Davis offers nine free pre-designed ADU plans: a studio, a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom, each in Adobe, Agrarian or Mid-Mod style. Plan-check fees are reduced, and the City requires a licensed contractor to pull the building permit.
Starting prices are for the building itself on a straightforward lot. Every lot is different, so we confirm the real number in a written, line-by-line budget after we walk your property.
The building, slab to final inspection, on a flat lot with normal access
Fiber-cement lap siding, comp shingle roof, vinyl windows
Kitchen with quartz counter and appliances, full bath with tub
Ductless mini-split and heat-pump water heater
Sewer and water connections up to 50 ft from the main house
Not included
Final plan preparation for your site
Solar (PV) system, if required
City permit, plan check, impact and school fees
Title 24 and HERS testing fees
The underground electrical feed from your main panel (priced after the walkthrough)
Sewer or water runs over 50 ft, a sewer pump, or an electrical panel upgrade
Stucco exterior (the plans' other siding option)
Grading, retaining walls, tree removal and landscaping
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Good to know
Where it applies: Lots inside Davis city limits.
Getting the plans: Free from the City after a Planning consultation. Details and downloads are on Davis' pre-designed ADU plans page. We'll confirm each point for your lot at the walkthrough.
Window and door types can be changed; nothing else can
The plans were plan-checked in advance, so review moves faster
You still need
A Planning consultation to confirm the plan fits your lot
Final plan preparation for your site
A licensed contractor to pull the permit
01
Check your lot
Send us your address. We look at setbacks, access, where the sewer and power will run, and which plan fits.
02
Site plan and permit
Pre-approved plans don't include your site plan. We coordinate it, the solar and any fire plans, and the permit submittal.
03
Written budget
A fixed scope for the building itself, with site work like trenching and utility runs priced from what we see on your lot.
04
Build and inspect
Foundation, framing, roof, utilities, insulation, finishes and the required inspections, through final.
