Build a Backyard Cottage or In-Law Suite — We Handle the Permit

Which ADU type fits your lot?

Recent ADU Projects

Gallery coming soon as our first productized ADU builds complete — check back, or ask to see in-progress project photos on your call.

ADU Questions, Answered

How much does an ADU cost in Lexington, KY?

Typical range $75,000-$235,000; final price varies with scope, site, and finishes - quoted after site visit. Use the calculator on this page for a project-specific estimate, or call (859) 551-5302.

Do I need to live on the property to build an ADU in Lexington?

ADU-friendly zoning is expanding in Kentucky (KY HB 576, 2025). We verify your parcel's zoning and permit path before design.

How big can a detached ADU be in Lexington without a variance?

ADU-friendly zoning is expanding in Kentucky (KY HB 576, 2025). We verify your parcel's zoning and permit path before design.

How long does ADU permitting take in Lexington?

ADU-friendly zoning is expanding in Kentucky (KY HB 576, 2025). We verify your parcel's zoning and permit path before design. We handle the full permit application, plan review responses, and inspection scheduling so you're not the one chasing city staff.

What's the difference between an ADU, a garage conversion, and an in-law suite?

An ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is any secondary, independently livable dwelling on a residential lot — it can be detached, a garage conversion, above an existing garage, or a basement unit with its own entrance. 'In-law suite' is a marketing term people use for any of those when the intended use is housing a parent or relative. The zoning rules and permit process are the same regardless of what you call it; what matters to LFUCG is square footage, whether it has its own kitchen/bath, and how it connects to utilities.

Can I rent out my ADU in Lexington?

In most cases yes, subject to your local zoning and any HOA restrictions — we confirm this during your site visit. Short-term rental (Airbnb-style) rules are separate and change periodically at the city level, so confirm current short-term rental licensing requirements with LFUCG before marketing a unit that way.

Do I need a separate utility meter for my ADU?

Not always. Many ADUs share the main house's water and electric service with a sub-panel, which is less expensive than running new utility service. A detached unit far from existing hookups (over 75 feet) costs more because of trenching and conduit runs — this is one of the biggest cost swing factors in our calculator.

What foundation type is best for an ADU — slab or crawlspace?

A slab foundation is less expensive and faster to build, and is the right call on flat, well-drained lots. A crawlspace foundation costs roughly $8-12 more per square foot but is worth it on sloped lots or when you need mechanical/plumbing access without tearing up a slab later. We assess your specific lot during the free site visit.

Can I convert my existing garage into an ADU instead of building detached?

Yes, and it's usually the fastest, least expensive path to an ADU because the roof, walls, and slab already exist. The main additional costs are insulation, drywall, plumbing/electrical rough-in if the garage doesn't have it, and bringing egress and ceiling height up to residential code. See our dedicated garage conversion page for a full cost and timeline breakdown.

How long does it take to actually build an ADU once permits are approved?

After permit approval, construction typically takes 8-12 weeks for a detached ADU depending on size and finish level. Garage conversions and above-garage units are often faster (6-10 weeks) since the structural shell is already in place. Basement ADU conversions vary more depending on existing ceiling height and egress requirements.

Will an ADU increase my property taxes?

Adding finished, permitted square footage will generally increase your property's assessed value, which can raise your property tax bill. The Fayette County PVA (Property Valuation Administrator) reassesses based on permitted improvements, not on whether you rent the unit out. Ask your accountant how this interacts with your specific tax situation — we can provide the permitted square footage and improvement value for that conversation.

Do I need a full site survey before building an ADU?

In most cases yes — LFUCG requires an accurate plot plan showing setbacks, existing structures, and utility locations as part of the permit application. If you don't have a recent survey, we coordinate that as part of the permitting process rather than leaving you to find a surveyor on your own.

Can an ADU have its own kitchen in Lexington?

Yes. A full kitchen (not just a kitchenette) is allowed in an ADU under LFUCG's accessory dwelling unit rules, which is part of what distinguishes an ADU from an accessory structure like a pool house. This is required if you intend to rent the unit as an independent dwelling.

What's the difference between building an ADU and just finishing my basement?

A finished basement that shares the home's main entrance and utilities without a separate kitchen is a basement remodel, not an ADU, and does not need to meet ADU zoning rules. A basement becomes an ADU when it has its own entrance, kitchen, and bath and functions as an independent unit — at that point it falls under ADU zoning and permitting rules, which we verify for your parcel before design. We build both; which one you need depends on whether you want an independently rentable/livable space or just more finished living area for your own household.

Do you handle the entire ADU permit process, or do I need to submit anything myself?

We handle the entire permit application: plot plan coordination, building plan submission, responding to LFUCG plan review comments, scheduling inspections, and final sign-off. You review and sign what's legally required of the property owner, but you are not the one navigating the LFUCG permitting portal or chasing down inspector schedules.