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HomeServicesJunior ADU (JADU)

Common project type

Junior ADU (JADU)

A junior ADU is a distinct planning path, not simply a small detached model. Start with the existing home and proposed living arrangement. Ask the responsible jurisdiction to confirm the classification and current conditions before designing around a size or occupancy assumption.

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Before a proposal

Three things must become clear.

  1. 01Is this the right project type?
  2. 02What does this property require?
  3. 03What is included in writing?

A service page is an orientation tool—not a permit decision, survey, construction document, final price, or guaranteed schedule.

Choose the right classification

Compare a JADU with an internal remodel and a full ADU based on how the space will be used. The legal classification may affect the layout and owner responsibilities; a service page cannot determine it for the property.

  • Which part of the existing building is proposed for the unit?
  • What independent living functions are intended?
  • Which current occupancy or recorded-document conditions apply?

Make compact space usable

Draw furniture, circulation, storage and cooking space inside measured dimensions. Discuss whether the bathroom arrangement is compatible with the proposed approval path and household needs.

  • How will residents enter and reach the bathroom?
  • Which rooms or circulation paths change in the main home?
  • Where can ventilation and service connections be coordinated?

Account for changes to the main residence

An internal conversion can affect occupied rooms, systems and privacy. Include those impacts in the scope rather than presenting the work as an isolated miniature home.

  • Which existing rooms must remain functional during work?
  • What separation and life-safety details need professional design?
  • Who prepares and verifies any required recorded documents?

Questions before choosing this scope

Is the Studio 400 concept a ready-made JADU?

No. The catalog shows detached illustrative concepts. A JADU proposal starts from an eligible existing-building context and the authority’s current requirements, not a catalog square-footage match.

Where should I confirm JADU rules?

Start with the California HCD ADU resources and the responsible local agency. Confirm the rules for the specific proposal rather than relying on an undated summary or a rule copied from another city.

Resources for the next decision

These are planning resources, not a finding about your property. Confirm current requirements with the responsible agency.

  • California HCD ADU resources and handbook
  • Build a preliminary cost scenario
  • How cold-formed steel framing is coordinated

The useful next decision

Confirm the property before committing to junior adu (jadu).

A preliminary property review can identify available records, missing information, map corrections, and an early fit direction. Professional review still controls final design and approvals.

Have a specific property or question?

Share the address and intended use so the conversation starts with the correct context.

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Related services

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Service direction

Garage Conversion

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Service direction

Attached ADU

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Service direction

ADU Design and Permitting

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Local planning guides

These reviewed agency-resource guides do not confirm service availability. Confirm current rules, property records, and agency requirements for the actual address.

  • San Jose
  • San Francisco

Ready for a useful first answer?

Start with your property, then talk through the details.

Review a preliminary site fit or request a property-specific conversation with the ADU California team.

AADU.zoneSteel-framed backyard homes

Property review, design, engineering coordination, permitting, steel framing, and construction support for California homeowners.

Preliminary online results are planning guidance, not a permit decision or site survey.

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