You may think that accessory dwelling units already had enough names.. ADU, granny flat, in-law suite, casita, the list goes on.. So what the heck is a JADU?

We’re here to help!

The definition of JADU was also updated to be more lenient. JADUs previously could only be created from the conversion of existing bedroom space. That’s not the case anymore.

What is a JADU?

  • Size – 500 sq. ft. max
  • Location – Must be within a proposed or existing single-family dwelling or accessory structure, such as a garage or carport. (Note that the City of LA only allows attached garages!)
  • Expansion – May include an expansion of up to 150 sq. ft. beyond the footprint of the existing accessory structure, but this expansion is limited to accommodating ingress and egress.
  • Separate Entry – Exterior access (a separate entrance for the JADU) is required from the proposed or existing single-family dwelling.
  • Parking – No parking required for a JADU.
  • Bathroom – May have a separate bathroom or shared with the single-family dwelling.
  • Kitchen – Must meet “Efficiency Kitchen” requirements:
    • The required kitchen sink (16”x16” max.) should have a small drain line (1.5” diameter max.)
    • No appliances that require natural or propane gas.
    • A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the JADU.
    • Appliances that do not require electrical service greater than 120 volts.

A JADU is a legally rentable unit.

So you can put an ADU and a JADU on the property and rent them both out. However, the owner-occupancy is required for the JADU. This is definitely something we hope will change in the future.

You may be thinking — well, wait! Owner Occupancy was banned from 2020-2025 under the new ADU laws. You’d be correct, except it only applies to ADUs, not JADUs.

Here’s where the owner-occupancy means:

JADUs Require owner-occupancy in the single-family residence in which the junior accessory dwelling unit will be permitted. The owner may reside in either the remaining portion of the structure or the newly created junior accessory dwelling unit. Owner-occupancy shall not be required if the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.

That section goes on to talk about deed restriction, which will also apply to your ADU.

Require the recordation of a deed restriction, which shall run with the land, shall be filed with the permitting agency, and shall include both of the following:

  • A prohibition on the sale of the junior accessory dwelling unit separate from the sale of the single-family residence, including a statement that the deed restriction may be enforced against future purchasers.
  • A restriction on the size and attributes of the junior accessory dwelling unit that conforms with this section.

Replacement Parking is Not Required for JADUs

No jurisdiction can require replacement parking for a garage conversion. Additionally, JADUs are exempt from all parking requirements!

Need Help Getting Your Project Started?

Reach out! We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the rules and regulations and can get your design started with an experienced and knowledgeable team. For more details, call 1-888-457-7746.