Accessory dwelling units
ADUs & Mother-in-Law Suites in Lincoln, NE
A private, code-compliant home for aging parents, adult kids, a caregiver — or a renter that helps pay the mortgage. Designed, permitted and built by one local contractor.
Three ways to add a second home to your lot
Attached in-law suite
A bedroom, bath and kitchenette added onto the house with its own entrance — the most affordable option and the easiest to permit.
Garage apartment
A new garage with a full apartment above, or a conversion of the garage you already have. Keeps the yard and adds serious value.
Detached backyard cottage
A stand-alone small home — typically 400 to 900 sq ft — with full kitchen and bath. Maximum privacy and the strongest rental option.
Can I build one on my lot?
Lincoln allows accessory dwelling units in most residential zones, but size limits, setbacks, parking and owner-occupancy rules vary by lot. Before you pay for drawings, we’ll pull your zoning, walk the site, and tell you plainly what you can build and roughly what it will cost. That first visit is free.
What’s included
- Site evaluation, zoning check and budget range — free
- Design and drawings, permit application and inspections
- Foundation, framing, roofing, siding, windows and doors — our crews and trusted local installers
- Electrical, plumbing and HVAC coordinated under one contract
- Accessibility options: zero-step entry, wider doors, walk-in shower
- Financing available
Why an ADU makes sense
Assisted living in Lincoln runs thousands of dollars a month. A mother-in-law suite keeps family close, keeps them independent, and the space is still there — as an office, guest house or rental — when it’s no longer needed. Done right, it’s one of the few home projects that pays for itself.
ADU styles we can build
Example designs to spark ideas. Every unit is drawn for your lot, your budget and Lincoln’s zoning.
First two photos are design examples, not our projects. See our completed work.
Related services
- Garages, additions & ADUs — All of our construction services.
- Roofing — Roofing for the new structure.
- Siding — Siding matched to the main house.
- Replacement windows & doors — ProVia windows and doors for the suite.
- Financing — Project financing for qualified homeowners.
Frequently asked questions
Can I build an ADU in Lincoln?
In most Lincoln residential zones, yes — attached suites, garage apartments and detached cottages, subject to size, setback, parking and owner-occupancy rules that vary by lot. We check your zoning for free.
How much does an ADU cost in Lincoln?
It depends on size, whether it’s attached, over a garage or detached, and finish level. We give a written estimate after a free site visit and zoning check.
Can I rent out an ADU?
Rules vary by zoning district and change over time; we’ll walk you through what currently applies to your lot before design starts.
How long does an ADU take to build?
Typically three to six months from permit approval, depending on size and whether utilities need to be extended.
Do you handle the permits and inspections?
Yes — design, permit application and every inspection with the City of Lincoln Building & Safety department.