We Have Custom Detached ADU Plans
We've successfully completed over 100+ projects recently, ensuring 100% client satisfaction, making it our largest portfolio in Detached ADU.
How Our Detached ADU Process Works
Free In-Home Consultation
We start with a no-cost visit and a feasibility check to see if your property qualifies for a detached ADU, and we answer your questions about planning, design and construction.
Design and Construction Documents
Our ADU designers know Los Angeles ADU rules and building codes. We design a backyard home that fits your lifestyle, then prepare full construction drawings, including blueprints, structural details and code notes.
Permit Approvals
We handle all permit paperwork and work directly with the building department through plan check. Having processed more than 100 detached ADU plans across Los Angeles, we know how to keep approvals moving.
What Is a Detached ADU?
A detached ADU is a separate, standalone home built in your backyard, apart from the main house. It has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom and living space, so it works as a fully independent residence. It is often called a backyard cottage or granny flat, and it is the most private type of ADU you can build.
Benefits of Building in Your Backyard
- Maximum privacy: no shared walls between you and your tenant or family members.
- More size flexibility: up to 1,200 square feet, no matter how big your main home is.
- Strong rental income: a standalone home with its own yard space rents well in Los Angeles.
- Flexible use: a home for aging parents, adult children, guests or a home office.
- Higher property value: a permitted second home adds real, usable square footage to your lot.
Detached ADU Rules in Los Angeles
California sets the main ADU rules, and Los Angeles follows them with a few local details. Here is what usually applies:
- Size: up to 1,200 square feet.
- Height: usually up to 16 feet, and up to 18 feet near major transit, plus a little extra to match your roof pitch.
- Setbacks: 4 feet from the side and rear property lines.
- Separate entrance: the unit needs its own exterior door, kitchen and bathroom.
- Parking: often not required, especially within half a mile of public transit.
- Owner occupancy: not required for a standard ADU.
Hillside, fire zone and coastal lots can add extra review, so we confirm the details for your address during the consultation. You can read the state’s rules in the California ADU handbook.
Detached ADU vs Attached ADU
Detached
- Stands on its own in the yard
- Most privacy between units
- Up to 1,200 square feet
- Needs open yard space
Attached
- Shares a wall with the main home
- Keeps more of your backyard
- Shorter utility runs
- Size tied to the main home
Compare your options with our attached ADU and garage conversion pages.
What Affects the Cost?
Cost depends on size, design, finishes and site conditions such as utility runs, grading and access to the backyard. During your free consultation, we walk your property and give you a clear estimate before any design work begins. For typical price ranges, read our guide to the cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles, and learn about ADU financing and returns or the benefits of building an ADU.
Detached ADU FAQs
What is the size limit in Los Angeles?
A detached ADU can be up to 1,200 square feet. Unlike an attached ADU, its size is not tied to the size of your main home.
How tall can it be?
Most single-story backyard ADUs can be up to 16 feet tall. Lots near major transit can often go to 18 feet, with a little extra height allowed to match the roof pitch of the main house.
Do I need to live on the property?
No. Owner occupancy is not required for a standard ADU in California, so you can rent out both the main home and the ADU.
Do I need to add parking?
Often not. Parking is not required for an ADU within half a mile of public transit, and in many other common situations.
How long does it take to build?
Design and permits usually take a few months, and construction often takes several more. Your timeline depends on size, site work and plan check.
Can I rent it out?
Yes. Long-term rentals of 30 days or more are allowed. Short-term rentals are generally not allowed for ADUs in Los Angeles.
Ready to build in your backyard? Book a free ADU consultation and we will tell you what your lot can hold.
Browse ADU Builder Service Areas by Region
Select your neighborhood to see local ADU rules, project ideas and how KN Remodeling builds in your area.
San Fernando Valley
Los Angeles & Westside
South Bay & Peninsula
Conejo Valley & Ventura County
Why Homeowners Trust KN Remodeling
Licensed ADU construction across Los Angeles, from first sketch to final inspection.
Expert Construction
Our ADU builders deliver careful framing, clean finishes and layouts that work for everyday living.
On-Time Delivery
We plan permits, inspections and materials up front, so your project stays on schedule without cutting corners.
Transparent Pricing
No unexpected costs, just clear and honest estimates upfront for your backyard home.
15+ Years of Experience
A proven record of custom ADUs and garage conversions built across Los Angeles.
Tailored Floor Plans
Backyard homes designed around your property layout, your budget and the way you live.
5-Star Rated
Trusted by homeowners on Google, Houzz and Yelp for quality ADU builds.
What Our Clients Are Saying
We are deeply honored by the feedback from our extensive list of over 100+ clients regarding our services.