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Yes, you’ll need to get building permits from your local municipality to convert your garage to an ADU. You can get the work covered under a remodeling or general construction permit, which can include permission to run or extend utilities to the space to make it legal. If you also plan on renting the space, you’ll need to apply for a rental permit.

In some cases, a detached garage can be considered extra living space, but you will need to gain permission and comply with your local building code. Depending on where you live, you may need permits for a variety of installations, including electrical work, plumbing, and structural work. Many homeowners make the mistake of converting a garage into a living space without acquiring permits, which can result in hefty fines and even the removal of your hard work. Furthermore, a detached garage doesn’t add to the livable square footage of your home when it’s time to sell.

Homeowners can increase the usefulness of their garage space in other ways, and one option is to extend the length of the garage by making it deeper. The process is similar to traditional garage extensions, but the end product is a garage with a different layout rather than additional parking spaces. 

Costs depend on the size of the garage, material quality, and additional features like lighting or workbenches.