ADU Architect in Orange County
MBARCHAA designs accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs in Orange County: detached backyard units, attached units, and garage conversions. Licensed architect Mustafa Bdaiwi prepares the drawings, coordinates engineering and Title 24, and takes the plans through city plan check.
Key facts
- California ADU rules are set by state law (summarized in the state housing department's ADU Handbook) and each city adds its own objective standards.
- State law requires a city to approve or deny a complete ADU application within 60 days.
- For a new attached or detached ADU, a city cannot require side and rear setbacks of more than 4 feet.
- A junior ADU (JADU) is limited to 500 square feet and is created within a single-family home.
- Under state law, an ADU with 750 square feet or less of interior livable space is exempt from impact fees; plan-check, permit and school fees can still apply.
Related projects
- San Clemente Coastal Residence - Residential, San Clemente, CA. Single Family Residence
- Santa Ana Craftsman-Style Residence - Residential, Santa Ana, CA. Single Family Residence - Craftsman Style
- Fullerton Hillside Residence Addition & Remodel - Residential, Fullerton, CA. Single Family Residence - Contemporary Addition & Remodel
- Altadena Residence - Residential, Altadena, CA. Single Family Residence
- Costa Mesa Residence - Residential, Costa Mesa, CA. Residence
- Downey Residence - Residential, Downey, CA. Residence
Want the architect to carry it through construction too? See One-Mind Delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Can I build an ADU on my single-family lot in Orange County?
In most cases yes. California law allows at least one ADU and one JADU on a lot with a single-family home, subject to the city's objective standards. Start with a zoning check of your specific lot.
How long does a city have to approve an ADU permit?
State law gives the city 60 days from a complete application to approve or deny it. Corrections and resubmittals add time, so complete drawings matter.
Do I need an architect for an ADU?
Cities require a complete, code-compliant plan set. A licensed architect prepares and stamps it, coordinates structural and Title 24 energy work, and answers plan-check comments.
Start a project or call (949) 606-7300.