Custom Backyard House Construction In Los Angeles

We build fully permitted standalone backyard homes on solid foundations across Los Angeles. In addition, our licensed crews manage architecture, city permits, and ground-up construction.

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

About Our Team

Los Angeles Backyard House Builders On Real Foundations

Our team has built every custom backyard house across Los Angeles since 2009 with enduring structural integrity. In fact, we construct code-compliant tiny homes on permanent concrete foundations rather than temporary chassis trailers.

Many homeowners explore portable tiny homes on wheels as quick backyard additions. However, Los Angeles municipal codes require permanent foundations and Title 24 energy compliance. Unpermitted trailer homes risk heavy city code enforcement fines and forced removals. Instead, our dedicated trades build legal detached accessory dwelling units from 300 to 500 square feet. We connect permanent sewer laterals, water lines, and dedicated electrical subpanels directly. Consequently, your permitted living space adds verified equity and safe rental income to your property.

Learn About Our Team
ADU Build LA carpenters framing a permitted backyard house on a reinforced concrete slab
Construction superintendent reviewing site engineering plans for a small detached backyard house

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.

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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.

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Detached ADU Construction

Garage to ADU Conversion

Turn your garage into a legal rental unit with clear scope, practical ADU prices, and a faster path than most ground-up builds.

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Garage to ADU Conversion

Junior ADU (JADU)

Create a compliant Junior ADU inside your current footprint for a lower-cost entry point and flexible family or rental use.

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Junior ADU (JADU)

California ADU Grants & Financing

We help you check eligibility for the CalHFA $40,000 California ADU grant and pair it with the right construction loan for your project.

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California ADU Grants & Financing

Detached ADU Construction

Build a standalone detached accessory dwelling unit in Los Angeles. Our in-house crews manage custom design, LADBS permits, and complete ground-up construction.

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Detached ADU Construction

Prefab & Modular ADU Installation

Turnkey prefab ADU and modular construction in Los Angeles. We manage site engineering, foundations, crane installation, and utility hookups.

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Prefab & Modular ADU Installation

ADU Contractor

Hire a licensed ADU contractor in Los Angeles for architectural design, city permitting, and complete turnkey backyard construction.

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ADU Contractor

ADU Homes

Custom detached, attached, and garage conversion ADU homes built across Los Angeles County by licensed contractors.

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ADU Homes

Garage Apartment Construction

Build a new detached garage with an ADU apartment above in Los Angeles. We manage architectural plans, city permits, and ground-up construction.

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Garage Apartment Construction

Garage Apartment Plans

Custom permit-ready garage apartment plans and turnkey two-story ADU construction across Los Angeles.

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Garage Apartment Plans

Granny Flat

Build a custom granny flat in Los Angeles for aging parents. Accessible, single-story backyard suites with turnkey architectural and permit management.

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Granny Flat

ADU for Sale

Turnkey ADU for sale packages in Los Angeles including architectural plans, permits, foundation, and complete construction.

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ADU for Sale

Backyard House Construction

Build a permitted small backyard house in Los Angeles on a permanent foundation. We manage architectural plans, city permits, and ground-up construction.

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Backyard House Construction

House Plans With In Law Suite

Custom house plans with in law suite layouts and turnkey ADU construction for multi-generational Los Angeles homes.

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House Plans With In Law Suite

ADU Construction Process

Explore the complete ADU construction process in Los Angeles, from architectural design and LADBS permits to framing and certificate of occupancy.

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ADU Construction Process

Backyard Studio

Custom permitted backyard studio ADUs for home offices, creative spaces, and guest suites built in Los Angeles County.

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Backyard Studio

Why Choose ADU Build LA

Why Choose Our Dedicated ADU Construction Team

Building a compact backyard residence on a foundation requires precision engineering and tight site logistics. Because our crews focus solely on ADU builds, we coordinate micro-excavators and materials on narrow suburban lots. In addition, we provide guaranteed fixed-price contracts with zero unexpected change orders. Homeowners receive weekly photographic updates directly from their dedicated project superintendent.

  • Licensed, bonded, and insured California general contractor with full liability coverage
  • Over 200 permitted ADU projects completed across Los Angeles County
  • Permanent concrete slab foundations built to California building code standards
  • Guaranteed fixed-price construction contracts with zero hidden change orders
  • One-year workmanship warranty on every completed backyard home
  • Dedicated on-site project superintendent with weekly photo progress reports
200+
ADUs Completed
Across Los Angeles County
15+
Years in Business
Building since 2009
4.9★
Client Rating
Verified Google reviews
$150K
Starting Investment
Turnkey detached build

Construction Process

Our Four-Step Ground-Up Building Process

Our unified design-build method guides your project through four clear engineering phases. Therefore, you enjoy predictable schedules and verified inspections from foundation through final occupancy.

01

Site Prep & Foundation

First, our survey crew stakes property lines and verifies soil bearing capacity. Next, we excavate utility trenches and pour a reinforced monolithic concrete foundation slab on grade.

02

Framing & Weatherproofing

Then, our framing carpenters erect structural exterior walls, ceiling joists, and roof rafters. Furthermore, we install weather-resistant building wrap, high-performance roof underlayment, and Title 24 dual-pane windows.

03

Mechanical Rough-Ins & Utilities

Meanwhile, licensed electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians install underground sewer laterals, water supplies, and ductless heat pumps. After rough-in installation, city building inspectors verify all mechanical trades on site.

04

Interior Finishes & Handover

Finally, our finish team installs drywall, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, full tile showers, and luxury vinyl flooring. Once city officials complete final sign-offs, we hand you your certificate of occupancy.

Transparent Pricing

Transparent Backyard House Construction Pricing

We provide transparent fixed-price proposals with detailed line-item allowances before breaking ground. In fact, our turnkey packages cover custom architectural plans, structural engineering, LADBS permits, and complete construction.

  • Full architectural drafting, Title 24 energy calculations, and LADBS permit expediting
  • Engineered concrete slab foundation with soil excavation and structural steel rebar
  • Independent 200-amp electrical subpanel, plumbing connections, and ductless mini-split HVAC
  • Complete designer kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinets, and full bathroom

Final pricing reflects lot topography, trenching distances for sewer and power, and interior finish selections. However, we guarantee your contract price once plan check completes.

Free Estimate

Get a Free Estimate for Backyard House Construction

Tell us about your property and your goals. We'll review your site and provide a detailed cost and timeline estimate at no charge, with no obligation.

  • Property feasibility review at no cost
  • Realistic cost range based on your specific lot
  • Estimated timeline from design through occupancy
  • Response within 1 business day

No spam. No pressure. We serve homeowners across Los Angeles County.

Request Your Free Estimate

We'll be in touch within 1 business day.

We respond within 1 business day. No spam.

Common Questions

Backyard House Construction: Frequently Asked Questions

What Los Angeles homeowners ask most before starting an ADU project.

Is a backyard house legal in Los Angeles?
Yes, a backyard house is fully legal across Los Angeles when built as a permitted accessory dwelling unit. In fact, California state law guarantees single-family homeowners the right to construct at least one detached ADU. However, the city requires a permanent concrete foundation and compliance with residential building codes. The California HCD ADU Handbook confirms that permitted backyard cottages qualify as permanent residential structures. Our team handles every phase from architectural drafting to LADBS plan check approvals. Consequently, your backyard home provides safe, fully permitted living space that adds verified value.
What is the difference between a permitted backyard house and a tiny home on wheels?
A permitted backyard house sits on an engineered concrete slab foundation connected directly to city sewer, water, and power lines. In contrast, tiny homes on wheels operate as recreational vehicles or towable trailers. Los Angeles municipal zoning strictly prohibits living in unpermitted trailers or mobile campers on residential parcels. Furthermore, unpermitted mobile units cannot receive legal addresses, separate electric meters, or standard homeowner insurance policies. Instead, our team constructs permanent detached accessory homes between 300 and 500 square feet. As a result, your building passes all city inspections and commands premium long-term rental income.
How much does it cost to build a small backyard house in Los Angeles?
Turnkey construction for a permitted small backyard house typically starts around $150,000 for a 350 square foot detached studio. Meanwhile, larger one-bedroom layouts between 450 and 550 square feet generally range from $185,000 to $220,000. These investment figures cover architectural drawings, Title 24 energy compliance, foundation excavation, and complete interior finishes. In addition, our guaranteed fixed-price contracts protect your budget from unexpected mid-project cost spikes. You receive a complete modern kitchen, full tile bathroom, and energy-efficient ductless climate control. Overall, permanent construction generates far greater long-term property equity than non-compliant trailers.
What are the setback requirements for a detached backyard house in Los Angeles?
Under California AB 68 statutes, a detached backyard house requires four-foot side and rear property setbacks. However, front setback standards depend on your property's specific residential zoning designation. In addition, fire codes may require extra spacing from the main house. Our survey crews measure boundary lines and utility easements accurately during initial site evaluations. Next, our draftsmen position the footprint to optimize backyard privacy and natural sunlight. That way, your project breezes through municipal planning reviews without costly boundary disputes or redesign delays.
How long does the LADBS permitting and building process take?
Building a permitted backyard residence in Los Angeles generally requires seven to ten months from initial consultation to final occupancy. First, our architectural team spends four to six weeks drafting site plans, structural calculations, and Title 24 documentation. Next, the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, known as LADBS, reviews plans over ten to sixteen weeks. Once city officials approve building permits, ground-up construction takes approximately four to six months. Meanwhile, your dedicated superintendent manages daily trade workflows and schedules city inspection milestones. Finally, we coordinate final sign-offs to deliver your official certificate of occupancy.
Do I need to add extra parking on my property when building a backyard house?
You do not need to provide replacement vehicle parking when building a backyard house in Los Angeles County. In fact, California state law completely exempts accessory dwelling units located within one-half mile of public transit stops. Because many Los Angeles residential neighborhoods sit near bus lines or rail stations, parking mandates rarely apply. Furthermore, you do not need to expand your existing driveway or construct carports. The new backyard residence operates independently while preserving your existing driveway access. Therefore, you can convert unused yard space into a beautiful rental home without parking complications.
Can I rent out my backyard house to tenants in Los Angeles?
Yes, you can legally lease your permitted backyard house to long-term tenants across Los Angeles County. First, California removed owner-occupancy requirements for standard accessory dwelling units, giving property owners total leasing flexibility. Second, modern ADU rentals in Los Angeles currently command between $1,800 and $2,800 per month depending on neighborhood and finishes. In addition, our team installs independent subpanels and separate utility meters so tenants manage their own electrical and water usage. Soundproofing insulation between interior walls ensures complete privacy for both households. Thus, building a backyard rental creates a dependable monthly passive revenue stream.
Does a small backyard house require separate sewer and electrical utility connections?
A detached backyard residence requires dedicated utility runs connected to your primary systems or municipal street mains. First, our plumbers trench underground sewer laterals connecting the new bathroom and kitchen to the main sewer line. Next, our licensed electricians install a 100-amp or 200-amp subpanel to supply power for induction cooktops and electric water heaters. In addition, Title 24 energy standards require energy-efficient mini-split heat pumps for heating and air conditioning. City inspectors review and approve each rough-in line before we close interior walls. Consequently, your secondary residence operates reliably with safe, code-compliant utilities.
Can I build multiple units using California SB 9 on my single-family lot?
California SB 9 enables eligible homeowners in single-family zones to split lots or construct up to two primary residential homes. However, standard California ADU legislation often provides a faster and more cost-effective approval pathway for adding a detached backyard house. Under standard ADU regulations, local planning departments must approve qualifying building plans within sixty days of submission. In addition, ADU projects bypass discretionary public hearings and costly municipal development impact fees for units under 750 square feet. Our zoning specialists analyze your parcel during our site consultation. Then, we recommend the optimal development path for your financial goals.

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Explore Further

Cities, Models & Projects

Discover where we build, which ADU models fit this service, and completed projects from our portfolio.

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Licensed Encino ADU Builder

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ADU Builder in Sherman Oaks

Licensed Sherman Oaks ADU Contractor

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ADU Builder in Culver City

Licensed Culver City ADU Contractor

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ADU Builder in San Fernando Valley

Licensed San Fernando Valley ADU Builder

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ADU Builder in Santa Monica

Licensed Santa Monica ADU Builder

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ADU Builder in Venice

Serving Venice

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ADU Builder in West Hollywood

Licensed ADU Contractor in West Hollywood

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ADU Builder in Torrance

Licensed Torrance ADU Contractor

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ADU Builder in Los Angeles

Licensed ADU Contractor in Los Angeles

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ADU Builder in Glendale

Serving Glendale

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ADU Builder in Long Beach

Licensed Long Beach ADU Contractor

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ADU Builder in El Segundo

Licensed South Bay ADU Builder

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ADU Builder in Woodland Hills

Licensed Woodland Hills ADU Builder

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ADU Model

2 Bed 750

Two private bedrooms, maximum rental income, and genuine multigenerational living space.

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ADU Model

Garage Conversion 450

Convert your existing garage into a fully permitted, income-generating ADU, providing the fastest and most affordable path.

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ADU Model

1 Bed 650

A spacious one-bedroom ADU with room to breathe, designed to attract quality long-term tenants.

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Want to See What Your ADU Could Look Like?

Our interactive configurator lets you choose type, size, finishes, and exterior style, showing you matching floor plans with a live budget estimate.

Plan your ADU

Start Planning Your New Backyard Home Today

Book a complimentary property assessment with our design team. We evaluate lot setbacks, utility routes, and feasibility for your new detached build.