Is My Backyard Big Enough for an ADU? | Free Space Check

Is Your Backyard Big Enough for an ADU? 5 Signs You’re Ready to Build

You look out your back window and see more than just a lawn. You see a rental income stream, a private home office, or a comfortable suite for your parents to move into.

The "ADU Revolution" is in full swing, and with housing costs rising, adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is one of the smartest ways to increase your property value. But before you start picking out floor plans or kitchen tiles, there is one massive question you have to answer:

Can a home actually fit—and be legally built—in my backyard?

Most homeowners think it’s just about square footage, but it’s a bit more "chess" than "checkers." Here are the five signs your property is a prime candidate for an ADU, and how to find out for sure without spending a dime.

1. You Have the "Magic" Setback Distance

Local zoning laws almost always require "setbacks." This is the "no-build zone" between your new ADU and your property line. While many states (like California) have relaxed these to as little as 4 feet, you need to ensure your yard has a clear footprint that doesn't infringe on your neighbor's privacy or the public right-of-way.

2. Your "Access Path" is Clear

This is the one that catches people off guard. You might have a massive backyard, but if the only way to get to it is a 3-foot wide gate between your house and a fence, delivery becomes a challenge.

• Pro Tip: Look up. Are there low-hanging power lines or thick tree branches blocking the path from the street to the backyard?

3. Your Utilities are Accessible

Your ADU needs water, power, and a way to handle sewage. If your main home’s electrical panel is already at max capacity, or if your backyard is a solid slab of granite, your "simple" project could get expensive quickly. Knowing where your main lines run is step one.

4. You Aren't in a "Protected Zone"

Is your home in a historical district? Is your backyard technically a protected wetland? These designations can add months of red tape to a project. Most "Top-of-Funnel" research starts with a quick check of your local city planning map.

5. You Have a "Flat-ish" Foundation Area

While you can build on a slope, it adds significant cost to your foundation and site prep. If you have a relatively level patch of dirt or grass, you’re already ahead of the game.

The "Costly Mistake" to Avoid

Many homeowners get excited and immediately hire an architect or a land surveyor. These professionals do great work, but they often charge $1,000 to $3,000 just to tell you what's possible.

If you find out your yard isn't viable after paying those fees, that’s money down the drain.

The Smarter Way: Get a Professional "Space Check" First

At Mesocore, we believe you shouldn't have to pay a premium just to find out if your project is feasible. That’s why we created the ADU Space Check.

Instead of a generic automated bot, our team uses high-resolution aerial imagery and your specific property data to give you a "Green Light" or "Red Light" on your ADU dreams.

We look at:

• Delivery Logistics: Can our modular units safely reach your site?

• Physical Footprint: Does the Model E fit within your setbacks?

• Property Layout: We identify the best placement for maximum privacy and utility.

Ready to see if your backyard is a goldmine?

Stop squinting at your property lines and let the pros take a look. It’s fast, it’s free, and it’s the most important first step you’ll take toward your new home.

Click Here to Get Your Free Mesocore ADU Space Check

Common Questions About ADU Feasibility

• What is the minimum backyard size for an ADU?

There isn't one "universal" size, as it depends on your local setback requirements (usually 4–10 feet from property lines) and the size of the unit you want to build. However, most homeowners find that a clear, flat area of at least 20' x 25' is a great starting point for a compact, functional ADU like the Mesocore Model E.

• Can I build an ADU if I have an easement on my property?

It depends on the type of easement. If it’s a utility easement (for power lines or pipes), you generally cannot build a permanent structure on top of it. Our Free Space Check specifically looks for these potential "red flags" using aerial imagery so you don't run into legal trouble later.

• How much does it cost to find out if I can build an ADU?

Many architects or land surveyors charge between $1,000 and $3,000 for a full feasibility study. At Mesocore, we offer a Free ADU Space Check to give you an initial professional "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" before you commit to those high-cost professional fees.

• Do I need a separate permit for a backyard ADU?

Yes. Even if your state has relaxed ADU laws (like California or Florida), you still need a local building permit. The good news? Using a pre-engineered modular system like Mesocore often speeds up the permitting process because the structural plans are already vetted and proven.

Still have questions about your specific lot? Chat with a Mesocore expert today or request your Free Space Check.