GET STARTED

  • Clarify what you want

  • Get inspired by other ADUs

  • Estimate project cost

GETTING STARTED RESOURCES

ADU Guidebook

A step-by-step guide to building an ADU in Newport Beach

ADU Floorplans 

Get inspiration from real-world ADU layouts.

PROJECT TIMELINE

Most ADU projects take 12-18 months to complete, but some extend to 24 months or more. Getting Started is part of the Planning phase and takes 1-3 months.

GETTING STARTED FAQs

Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about getting started. See the content below and our ADU Guidebook for more guidance, resources, and tips for all steps of the process.

GETTING STARTED ON YOUR ADU

Getting started with an ADU project is what many think of as “the fun part” – it’s when you think about the value your ADU will bring you, look for design and layout inspiration, and start to figure out what will work on your property.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Make sure you understand the types of ADUs and the other content covered in our ADU 101, and look at our Process-at-a-Glance for a brief overview of the entire ADU process. You may also want to check out our Glossary to make sure you understand the key terminology.

Think about what you want

Start by thinking about your short- and long-term goals and concerns for your ADU project and what kind of ADU is best for your needs. Our ADU Exercises have a checklist to get you started. Talk to friends and neighbors who have built an ADU and reach out to any builders or designers you know for a casual chat. Check out our ADU Stories, our pre-approved ADU plans, and sample floorplans for inspiration.

Keep in mind your plans might change once you hire a professional. On a more personal note, it’s a good idea to notify your neighbors about your project (not required but recommended), and to think about what it means to share space with tenants (and if that impacts your design and layout).  

Make an informal sketch

Make a rough sketch of your property, including the existing home, any other structures, and space for a possible ADU. Use our ADU Exercises to help you with this step. (Note: You can update this sketch or make new versions as you continue to learn about your property and what’s possible.)

Estimate project cost

It’s never too early to start thinking about and planning for your project budget. A very rough placeholder for you to use is $300 per square foot, including construction and other costs (design, fees, etc.). The real number can vary widely and depends on many factors. The Orange County ADU Calculator is a great place to start when developing a budget. It provides a rough estimate of costs and income and will help you understand how choices can impact your budget over time, all customized to real local numbers.

See Budget & Finance for more information. Our Guidebook also contains details regarding the cost of ADU design, permitting, and construction.

Get Inspired

Learn from others in your community

Get started on the right foot with our ADU Guidebook

Your go-to, in-depth guide to building an ADU in Newport Beach, from inspiration to move-in.