An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained housing unit built on the same lot as a single-family or multi-family property. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, and living space - either attached to the main home, detached in the backyard, or converted from an existing garage.
In Los Angeles, ADU demand has surged dramatically since California reformed its ADU laws starting in 2017. New legislation eliminated many restrictive zoning barriers - reducing required setbacks, removing parking minimums near transit, and streamlining owner-occupancy requirements.
The result: LA homeowners can now add a rentable, livable unit to most residential lots without altering the neighborhood streetscape. It's new housing inventory and new income - without moving or selling.