The Easiest Way to Build an ADU in Los Angeles? Start with LA County's Pre-Approved Plans
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are taking Southern California by storm, and for good reason! Whether you're creating a source of rental income, a home for family members, or a private office space, ADUs are a brilliant way to add value and versatility to your property.
But the traditional process of designing and permitting a new structure can feel daunting. That's where a fantastic resource comes in: the LA County ADU Standard Plans Program.
LA County's "Easy Button" for ADUs
Think of this program as a catalog of ready-to-go ADU designs. The county has worked with various architects to pre-approve a selection of ADU architectural plans, offering everything from sleek modern studios to more traditional one-bedroom units.
By choosing one of these standard plans, you get a major head start. It can dramatically cut down on the time and cost associated with the initial design and review phase, helping you get to the building phase much faster.
But just like that stylish suit you buy off the rack, it still needs to be tailored to fit you—or in this case, your specific property.
Standard ADU Plan A (1,200 square feet – 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom)
Why Your "Pre-Approved" ADU Still Needs an Engineer
The county's pre-approval covers the architectural design—the layout, size, and general look. It does not cover the site-specific structural engineering. Every backyard is different, and that's where we come in. Here's why you still need a structural engineer:
The Foundation is Everything: The pre-approved plan has no idea what kind of soil you have. Is it sandy? Is it expansive clay? Is your yard perfectly flat or on a slight slope? A structural engineer designs the right type and size of foundation to ensure your new ADU is safe and stable on your land.
Garage Conversions & Additions: If your ADU is a garage conversion or an addition attached to your main house, an engineer needs to design the new structures and the connections between the old and new to ensure they work together safely.
Site-Specific Conditions: We analyze your property for any other unique factors. Is the proposed ADU location near a retaining wall, a big tree, or the property line? These elements can all influence the final structural design.
The APE Advantage: Better, Faster, More Affordable
Here’s the great news. Because you're starting with a pre-approved architectural plan, a huge piece of the puzzle is already solved.
For our team at APE Structures, this means we can focus entirely on the site-specific engineering. This streamlined process allows us to provide the necessary, signed-and-sealed structural drawings you need for your permit much more efficiently and at a lower cost than if you were starting a fully custom design from scratch.
You get the speed and savings of a pre-approved plan plus the peace of mind of a custom-engineered structure. It’s the best of both worlds.
Ready to add an ADU to your property? Let's team up. Contact APE Structures today, and we'll help you get your project off the ground faster.
