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ADU landscaping: the rules and who does it

By the HyreADU research desk. Last checked .

The short answer

ADU landscaping restores the yard after construction and shapes privacy, drainage and access between the two homes. In California, new landscape areas of 500 square feet or more that need a building or landscape permit fall under the state Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, or a local version at least as strict.

When the water rules apply

The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (23 CCR § 490.1) covers new construction projects with an aggregate landscape area of 500 square feet or more that need a permit, plan check or design review. Many cities adopt their own version. Ask your planning department whether your ADU permit pulls in a landscape plan.

What the yard has to do

Drain water away from both buildings. Give the ADU its own path and entry. Screen windows that face the main house. Keep access for meters and cleanouts. These choices belong on the site plan, not as an afterthought.

Who to hire

In California, landscape work over the minor-work threshold needs a licensed contractor; the CSLB has a C-27 Landscaping class. A landscape architect can draw a plan where the city needs one. Check licenses on the state board sites.

What to do next: read the questions to ask an ADU builder, check what decides ADU cost, then tell us about your project. Matching is not live yet, so we reply with information, not a quote.

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Questions

Does my ADU need a landscape plan?

Only if your city or the 500 square foot threshold requires it. Ask planning.

Can trees block an ADU?

Protected tree rules are local. A tree survey may be needed.

Who restores the yard after building?

Whoever the contract says. Many builders exclude it.

Does landscaping count toward lot coverage?

Planting usually does not; decks and paving may. Check local rules.

Sources

HyreADU is a publisher. It does not design, permit or build ADUs, has no partner builders, and gives no legal, tax or engineering advice. Rules vary by state and city; California rules are labeled as such.