What is a JADU?
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is an in-home unit up to 500 sf, carved from your main home's existing footprint (often a converted bedroom or attached garage). It must include a small efficiency kitchen and may share a bathroom with the main home.
What is a standard ADU?
A standard ADU is a separate living unit (detached, attached, or converted) up to 1,200 sf with its own kitchen, bathroom, and exterior entrance.
The key differences
| Feature | JADU | ADU |
|---|---|---|
| Max size | 500 sf | 1,200 sf |
| Location | Inside main home | Detached, attached, or converted |
| Kitchen | Efficiency only | Full |
| Bath | Can share with main | Must have own |
| Owner occupancy | Yes — required | No requirement (in most cities) |
| Sale separately | No | Yes (where AB 1033 opted in) |
| Cost (typical) | Property-specific written estimate | Property-specific written estimate |
Can you have both?
Yes — California state law allows one ADU plus one JADU on the same single-family lot.
When JADU makes sense
- You want a caregiver suite for an aging parent
- You want minimal exterior changes
- You want the lowest possible cost
- You are okay with owner-occupancy requirement
When standard ADU makes sense
- You want full rental flexibility
- You want maximum income potential
- You eventually want to sell separately (AB 1033)
- You have backyard space for a detached unit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum size of a JADU?
500 sf, set by California state law.
Does a JADU need its own kitchen?
Yes — a small "efficiency kitchen" (cooktop, sink, refrigerator) is required.
Can a JADU share a bathroom with the main house?
Yes — JADUs are the only ADU type allowed to share a bathroom.
Is owner occupancy required for a JADU?
Yes — California requires the owner to occupy either the main home or the JADU.
How much does a JADU cost in 2026?
Construction pricing depends on the property; request a property-specific written estimate.
Related Vision ADU Resources
- ADU Setback Requirements in California (2026 State Minimums + City Rules)
- ADU Height Limits in California (2026 State Rules + City Variations)
- ADU Parking Rules in California (2026)
- ADU Utility Hookups: Water, Sewer, Electric & Gas (California 2026 Guide)
- ADU Contractor in Glendale
- ADU Contractor in Riverside
- Los Angeles County ADU Builder
- Orange County ADU Builder
- Inland Empire ADU Builder
- 2026 ADU Cost Calculator
- All Vision ADU Service Areas