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How a Jacksonville ADU gets built
Eight stages, one team. You always know where the project stands and what happens next.
- Lot checkWe confirm the permitting agency, zoning, flood zone, recorded covenants and septic or sewer.
- Site visitWe measure, check the panel, find the utility routes and note elevation and trees.
- Design and quoteA plan that fits the lot, and a written, itemized quote.
- EngineeringWind load design, flood elevation and energy code documents.
- ApprovalsHOA review where needed, then the permit application and corrections.
- ConstructionFoundation, framing, roof, systems, insulation and finishes.
- InspectionsWe schedule each inspection and handle anything it raises.
- Final sign-offFinal inspection and the go-ahead to move in.
Why does the lot check come first?
Around Jacksonville, the address decides almost everything: which government issues the permit, whether a rentable ADU is allowed at all, and how high the floor must be. We would rather tell you no before design than after.
When do I get a price?
After the site visit and a first design, before construction. The quote is written and itemized, so you can see what the foundation, the utilities and each finish cost. If the engineering turns up something new, such as a higher required floor elevation, we tell you right away.
How long does approval take?
It depends on the office, the season and how complete the first submittal is. HOA review, historic review or a coastal permit add steps. We give you a schedule for your project with the quote and update it as reviews come back.
What should I have ready?
- The property address and any survey or elevation certificate you have.
- Your HOA's declaration and architectural guidelines, if there is an association.
- Past permits for the house or garage, if you know of them.
- Who the unit is for, and a budget range.
What slows projects down most?
It depends on the lot, but three things come up again and again: a missing survey or elevation certificate, an HOA that meets once a month, and plan corrections answered slowly. We order the survey early and answer corrections quickly.
Updated October 2026
Check what your lot allows
Share the address and your idea. We find out which government issues the permit, then check zoning, flood zone, covenants and setbacks, and tell you which ADU types are realistic.
Serving Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach.