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ADUs
August 2025

California Homeowners Still Need Permits for ADUs - Wellmade Takes Care of That

California homeowners still need permits for ADUs, but with Wellmade you don’t have to worry. From design and paperwork to construction, our team handles it all, making your ADU project smooth, compliant, and stress-free.

One of the most common questions homeowners have when beginning to think about adding an ADU is, “Do I need a building permit?” 

Unfortunately, the answer is still, “yes.”  

Even with new laws making the ADU process much easier from start to finish, homeowners that want to build an ADU still face the uncertainty and frustration of navigating California’s notoriously difficult permitting rules. However, thanks to our latest collaboration with DNM Architecture, Wellmade is perfectly positioned to handle every aspect of the ADU building process, greatly easing the burden on the homeowner.

From start to finish, we ensure that the ADU project is as hands-off as possible for homeowners, providing you with a stylish and functional space tailored to your needs with minimal hassle. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a practical rental option, we're here to make your backyard space work for you now, and into the future.

Choosing Wellmade as Your California ADU Builder

Selecting the right builder for your ADU project is crucial. At Wellmade we want to be the most comprehensive ADU builder in California, offering a forward-looking and customer-focused approach because, even with California’s new expedited ADU process, we understand that building an ADU can feel like a daunting prospect. That's why every step of our process is specifically designed to be as easy as possible for homeowners.

Paperwork and permit applications – we handle it. Navigating complex local regulations or spending time dealing with bureaucratic processes? We handle that, too. And when it comes to getting your new backyard space built, of course we handle that as well!  And all along the way, we provide regular updates throughout the construction process, keeping you informed without overwhelming you with details.

 Our overarching goal is to make your ADU journey smooth and trouble free.

Wellmade Streamlines ADU Permitting and Construction

Working with Wellmade makes it significantly easier for California homeowners right from the start. Here’s why:

Wellmade ADU Build Process Benefits


Our team handles all aspects of ADU design, permitting, and construction, saving you the trouble of coordinating multiple contractors. This integrated approach often results in faster project completion, and far fewer “hiccups” along the way.  Here are just a few of the things we take care of for you:

  • Feasibility studies for sheds and ADUs where we research and assess potential building sites before we even quote a project cost to the customer
  • Designing customizations to ADUs as requested by the customer or required by local conditions
  • Developing building permit drawings for ADUs (and sometimes for sheds!)
  • Filing permit applications on and tracking them through the system
  • Developing construction documents for use by the contractor in the field
  • Developing 3D panelization drawings for panel fabrication in the warehouse

And that’s just what it takes to get going!  Once plans are approved and permits are in place,   our modular, prefabricated design/build process means that our ADUs can be easily adapted to almost any space, with significantly reduced time on-site.  

Wellmade and DNM Architecture Partnership

If you’re considering a custom ADU, our partnership with DNM Architecture brings top-tier expertise in California's ADU regulations to your project. We ensure your project meets all local requirements, helping to avoid costly delays or unanticipated modifications during the building process.

This collaboration ensures your new space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, bringing  a true architectural approach to smaller spaces.

DNM Architecture's experience with California's unique climate and architectural styles informs every design decision. Your custom ADU will be tailored to your specific needs while complementing your existing home.

This partnership also allows us to offer custom panelized homes designed for extreme climate conditions, as highlighted in this recent announcement. This forward-thinking approach ensures your home is built to last, even as the world changes around us.

Wellmade is Your Trusted and Reliable ADU Builder in California

Why use Wellmade to build your ADU?  We pride ourselves on transparent communication and reliable service, and our best references are our growing list of ADU clients.  If you’re ready to start your new ADU or custom home project, our team is ready to answer your questions today!

Do you have questions?
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