September 4, 2025
Can I Build an ADU in My Backyard in California?
Back-to-School, Back to Building: Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your ADU
The kids are back in school. Vacations are winding down. Routines feel a little more predictable again.
For a lot of California homeowners, this season is the first real chance to breathe — and start thinking about bigger projects around the house.
If you’ve been wondering whether an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) could fit in your backyard, fall is one of the best times of year to start planning. Here’s why.
Why Fall and Winter Are Prime Planning Seasons
Most people assume spring or summer are the only “building months.” But the smartest homeowners know the secret: planning now gives you a huge head start.
- Permit offices are still moving. They’re less backed up than the spring rush, and you can get your submittal in before queues get long.
- Cooler weather means easier site visits. No one likes crawling around in your backyard in 100-degree heat.
What Homeowners Are Thinking About Right Now
We hear the same things every September:
- “I need a quiet office again now that the house is busy.”
- “We want extra space ready for family over the holidays.”
- “If we start now, can we rent by summer?”
- “The market feels unpredictable — I want my property to keep gaining value.”
All of those reasons come down to the same idea: fall is the time to start, so you’re not stuck waiting until next year.
The Fastest Way to See What Fits
The #1 question we hear from homeowners is simple: “Can I even fit one of these in my backyard?”
Instead of guessing, we built a free tool called Check My Backyard. Just type in your address, and you can:
- See exactly where units can go.
- Move different layouts around.
- Spot potential blockers like slopes or overhead power lines.
- Save your design so you’re ready when it’s time to talk permits.
It’s the easiest way to get real answers without scheduling estimates or walking your lot with a contractor.
Don’t Wait Until Spring
Every year, we see homeowners wait until March or April — and by then, permit offices are backed up, contractors are booked solid, and material prices may have crept up.
Starting this fall means:
- You get ahead of the rush.
- You have time to make clear decisions.
- You can move into your new ADU as early as next summer.
Ready to Start?
Take advantage of the season while life is calmer. Try Check My Backyard today — it’s completely free. Type in your address, explore your options, and save a design.
Because back-to-school isn’t just for the kids. It’s the perfect time to build smarter for your future.
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