JADU — Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a unit of no more than 500 square feet contained entirely within an existing single-family dwelling or its attached garage. JADUs require owner-occupancy and offer a low-cost way to add a second unit without new construction.
Floor Plan — JADU Within Existing Dwelling
Development Standards — Gov. Code § 65852.22
| Standard | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 500 sq ft | Hard cap; no exceptions |
| Location | Entirely within existing SFR or attached garage | No new construction; no detached structures |
| Separate Entry | Required | May share entry with primary dwelling via interior door |
| Kitchen | Efficiency kitchen required | Must include cooking facility; may share bathroom with primary |
| Bathroom | May be shared with primary unit | Separate bathroom not required (unlike ADU) |
| Owner-Occupancy | Required — owner must occupy primary unit or JADU | Deed restriction recorded at permit issuance |
| Parking | No additional parking required | Even if garage is converted |
| Setbacks | None — must stay within existing footprint | No new exterior construction beyond existing walls |
| Number Per Lot | 1 JADU per single-family lot | Can be combined with 1 ADU on the same lot |
| Permit Type | Building permit only (ministerial) | No discretionary review, no public hearing |
Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Unlike ADUs, JADUs carry a mandatory owner-occupancy requirement. The property owner must maintain their principal residence at the property — either in the primary dwelling or in the JADU itself. Key implications:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Deed Restriction | Recorded against the property prior to permit issuance; runs with the land |
| Sale Restriction | JADU cannot be sold separately from the primary dwelling |
| Rental | May rent the JADU or the primary unit — but owner must reside on-site |
| Enforcement | City may inspect for compliance; violation can result in fines or forced conversion |
JADU vs. ADU — Key Differences
| Feature | JADU | ADU |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Size | 500 sq ft | 1,200 sq ft |
| Location | Within existing structure only | Attached or detached; new construction allowed |
| Full Kitchen | Not required (efficiency kitchen OK) | Required |
| Separate Bathroom | Not required (can share) | Required |
| Owner-Occupancy | Required | Not required |
| Parking | No additional required | No additional required |
| Number Per Lot | 1 | 1 attached + 1 detached (or more on multifamily) |
| Can Combine | Yes — JADU + ADU on same lot allowed | Yes |
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and reflects regulations as of early 2026. Always verify current requirements with LADBS prior to design or construction.