Accessory Dwelling Unit Planning, Design, and Permitting Services
Central Coast ADU specializes in helping homeowners navigate the process of building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), converting a garage, or remodeling their home. Their services cover everything from initial planning and design through to permit processing, ensuring clients have construction-ready plans and approved permits in hand — giving them the freedom to shop for the best contractor to suit their budget.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a small residential unit on a permanent foundation that provides additional housing on an existing legal lot alongside a primary dwelling unit. Commonly referred to as granny flats, tiny homes, or cottages, ADUs come in several forms:
- Attached ADU – A secondary unit connected directly to the primary dwelling unit.
- Detached ADU – A stand-alone structure separate from the main home.
- Garage Conversion – An attached or detached garage converted into a separate living unit.
- Internal Conversion – One or more rooms within the primary home converted into a self-contained unit.
Each ADU includes its own living and sleeping areas, kitchen, and bathroom. Size regulations may vary depending on the local municipality.
Why Build an ADU?
Many homeowners today face the challenge of accommodating additional family members while still maintaining their own private living space. Others are looking to generate rental income without the high cost of purchasing a second property. Building an ADU on an existing lot is an ideal and cost-effective solution. The benefits include:
- Housing – Provide comfortable accommodation for elderly parents, young adult children, or visiting guests.
- Income – Generate rental income by leasing the unit as a long-term rental, vacation home, or Airbnb.
- Property Value – Instantly increase the overall value of the property.
What Their ADU Services Include
Central Coast ADU guides clients through every stage of the ADU process, handling the details so homeowners can stay informed without being overwhelmed. Their service includes:
- Planning – Their team meets with clients to discuss budget, goals, and needs, outlining the full ADU process from start to finish. A property visit is conducted to take measurements and begin the design phase.
- Design – Working closely with clients, they develop complete floor plans for the ADU. Clients may also choose to work with an interior conceptual design team to create a 3D floor plan. Both hard and digital copies of plans are provided.
- Permitting – Clients cover the permit fees, and Central Coast ADU handles the rest. They complete all paperwork, submit the necessary forms, and follow up with the relevant authorities until plans are fully approved.
Upon completion of their services, clients receive construction-ready plans and full permits, along with referrals for financing and contractor options. Importantly, there is no obligation to use any partner companies — clients are free to hire whichever ADU contractor best fits their needs and budget.
Unlike most contractors who subcontract design work and act as a middleman, Central Coast ADU allows clients to communicate directly with their ADU designer and permitting team. This direct approach ensures plans and permits are completed on schedule and to the client's satisfaction.