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Which path is mine?

Garage conversions

A garage conversion can become three different things, and which one decides your rules, your cost and your timeline. Here is how to tell them apart.

The deciding question

Does it get its own kitchen and its own entrance?

That one answer determines which of the three paths below you are on — and they are governed by different rules.

An efficiency kitchen and its own entrance, inside the existing footprint. The cheapest path, with an owner-occupancy condition.

A full kitchen and independent access, treated as a separate dwelling. Highest rent, most involved permitting.

No separate kitchen or entrance — a room, not a unit. Permitted as a remodel, with ceiling height, light and egress to satisfy.

  • Parking replacementMay be required when a garage is converted, depending on your jurisdiction
See regulations by city.

Start with a free consultation.

Under an hour, no pressure — we talk through what your lot allows and give you a ballpark for your property. No charge, and no obligation to go further.