As the trusted ADU builder Urbandale families turn to first, Tiny Homes of Iowa is proud to call this established, friendly suburb home. We design, permit, and build accessory dwelling units across Iowa, and Urbandale is right in our backyard. If you have ever driven past the Living History Farms area and admired the deep-rooted neighborhoods nearby, you already understand why so many homeowners here want to add space without leaving the community they love.
This page walks you through what an ADU is, why an Urbandale property is a great fit, how the new statewide law makes building easier, and what permits really cost and take. When you are ready, we are one short call away.
What Is an ADU?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a fully independent small home built on the same lot as your existing house. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping space, and entrance. People also call them tiny homes, granny flats, in-law suites, or backyard cottages.
Our floor plans range from a cozy 475 sq ft Studio+ up to an 816 sq ft two-bedroom. You can browse the layouts on our floor plans page to picture how each one might sit on your property.
Why Build an ADU in Urbandale?
Urbandale is one of the most established family neighborhoods in Polk County, with mature trees, generous lots, and a strong sense of community near the Living History Farms area. That combination makes it an ideal place for an ADU. As your local ADU builder Urbandale homeowners trust, we see folks build for many reasons:
- Housing aging parents close by while keeping everyone independent.
- Multigenerational living that gives adult children or returning relatives their own space.
- Rental income in a desirable, family-friendly suburb where demand stays steady.
- Adding property value to an already sought-after Urbandale address.
Because we are based right here, an ADU builder Urbandale project means short drive times, local familiarity, and a team that knows the area well.
SF-592: ADUs Are Now Allowed By Right
Here is the news that changes everything. Iowa’s new SF-592 law allows ADUs by right in every city and county in the state, including Urbandale. That means you no longer need special approval just to be allowed to build one. Setback requirements still apply, so the unit has to sit a certain distance from property lines, but the days of fighting for permission are over.
This is a major win for Urbandale homeowners. To learn more about how ADUs fit into housing goals statewide, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers a helpful overview of accessory dwelling units.
Permit Timeline and Cost
One of the biggest worries we hear is about red tape. The good news: an ADU building permit in Iowa typically takes only about 3 days to 2 weeks. Costs are modest too, usually ranging from a few hundred dollars up to a couple thousand dollars depending on the city.
As your ADU builder Urbandale partner, we handle the design, permitting, and construction so you do not have to chase paperwork. We will guide you through setbacks, drawings, and inspections from start to finish. Want a sense of overall investment? Visit our pricing page, and explore options on our financing page to see how monthly costs could work for your family.
How We Make It Stress-Free
From the first sketch to the final walkthrough, we take complexity off your plate. We listen to how you plan to use the space, recommend a layout, manage permits, and build a durable, beautiful home that complements your existing house. Our goal is for the process to feel reassuring, not overwhelming.
Ready to talk it through? Schedule a free call and we will answer your questions, no pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really build an ADU anywhere in Urbandale now?
Thanks to SF-592, ADUs are allowed by right across Iowa, including Urbandale. You still need to meet setback rules, which we will confirm for your specific lot before we begin.
How long does the whole process take?
Permits usually run about 3 days to 2 weeks. Design and construction timelines vary by floor plan and site, and we will give you a clear schedule once we visit your property.
Will an ADU fit my established Urbandale lot?
Many homes near the Living History Farms area and the older family neighborhoods have generous yards that work beautifully for an ADU. We will assess setbacks, utilities, and access during your consultation.
As Iowa’s leading custom ADU company and a true Urbandale neighbor, we would love to help. Schedule your free call today and let’s start designing your tiny home.
Service areas we cover
We build ADUs across Iowa. See all of our service areas. Nearby communities: Ankeny, Waukee, West Des Moines, Grimes.