style, and finishes. Get a matching floor plan and budget estimate before you talk to anyone.

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Build Your ADU in Pasadena

Join over 200 Los Angeles homeowners who have added rental income and lasting property value with an ADU from ADU Build LA. Your free estimate is the first step.

Learn about our process as a full-service ADU design-build company serving all of Los Angeles County.