ADU Builder in Menlo Park, CA

Menlo Park is one of the most expensive housing markets on the Peninsula, which makes ADU rental income here exceptionally strong. Apex Homes is a full-service ADU builder serving Menlo Park, managing design, permits, and construction in-house so you’re not piecing it together yourself. If you’re ready to build, we’ll start with a free feasibility study and tell you exactly what’s possible on your lot.

ADU Regulations in Menlo Park

Menlo Park follows California state ADU law with local size and setback standards that vary based on unit size and lot type. 

Single-family lots: Homeowners may build one detached or attached ADU, plus one Junior ADU (JADU). 

• Detached ADUs: up to 1,000 sq ft; attached ADUs: up to 1,000 sq ft or 50% of the primary dwelling, whichever is greater
• JADUs capped at 500 sq ft, located within the primary dwelling
• ADUs under 800 sq ft: 4 ft side and rear setbacks, 16 ft max height
• ADUs 801–1,000 sq ft: increased setbacks apply, up to 17 ft height
• Attached ADUs match the height of the primary dwelling

Multi-family lots:

• Up to 2 detached ADUs permitted
• Similar size, setback, and height requirements apply
• Unit separation from main house: 4–10 ft depending on ADU size

Apex Homes handles zoning verification, setback calculations, and code compliance — included in your free feasibility study.

Menlo Park ADU Permitting Process

To obtain an ADU permit in Menlo Park, homeowners should first confirm their property’s zoning and review the city’s ADU standards.

Free Feasibility Study

Apex checks your zoning, lot size, setbacks, and utility connections — at no cost, before you commit to anything.

Pre-Application Review

A visit to Menlo Park’s Planning, Building, and Engineering staff to review zoning, setbacks, and documentation requirements before submitting.

Apex Prepares Your Permit Package

We prepare all required documents: site plans, floor plans, elevations, surveys, structural details, and Title 24. Detached ADUs may also require geologist or arborist reports, which we coordinate.

Submit via ACA Portal

Applications are submitted electronically through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal. Compliant applications are typically approved by staff; noncompliant proposals may require Planning Commission review.

Construction & Inspections

Apex builds your ADU and manages all city inspections. We deliver a finished, move-in ready unit — typically within 5 months of your feasibility study.

Check my Property Eligibility

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Browse ADU Floor Plans

Apex offers a range of 1, 2, and 3-bedroom ADU floor plans designed to meet California’s building standards and fit a variety of lot sizes. Each plan includes all documentation required for permitting — site plan, elevations, structural details, and Title 24 compliance.

Why Build An ADU in Menlo Park

An ADU in Menlo Park offers flexible space to meet your lifestyle needs. It can serve as a home office, art studio, or guest house, providing privacy and independence for family members or long-term visitors.

ADUs are also a smart financial choice. Renting out your ADU can generate passive income, helping offset mortgage payments or serve as a long-term investment, With Menlo Park’s high-demand housing market, ADUs are attractive to renters seeking private, modern, and well-designed spaces,

Additionally, building an ADU can increase your property’s overall value. Homes with thoughtfully designed ADUs stand out in the market, offering extra living space, rental potential, and flexible options for family or future use, all while maximizing the efficiency of your existing lot.

For more detailed information or specific guidance, we can book a free consultation with an Apex Home ADU expert. Let us help you transform your property with a thoughtfully planned ADU today!