Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) & Homeowner Resources

Where to start – steps toward creating an ADU

1. Contact Community Development to discuss feasibility for an ADU on your property.
2. If you have a Homeowners Association (HOA), check regarding covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) on ADUs.
3. Talk to a lender about options for financing an ADU. Conversions, new construction and manufactured units all have costs to consider.   
4. Consult with a builder/contractor or manufacturer to estimate costs. If you are looking into a manufactured unit, consult the building department before you buy to make sure your preferred unit can successfully be placed.
5. Apply for a building permit. Once you have a building design and placement plans, you can apply for a permit to begin your work.
6. Your contractor can contact the City for inspections as needed during construction or installation.

ADU Information Session Recordings

Check out the recorded presentations below for ADU basics, tips on City and County permitting, working with a contractor, lending considerations, rentals and resale and building considerations. 

Part 1 - Welcome & agenda

Part 2 - Types of ADUs & site design

Part 3: City of Ellensburg permitting considerations

Part 4: Kittitas County permitting considerations

Part 5: Budgeting and working with a contractor

Part 6: Loan options

Part 7: Rentals and resale

Part 8: Building code 

Other ADU resources

• AARP’s the ABCs of ADUs includes examples of different types of ADUs and tips for planning an ADU.
• AARP’s ADU step by step guide to design and development
• If you are renting out your ADU, learn more about Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. The Rental Housing Association of WA is one source for landlord forms and resources.