- hgarcia@hgdesignbuild.com
- (323) 317-4828
ADU Builders
The HG Design Build Roadmap
In This Guide
The HGDB Roadmap
Navigating Southern California’s Building Codes with 30+ Years of Expertise.
The biggest hurdle in building an ADU isn’t the construction—it’s the “Red Tape.” Between local zoning laws, California state mandates, and city-specific plan checks, the permitting process can be a maze. At HG Design Build, we handle every document, every submittal, and every city hall meeting so you don’t have to.
What We Provide:
Feasibility Studies: We analyze your lot’s dimensions, existing utility capacities, and soil conditions to determine the best placement for your unit.
Financial Planning: We provide detailed cost estimates that cover everything from site prep to final finishes, helping you understand your Return on Investment (ROI).
Design-First Approach: We walk you through how an ADU will impact your current lifestyle, privacy, and property aesthetics.
Whether you want to build a guest suite or a high-end rental unit, our consultation ensures you make informed decisions before spending a dollar on construction.
Why the Permitting Process Matters
A permit is more than just a piece of paper; it is your legal protection. A fully permitted ADU:
Increases Property Value: Only permitted square footage can be included in your home’s appraisal.
Ensures Safety: Plans are reviewed for seismic (earthquake) safety and fire codes.
Legalizes Rental Income: You cannot legally rent out a space that hasn’t been permitted.
Our 5-Phase Approval Process
Phase 1: Feasibility & Zoning Audit
Before we draw a single line, we conduct a “Site-Specific Audit.”
Setback Verification: Ensuring your ADU is the required distance (usually 4ft) from property lines.
Utility Capacity: Checking if your existing electrical panel and sewer lines can handle the extra load.
Easement Check: Identifying any underground utility lines or city access points that could block construction.
Phase 2: Architectural & Engineering Design
Once we know what the city allows, our designers create your “Site-Specific Plan.”
Site Plan: Showing the ADU’s location on your lot.
Floor Plans & Elevations: Detailed 2D and 3D views of the unit.
Structural Engineering: Foundation and framing plans designed to withstand Southern California’s seismic activity.
Title 24 Energy Calcs: Ensuring your ADU meets California’s strict energy efficiency standards.
Phase 3: City Submittal & Plan Check
We act as your Authorized Representative. We submit the digital or physical plans to the City Planning and Building departments.
Plan Check Management: City officials will often request “corrections.” Our team handles these technical revisions immediately.
Liaison Services: We manage the back-and-forth between fire, health, and public works departments.
Phase 4: Fee Management & Waivers
Permit fees can be expensive. We ensure you take advantage of California state laws that benefit homeowners:
Impact Fee Waivers: If your ADU is under 750 sq. ft., we ensure you are not charged development impact fees (saving you thousands).
School Fees: We coordinate with local school districts for the required clearances.
Phase 5: Permit Issuance & RTI (Ready to Issue)
Once all departments have “stamped” the plans, the city issues the permit. You are now Ready to Issue (RTI), and construction can officially begin.
Local Expertise We Know Your City
Every city in Southern California has its own “flavor” of regulations. We have extensive experience working with:
City of Los Angeles (LADBS)
Santa Monica & Malibu (Coastal Commission requirements)
Orange County Jurisdictions
Unincorporated LA County Areas