Burbank has emerged as one of the best cities in Los Angeles County for ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) construction. With its thriving entertainment industry workforce, excellent schools, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Burbank ADUs command premium rents while offering homeowners significant passive income opportunities.
Why Burbank is Perfect for ADU Investment
Strong Rental Market
Burbank's unique position as a major entertainment hub creates consistent rental demand:
Key Rental Market Factors:
Average Burbank ADU Rental Rates (2026):
Return on Investment
A well-designed Burbank ADU can provide excellent returns:
Example ROI Calculation:
City of Burbank ADU Regulations 2026
Burbank has its own building department with ADU-friendly policies:
Size Requirements:
- Detached ADU: Up to 1,200 sq ft
- Attached ADU: Up to 1,000 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling
- Junior ADU (JADU): Up to 500 sq ft (within existing structure)
- Minimum size: 150 sq ft efficiency unit
Setback Requirements:
- Rear setback: 4 feet minimum
- Side setback: 4 feet minimum (5 feet if >16 feet tall)
- Front setback: Follow primary dwelling requirements
Height Limits:
- Single-story detached: 16 feet maximum
- Two-story detached: 18 feet maximum
- Attached ADU: Must not exceed primary dwelling height
Parking Requirements:
- No additional parking required if:
- Within 1/2 mile of public transit
- Within historic district
- Garage conversion (replacement parking waived)
- On-street parking permits available
Additional Burbank Requirements:
Burbank ADU Permit Process
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Pre-Application Meeting (Optional but Recommended)
Step 2: Plan Preparation
Step 3: Plan Submittal
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Total Permit Timeline: 8-12 weeks typically
Burbank ADU Permit Costs:
Total Permit Costs: $5,000-$15,000 typically
Burbank ADU Construction Costs 2026
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Site Preparation: $5,000-$20,000
Foundation: $15,000-$30,000
Framing and Roofing: $25,000-$50,000
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing: $30,000-$60,000
Interior Finishes: $40,000-$80,000
Exterior Finishes: $15,000-$30,000
Total ADU Costs by Size:
| ADU Size | Budget Build | Standard Build | Premium Build |
|----------|--------------|----------------|---------------|
| 400 sq ft | $140,000-$170,000 | $170,000-$200,000 | $200,000-$250,000 |
| 600 sq ft | $180,000-$220,000 | $220,000-$280,000 | $280,000-$350,000 |
| 800 sq ft | $220,000-$280,000 | $280,000-$350,000 | $350,000-$450,000 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $280,000-$350,000 | $350,000-$420,000 | $420,000-$550,000 |
| 1,200 sq ft | $320,000-$400,000 | $400,000-$500,000 | $500,000-$650,000 |
ADU Design Tips for Burbank
Maximizing Small Spaces:
1. Open floor plans: Combine living/dining/kitchen
2. High ceilings: Add vertical space and light
3. Large windows: Natural light makes spaces feel bigger
4. Built-in storage: Maximize every square foot
5. Pocket or barn doors: Save swing space
6. Murphy beds: Dual-purpose rooms
Energy Efficiency (Required by Title 24):
Rental-Friendly Features:
Financing Your Burbank ADU
Popular Financing Options:
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
Cash-Out Refinance
Construction Loan
Personal Loan
CalHFA ADU Grant Program
Choosing a Burbank ADU Contractor
What to Look For:
1. ADU-Specific Experience: Ask for Burbank ADU projects
2. Burbank Permit Knowledge: Familiarity with local requirements
3. Design-Build Services: Streamlines the process
4. Transparent Pricing: Detailed written estimates
5. Timeline Guarantees: Realistic completion dates
6. Warranty: Written warranty on workmanship
ESV Prime Construction: Burbank ADU Specialists
With extensive experience building ADUs throughout Burbank and the San Fernando Valley, ESV Prime Construction delivers quality units on time and on budget.
Our Burbank ADU Services:
Why Burbank Homeowners Choose Us:
Ready to build rental income in your Burbank backyard? Contact ESV Prime Construction at (818) 883-8753 for a free ADU consultation!