How to Build an ADU in Sacramento: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check If Your Property Qualifies for an ADU

Before diving in, the first thing to do is confirm your lot is eligible, this addresses that initial confusion about ADU laws many homeowners face. In Sacramento County and cities like Elk Grove or Roseville, most single-family homes qualify under 2025 updates, but it's smart to double-check.

Start by reviewing your zoning: Use free online tools from the Sacramento County Planning Department or the City of Sacramento's ADU Resource Center. Key requirements include minimum lot size (often 3,200 square feet for detached units), setbacks (4 feet from sides/rear), and height limits (16-18 feet). No extra parking is needed if you're near transit, and owner occupancy isn't required anymore.

If you're in secondary areas like Vacaville or Rocklin, local variations apply, e.g., lot coverage caps in Davis. This step usually takes a day or two and prevents costly surprises later. From my experience, families who skip this end up frustrated, so treat it as your foundation. Get ADU Cost Estimate

Step 2: Choose the Right ADU Type and Get a Consultation

Once eligible, decide on the type that suits your family's needs, whether for rental income, resale value boost, or multigenerational living. Detached ADUs offer privacy for aging parents, attached ones allow easy check-ins, and garage conversions are quick for adult children needing independence.

Schedule a no-pressure consultation with a specialized ADU builder in Sacramento to clarify options. They'll assess your lot, discuss timelines, and address fears like hidden costs. For inspiration on designs that work well here, explore our ADU models, they're pre-thought-out for local lots and include features like accessible layouts for seniors.

This phase also ties into basics like "what is an ADU", if you're new, our guide on what is an ADU in California breaks it down simply. Talk to an ADU Expert

Step 3: Design and Select ADU House Plans

Design is where your vision takes shape, solving those city-wise rule puzzles. Opt for pre-approved plans from Sacramento County's Shelf Ready program, free blueprints like 460 sq ft studios or 870 sq ft two-bedrooms that speed up approvals. These meet 2025 energy standards and can be customized for multigenerational touches, like wide doorways or separate entrances. Get ADU Cost Estimate

If custom fits better, work with architects via tools like Symbium Build for Sacramento-specific compliance. Factor in JADUs for smaller integrations (under 500 sq ft inside your home) or tiny homes as ADUs for compact efficiency.

Our post on ADU house plans in California has more design ideas to spark your thinking. This step typically costs $6,000–$8,000 for plans but saves time overall.

Step 4: Secure Financing and Budget for Your ADU

Cost clarity is a big concern, nobody wants surprises. In 2025, Sacramento ADU builds average $150,000–$400,000, with 80% going to construction and 20% to design/permits. Garage conversions start lower ($150k), while detached units hit higher for foundations.

Explore loans like ADU-specific ones from local banks or California's CalHFA grants for low-income additions. Factor in ROI: ADUs can add 10-20% to property value and generate $2,000+ monthly rentals in Roseville or Natomas.

Get quotes from trusted contractors to avoid doubts, aim for transparent breakdowns that include everything from utilities to inspections.Get ADU Cost Estimate

Step 5: Navigate the ADU Permitting Process in Sacramento

Get ADU Cost Estimate  Permits are where many get stuck, but 2025 laws mandate 60-day approvals for compliant plans. Submit through Sacramento County's Accela portal: Include site plans, floor layouts, energy compliance, and fees ($3,000–$14,000 total).

For cities like Folsom or West Sacramento, check local tweaks, e.g., fire inspections in Antioch edges. Pre-approved plans cut this to 2-6 weeks. If issues arise, a good builder handles revisions, easing fears of delays.

Step 6: Construction Phase, What to Expect

With permits in hand, construction begins, typically 4-6 months for full builds, shorter for conversions. Phases include site prep, foundation, framing, utilities, and finishes. Weekly check-ins with your contractor keep things on track, addressing any hidden issues early.

We've seen smooth processes in our projects, where families praise the competence that turns plans into homes without sales pressure.

Step 7: Final Inspections and Completion

Wrap up with inspections: Sacramento County requires checks for plumbing, electrical, and structure, use checklists like CDD-0339 for guidance. Once passed, get your certificate of occupancy.

Celebrate the win: Your ADU now supports family, boosts resale, or generates income, all within budget and timeline. Get ADU Cost Estimate 

ADU Timeline in Sacramento: A Realistic Overview

Timelines vary, but here's a 2025 breakdown:

Phase	Duration	Key Tips
Eligibility Check	1-2 days	Use online zoning tools
Consultation/Design	2-4 weeks	Opt for pre-approved plans
Permitting	2-6 weeks (60 days max)	Submit complete applications
Construction	4-6 months	Schedule regular updates
Inspections/Completion	1-2 weeks	Prepare for multiple checks

Total: 6-9 months from start to finish, depending on complexity.

Ready to Start Building Your ADU?

Contact Us Building an ADU in Sacramento doesn't have to be daunting, it's a rewarding way to create lasting family solutions. If you're ready to move forward without the guesswork, give us a call at +1 (916) 238-8240 for a free consultation. At Result Construction, we're committed to clear, competent guidance every step of the way.