A garage conversion is usually the lowest-cost path to an ADU in Burbank — $95,000-$195,000, versus $220,000-$400,000 for a new detached build — because the shell already exists.
Garage Conversion Cost in Burbank
Converting an existing garage in Burbank runs $95,000-$195,000. That's well under the $220,000-$400,000 typical cost of a ground-up detached ADU, because you're reusing the foundation, walls, and roof. The biggest variables are whether the slab and framing are sound, what utility/electrical upgrades are needed, and your finish level. Permit fees add Plan check and permit fees due at submittal — confirm current schedule with Burbank Building & Safety, (818) 238-5250. A converted unit rents for about $2,100-$2,400/mo (1BR) in Burbank.
The Burbank Garage Conversion Permit Process
A garage-to-ADU conversion in Burbank needs building permits even if the exterior is unchanged. Approval process: Ministerial plan check through Community Development (ProjectDox e-plan system); Burbank Water & Power has separate ADU plan-check requirements for water and electric service The review timeline is 60-day state deemed-approval clock (SB 543, 2026); BPAP preapproved plans target 30-day permit issuance under AB 1332, with plan check: Electronic review via ProjectDox; BWP water and electric ADU requirements reviewed in parallel; BPAP enrollment reviews run 6-8 weeks for new plan approvals. Pre-approved plans: Yes — Burbank Preapproved ADU Program (BPAP): city-approved 432 sq ft studio plan plus 12 accepted LADBS-preapproved designs (200-847 sq ft).
- Confirm eligibility — ADUs are allowed in R-1, R-1-H (conversion-only), R-2, R-3, R-4, MDR-3, MDR-4, and any lot with existing single-family or multifamily residential units.
- Prepare conversion plans — layout, egress windows, insulation, ventilation, smoke/CO detectors, plus a kitchen and bathroom.
- Submit for plan check — Electronic review via ProjectDox; BWP water and electric ADU requirements reviewed in parallel; BPAP enrollment reviews run 6-8 weeks for new plan approvals.
- Pull permits and build — fees run Plan check and permit fees due at submittal — confirm current schedule with Burbank Building & Safety, (818) 238-5250; then framing, electrical, plumbing, and final inspection.
No Replacement Parking Required
No. California law (AB 68 / Gov Code §66314) prohibits cities from requiring replacement parking when you convert or demolish a garage to build an ADU — so you do not need to add a parking space anywhere on the lot. Owner-occupancy is not required, so you can rent the converted unit out.
The JADU Option for an Attached Garage
If your garage is attached to the house, you can convert it into a junior ADU (JADU) — capped at 500 sq ft, within an existing home in R-1 or R-1-H zones only and built within the existing walls. JADUs are cheaper and faster to permit than a full ADU, though they may share sanitation with the main home. A full ADU gives you more size and a separate unit; a JADU is the budget route.
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Burbank Garage Conversion FAQ
How much does a garage conversion cost in Burbank?
Do I need a permit to convert a garage in Burbank?
Do I have to replace the parking if I convert my garage in Burbank?
How long does a garage conversion take in Burbank?
Can I convert an attached garage into a JADU in Burbank?
Compare your options: see the full Burbank ADU rules, estimate your build with the Burbank ADU cost calculator, or read the general garage conversion guide.