ADU & accessory dwelling units
What is a JADU?
A JADU (junior accessory dwelling unit) is a second living unit carved from inside an existing single-family home — capped at 500 sqft, with an efficiency kitchen and either a private or shared bath. JADUs require owner occupancy of the property, unlike a standard ADU.
JADUs are the cheapest legal path to a second unit because they reuse existing conditioned space. Typical California build cost: $35,000–$95,000 versus $200,000+ for a detached ADU.
Owner-occupancy of either the primary home or the JADU is mandatory and recorded against the deed. Short-term rental is prohibited in most jurisdictions, but long-term leasing is allowed.
Keep reading
Related questions
- • Can I rent a JADU short-term?
- • Does a JADU need its own utility meter?
- • What's the difference between a JADU and a guest house?
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