An ADU is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit which provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation, which is located on the same lot as a single-family detached dwelling unit.

California’s lack of housing production and large population growth have caused a housing shortage. In fact, only half the homes needed to keep up with population growth were constructed in California in the past ten years. That means that cities statewide need to build more housing. It also means that housing is unaffordable, particularly for renters in California.

ADU’s are also important for homeowners and families. ADU’s are the perfect way to expand upon a housing investment, and create passive rental income for you and your family. ADU’s are also an affordable way to house seniors or children on the same property as their relatives so families can better assist each other without living in the same unit.

Additional ADU state laws can be found HERE.

Construction cost such as materials, labor, and consultant fees will vary depending on rates set by the consultants and professionals you choose to retain. However, the City is making efforts to greatly reduce costs associated with building an ADU. On June 6, 2023, the City of Desert Hot Springs City Council approved to waive all local development impact fees for ADU’s built in the City, reducing permitting fees significantly. Costs will vary depending on the type of ADU you decide to build. At the bottom of the page you can find fee estimate sheets associated with the plan type you choose for your ADU!