Garage ADU — new detached garage with ADU above in Madison, WI
Services · Garage ADUs

An ADU Built Above
Your New Garage

A garage ADU is a fully permitted dwelling unit built above a new detached garage — one structure, two uses. An efficient use of your lot that adds living space and vehicle storage at the same time.

What Is It?

Unused Square Footage
Turned Into Real Value.

A garage ADU is a new build: a detached garage with a fully permitted, livable dwelling unit constructed above it. You get vehicle storage on the ground level and a complete ADU on the upper level — built from the foundation up to your specifications.

In many Dane County municipalities, a detached garage ADU qualifies for the same setback rules as a standard accessory structure, which can make it viable on lots where a larger detached ADU might not fit. We confirm what's possible at your specific address before any design work begins.

Check My Property →
Garage ADU above a new detached garage
Best For

Who Builds Garage ADUs

💲
Lower Entry Cost
Combining a garage and ADU into one structure is an efficient use of your construction budget. You're building one footprint that serves two purposes instead of two separate structures.
📐
Tight Lots
A garage ADU's combined footprint is often more compact than a standalone detached ADU, making it a strong option on tighter urban and suburban lots.
🔧
Faster Permitting
A single structure serving as both garage and ADU simplifies the permitting scope in many municipalities, which can reduce review time compared to a larger detached build.
📈
Rental Income Potential
A garage ADU in Madison commands solid rent, especially near the university or in established neighborhoods where parking is less of a priority than living space.
Typical Project Details

What to Expect

Size range250 – 600 sq ft (garage-dependent)
Project timeline4 – 6 months start to CO
StructureNew build — garage below, ADU above
Cost relative to detachedCompetitive — one combined build
Wisconsin energy codeFully compliant
HVACMini-split system, standard

Figures vary by lot, municipality, and design. Your feasibility check establishes specifics for your property.

Our Process

How We Get There

01
Feasibility + Design Brief
Confirm what's buildable. Define scope, size, and budget.
02
Architectural Design
Floor plan, elevations, and material selections for your lot.
03
Permitting
We handle all permit submissions with your municipality.
04
Construction
Site work through final finishes. Full project management.
05
Certificate of Occupancy
Final inspection, CO issuance, and project handoff.
Ready to Find Out What's Possible?

Start with a Free Feasibility Check

We review your address, zoning, and lot — and tell you exactly what's buildable and what it'll take to get there.

Get Your Free Feasibility Check →