Quick Answer: Yes — you can add a second kitchen to your San Jose home for an in-law suite (also called a Junior ADU or JADU). Under California’s ADU laws (SB 13, AB 68 effective 2020), homeowners can create a Junior ADU (JADU) within the existing walls of a single-family home — typically by converting a bedroom or a portion of the house — that includes its own kitchenette/efficiency kitchen with a small sink, cooktop, and mini-fridge. A JADU is limited to 500 sq ft, must have a separate entrance (can be through the main house), and the owner must occupy the main house or the JADU. Importantly, JADUs are exempt from many fees that apply to detached ADUs, including school impact fees and utility connection fees, making them significantly less expensive to create.
JADU vs ADU — Second Kitchen Options for San Jose Homes
Helpful Resources:
| Option | Max Size | Kitchen Type | Fees | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior ADU (JADU) within existing space | 500 sq ft (within existing home) | Efficiency kitchen (sink + cooktop + fridge — no full range required) | Minimal — exempt from school fees and many impact fees | $30,000 – $80,000 |
| Internal ADU (converted space with full kitchen) | No state size limit for internal | Full kitchen allowed | Some fees may apply | $50,000 – $120,000 |
| Detached ADU (new construction or garage conversion) | 1,200 sq ft new; size of garage for conversion | Full kitchen allowed | All standard ADU fees | $100,000 – $350,000 |
What Is Allowed in a JADU Kitchen in San Jose?
- Sink: Required — can be a standard sink or a compact bar sink. Must connect to the home’s existing plumbing supply and drain
- Cooktop: A single or double induction burner, electric cooktop, or small apartment-size range is typically allowed. A full 30-inch range with oven is also permitted in most cases
- Refrigerator: Under-counter mini-fridge or apartment-size refrigerator — space permitting
- Full range hood/ventilation: Required by California mechanical code for any cooking surface — either a ducted range hood to the exterior or a ductless recirculating hood where exterior ducting isn’t feasible
- No dishwasher required: But one can be added if plumbing allows — increases the functionality for the occupant
Quartz Construction creates Junior ADUs and in-law suites throughout San Jose — including the full kitchen installation, plumbing, electrical, and permits. Learn about ADU and JADU services. CSLB #1003436 | Call (650) 749-7436.
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What Our Bay Area Clients Say
4.9 ★ average rating across Google, Yelp, and Houzz from 150+ Bay Area homeowners.
"Quartz Construction did an amazing job on our kitchen remodel. The team was professional, on time, and the results exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend to any Bay Area homeowner!"
— Michael T. |
"We hired them for a bathroom remodel in our San Jose home. From permitting to final walkthrough, everything was handled perfectly. The tile work is stunning. 5 stars without hesitation."
— Sarah L. |
"Just finished our ADU garage conversion. The project came in on budget and on schedule — rare in the Bay Area! The rental income already started. Could not be happier with Quartz Construction."
— David R. |
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