ADU Builder in Santa Monica, CAAccessory dwelling units designed, permitted & built by one licensed team
From garage conversions in Sunset Park to detached backyard ADUs in Ocean Park, All Exclusive Construction builds code-compliant ADUs that add rental income, room for family, and lasting value to Santa Monica homes.
We Build ADUs in Santa Monica and the Westside
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a second, fully independent home on the same lot as your house, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance. Often called a granny flat, guest house, backyard home, or in-law suite, an ADU can be attached to your home, built as a detached structure, or created by converting a garage or unused space inside the house.
Santa Monica is one of the most in-demand rental markets in Southern California, and the City now approves ADUs through a streamlined, ministerial process. That makes an ADU one of the smartest ways for Santa Monica homeowners to create rental income, house family members close by, or add a home office or studio, without buying more property.
All Exclusive Construction is a general contractor in Santa Monica that handles every step of your ADU: feasibility, design, engineering, City of Santa Monica permits, construction, and final inspection. We build ADUs throughout Ocean Park, Sunset Park, North of Montana, Wilshire Montana, Mid-City, Pico, and the neighboring Westside communities.
Local office: 301 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 · (818) 836-1722 · View on Google
Garage-to-ADU Conversion: Start to Finish
Every ADU we build follows the same careful sequence. Here's one of our garage conversions, from demolition to the finished unit.
Types of ADUs We Build in Santa Monica
The right ADU depends on your lot, your budget, and how you plan to use it. We'll walk your property and recommend the option that makes the most sense.
Detached ADU
A brand-new, stand-alone backyard home. The most privacy and the best rental value, with up to two stories allowed in Santa Monica.
Garage Conversion ADU
Turn an existing garage into a full studio or one-bedroom unit. Often the fastest, most affordable path to a legal rental, and the lost parking doesn't need to be replaced.
Attached ADU
An addition connected to your home with its own entrance, kitchen, and bath. Great for multigenerational living or a long-term tenant.
Junior ADU (JADU)
A compact unit carved out of existing space inside your home, such as a bedroom suite or attached garage, with an efficiency kitchen.
Two-Story ADU
Build up instead of out to keep your yard. Santa Monica allows detached ADUs up to two stories, a smart option on smaller Westside lots.
Conversions & Additions
Convert a basement, pool house, or other accessory space into a legal ADU, or pair your ADU with a home addition for the main house.
Santa Monica ADU Requirements
Santa Monica regulates ADUs and Junior ADUs under Section 9.31.025 of the Santa Monica Municipal Code, last amended in 2025, plus California state ADU law. Here are the rules that shape most Santa Monica ADU projects.
1Zoning & How Many ADUs
ADUs are allowed on residential and mixed-use lots with an existing or proposed single-unit home or a multi-unit building, with no minimum lot size. A single-family lot can typically have one converted ADU, one JADU, and one new detached ADU, and some R1 lots qualify for an additional unit with a recorded deed restriction.
2Size Limits
Detached ADUs can be up to 850 sq ft for a studio or one-bedroom and 1,200 sq ft for two or more bedrooms, with a 150 sq ft minimum. Attached ADUs follow the same caps but generally can't exceed 50% of the existing home. JADUs are limited to 500 sq ft inside the walls of the main house.
3Height & Setbacks
Detached ADUs can be up to two stories or 24 feet, with 4-foot side and rear setbacks and at least 4 feet of separation from the main home. ADUs can't sit in the required front setback. An existing garage or structure can be converted in place without new setbacks.
4Parking
No parking is required for ADUs or JADUs in Santa Monica, and parking removed to build an ADU, such as a garage conversion, doesn't have to be replaced.
5Rental & Ownership Rules
ADUs can be rented separately from the main home, and the owner doesn't have to live on site. Rentals of 30 days or less are prohibited. JADUs carry extra owner-occupancy and deed restriction rules, which state law changed in 2026, so we confirm them with the City for each project.
6Coastal Zone
Properties in Santa Monica's coastal zone, in the western part of the city closer to the beach, need a Coastal Development Permit or waiver from the California Coastal Commission. It runs alongside your building permit, and the Commission has 60 days to act on a complete application.
7Permits & Timeline
ADUs are approved ministerially, with no public hearing or design review. The City must act within 60 days of a complete application, and since January 1, 2026 it must confirm completeness within 15 business days.
8Fees
Plan check and building permit fees are based on project valuation. Under state law, ADUs of 750 sq ft or less and JADUs of 500 sq ft or less are exempt from impact fees, and Santa Monica exempts ADUs from several of its own development impact fees. Larger units may owe utility and school fees.
Good to know: ADU rules change often, and every lot is different. We confirm your property's zoning, coastal status, and utilities with the City of Santa Monica Planning & Community Development Department before design begins. See the City's Accessory Dwelling Units page for official resources.
Our Santa Monica ADU Process
One team from the first site visit to move-in day, so nothing falls between the designer, the engineer, and the builder.
Free Site Visit & Feasibility
We walk your property, check zoning, coastal status, setbacks, and utilities, and talk through your goals and budget.
Design & Engineering
Floor plans, elevations, structural engineering, and Title 24 energy calcs, designed around how you'll use the unit.
City Permits
We submit to the City of Santa Monica, handle plan check corrections, and coordinate Coastal Commission review if needed.
Construction
Our licensed crew builds your ADU with a dedicated project manager, regular updates, and a clean, respectful job site.
Inspections & Final
We schedule and pass every City inspection, from foundation to final, so your ADU is fully legal.
Move In or Rent Out
A final walkthrough with you, and your new ADU is ready for family, guests, or a tenant.
Want the full step-by-step? Read what to expect when building a custom ADU in Southern California.
How Much Does an ADU Cost in Santa Monica?
The cost of an accessory dwelling unit depends on its type, size, site conditions, utilities, and finishes. These are 2026 planning ranges for design/build ADU projects in Santa Monica.
Junior ADU (JADU)
Converting a bedroom suite or attached garage inside your home into a compact unit with an efficiency kitchen and bath.
Garage Conversion ADU
Turning an existing detached or attached garage into a full studio or one-bedroom ADU, including foundation, utility, and roof upgrades.
Attached ADU
A new addition connected to your home with its own entrance, full kitchen, and bathroom.
Detached ADU
A completely new, stand-alone backyard home. This is entirely new construction, one or two stories.
| What Drives Your ADU Price | Why It Matters in Santa Monica |
|---|---|
| Size & bedrooms | Larger units cost more overall, but smaller units cost more per square foot. |
| New build vs. conversion | Conversions reuse an existing foundation and framing, which usually lowers cost. |
| Utilities | New sewer, water, gas, and electrical service, plus any panel upgrade. |
| Site access | Narrow side yards and alley access on Westside lots affect equipment and labor. |
| Coastal zone | Coastal Development Permit review adds time and fees for properties near the beach. |
| Finishes | Cabinetry, counters, flooring, and fixtures matter for both comfort and rent. |
These prices are only ballpark figures to give you a rough idea of what to expect for a design/build ADU completed by a team of craftsmen. Your ADU project may vary depending on the site, any zoning or coastal issues, the size and scope of the ADU, the materials you choose, and the overall scope of work. For a firm price, request a consultation so we can see your property, hear your ideas, and determine the actual scope of work. After our on-site consultation we'll provide a firm estimate to build your new ADU the right way.
Comparing options? Read ADU vs. home addition or our guide to building a rental unit without buying new property.
Benefits of Building an ADU in Santa Monica
Rental Income
Santa Monica's strong rental demand makes a legal ADU a reliable source of long-term monthly income.
Room for Family
Keep aging parents or adult children close while everyone keeps their own space and privacy.
Property Value
A permitted second unit adds usable square footage and flexibility that buyers value.
Office or Studio
A quiet, separate workspace steps from home, without giving up a bedroom in the main house.
Why Choose All Exclusive Construction for Your Santa Monica ADU?
Building an ADU takes expertise, precision, and a real understanding of each homeowner's goals. Our team designs and builds ADUs that make the most of every square foot and fit the way you live, and our approach covers every detail from the first consultation to the final walkthrough.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to client satisfaction. Our design team captures every part of your vision, and our on-site project management and consistent communication keep the process transparent and as smooth as possible.
- Licensed, bonded & insured general contractor — CA Lic. #1120170
- Local office at 301 Arizona Ave in Downtown Santa Monica
- Design, engineering, permits, and construction under one roof
- Experience with City of Santa Monica plan check and Coastal Commission review
- 5.0 stars from 82 Google reviews
What Our Clients Say
5.0 Rating · 82 Five-Star Reviews on Google
I had a specific budget for my ADU and Jacob came in very close to budget! Don't be skeptical of his young appearance, he is forthright, honest, smart and creative. He helped me come up with solutions for problems that inspectors threw at us and his team was diligent and thorough. I am very particular about design choices and Jake and his crew did an amazing job with the both the bathroom and kitchen cabinets, the plumbing, the tile, appliance installation and flooring. I wanted a smart house and they skillfully installed smart devices and fixtures and was very adept at dealing with many different inspectors and engineers to pass all requirements and codes.
I cannot say enough great things about All Exclusive Construction Inc. and owner Jacob Beckert. Jacob recently completed a full remodel for me and the results are absolutely stunning. The quality of workmanship and attention to detail exceeded my expectations leaving me with a beautiful finished product that I am proud of. From start to finish Jacob was extremely professional, punctual, and reliable. One thing that really stood out was his communication. He always answered his phone and was available whenever I had questions or concerns, which made the entire process stress free and enjoyable. Not only did he complete the project in a timely manner but his pricing was very fair and reasonable. It's rare to find a contractor who delivers exceptional quality, stays on schedule, communicates consistently, and remains competitively priced. Working with Jacob was truly a pleasure, and I would highly recommend All Exclusive Construction to anyone looking for a trustworthy, skilled, dependable contractor. Five stars all the way!
I can't say enough wonderful things! From start to finish, they were professional, reliable, knowledgeable, and incredibly easy to work with. They paid close attention to everything I wanted, they communicated things clearly throughout the entire project, and made sure everything was done properly and to the highest standard. What really stood out was their honesty, professionalism, and commitment to making sure we were completely satisfied with the results. They showed up when they said they would, kept the project moving, and went above and beyond to make the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible. The quality of their work exceeded our expectations, and the results turned out amazing. If you're looking for a contractor you can trust to do quality work and genuinely care about their customers, I highly recommend them. We would absolutely use them again for any future projects! Thank you for making my vision come true!
We had an amazing experience with All Exclusive Construction for our kitchen and bathroom remodel. From start to finish, the team was professional, reliable, and easy to work with. They paid close attention to every detail and made sure everything was completed with high-quality craftsmanship. Our kitchen and bathroom turned out even better than we imagined, and we couldn't be happier with the final results. We truly appreciate their hard work, communication, and dedication throughout the entire project. We highly recommend All Exclusive Construction to anyone looking for quality remodeling work!
Santa Monica ADU FAQs
Answers to the questions Santa Monica homeowners ask most about building an accessory dwelling unit.
Most Santa Monica lots with an existing or proposed single-unit home or a multi-unit building can add an ADU. ADUs are approved ministerially under Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 9.31.025, with no public hearing, and there is no minimum lot size. We confirm your lot's zoning, coastal zone status, and utilities during a free site visit.
A detached ADU can be up to 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom and up to 1,200 square feet for two or more bedrooms, with a 150 square foot minimum. An attached ADU follows the same caps but generally can't exceed 50% of the existing home. A junior ADU (JADU) can be up to 500 square feet and must be within the walls of the main house.
Santa Monica allows a detached ADU of up to two stories or 24 feet, with 4-foot side and rear setbacks and at least 4 feet of separation from the main house. Attached ADUs and JADUs follow the height limit of the zoning district for the main home.
A single-family lot can typically have one converted ADU, one junior ADU, and one new detached ADU. Some R1 lots may qualify for an additional unit with a recorded deed restriction, and multi-unit properties can add more. We confirm the exact count for your lot before design starts.
No. Santa Monica doesn't require parking for ADUs or JADUs, and parking removed to build an ADU, such as a garage conversion, doesn't need to be replaced. Properties in the coastal zone should confirm parking with the Coastal Commission.
Under state law and the Santa Monica Municipal Code, the City must act on a complete ADU application within 60 days, and since January 1, 2026 it must tell you within 15 business days whether your application is complete. Design, engineering, and plan check corrections usually add time before the application is complete, which is why we prepare thorough plans from the start.
If your property is in the coastal zone, which covers the western part of the city closer to the beach, your ADU needs a Coastal Development Permit or waiver from the California Coastal Commission. It's processed alongside the building permit, and the Commission has 60 days to act on a complete application. We check your parcel on the City's maps during the feasibility review.
As a planning range for 2026, a junior ADU conversion typically runs $75,000 to $150,000+, a garage conversion $125,000 to $250,000+, an attached ADU $200,000 to $375,000+, and a new detached ADU $250,000 to $500,000+. Your price depends on size, site conditions, utilities, finishes, and whether coastal review is needed. We provide a firm written estimate after an on-site consultation.
Yes. An ADU can be rented separately from the main home, and the owner doesn't have to live on the property. Short-term rentals of 30 days or less aren't allowed. Junior ADUs have additional owner-occupancy and deed restriction rules, which changed under state law in 2026, so we confirm them with the City for your project.
Yes. Garage conversions are one of the most popular ADU types in Santa Monica because the foundation and structure often already exist, which lowers cost. An existing garage can be converted in place without new setbacks, and the lost parking doesn't need to be replaced.
ADU Construction Across Santa Monica & the Westside
We build ADUs in every Santa Monica neighborhood and nearby Westside communities.
Our Other Santa Monica & ADU Services
Request Your Santa Monica ADU Consultation
Tell us about your property and what you'd like to build. We'll set up a free on-site visit, review what's possible on your lot, and give you a clear written estimate.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
We'll get back to you within 24 hours — no obligation.
Ready to Build Your Santa Monica ADU?
Licensed & insured general contractor · CA Lic. #1120170 · Office at 301 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica
