Step Up Construction flags ADU planning window before 2027 California law changes

Step Up Construction has published new ADU planning guidance for San Jose and South Bay homeowners ahead of two California law changes that take effect Jan. 1, 2027. The company is steering homeowners toward early decisions on design, budgeting and site constraints as permit rules loosen for some single-family lots.

Why it matters: - California is entering another ADU growth phase, and the next rule changes could expand what homeowners can build on qualifying lots. - Homeowners who are considering a backyard unit now have a narrow window to shape plans before the new rules take effect. - The guidance is aimed at helping San Jose and South Bay owners judge whether an ADU project can fit their lot, budget and timeline.

What happened: - Step Up Construction published ADU planning guidance for San Jose and South Bay homeowners. - The guidance comes as California prepares for new ADU law changes effective Jan. 1, 2027. - California Department of Housing and Community Development data released in September 2026 showed the state issued 41,831 ADU permits in 2025, a record. - That total was roughly one in four new homes permitted statewide. - AB 956 and SB 1117 were signed Sept. 29, 2026. - The two laws allow up to two detached ADUs by right on qualifying single-family lots. - The laws also limit impact fees to larger units.

The details: - Step Up Construction’s guidance covers three ADU types the company builds: detached backyard cottages, attached additions and garage conversions. - The guidance highlights key planning questions, including lot access, setbacks, utility connections, and how design and permitting costs compare with construction costs. - San Jose has a preapproved ADU program that can issue permits the same day on qualifying lots using pre-reviewed plans. - Step Up Construction says most ADU projects fall between $200,000 and $450,000 or more. - The company says typical pricing runs from $250 to $500 or more per square foot, depending on type, finishes and site conditions. - Detached ADUs are allowed up to 1,200 square feet under current rules. - The full guidance and FAQ are available at the company's ADU page. - Step Up Construction is a San Jose remodeling company focused on ADUs and home additions, plus kitchen and bathroom remodeling. - The company serves San Jose and the South Bay and holds California CSLB license #1082741.

Between the lines: - The publication of planning guidance signals that ADU demand is still strong, but the biggest decisions are now about feasibility, not just policy. - The new laws may make some projects easier to approve, but lot conditions and project costs still determine whether an ADU pencils out. - The emphasis on preapproved plans suggests speed is becoming a competitive advantage in a market where homeowners want shorter permit timelines.

What's next: - Homeowners weighing an ADU in San Jose will likely be deciding whether to move ahead now or wait for the January 2027 rule changes. - Step Up Construction says the most important near-term work is settling the design, budget and site questions before applying for a permit. - Builders and homeowners will be watching how local permitting responds once AB 956 and SB 1117 take effect.**