Quick answer: A detached garage costs $30,000–$70,000+ in Los Angeles depending on size, or roughly $90–$150 per square foot. APLA Construction (CA Lic #1136359) handles this throughout Greater Los Angeles.
Building a detached garage adds secure parking, storage, and flexible space to your property, and in Los Angeles it can also lay the groundwork for a future ADU. Whether you need a one-car garage in Highland Park, a two-car build in Encino, or a garage with a workshop in Torrance, a well-built structure adds real value. APLA Construction is a licensed LA general contractor (CA Lic #1136359) that designs and builds detached garages.
A detached garage in Los Angeles typically costs between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on size, finishes, and site conditions. A 2026 guide:
| Item | Typical Cost |
| One-car garage (roughly 250-320 sq ft) | $30,000 to $45,000. |
| Two-car garage (roughly 400-500 sq ft) | $40,000 to $65,000. |
| Garage with workshop or storage loft | $55,000 to $70,000+. |
| Cost per square foot | roughly $90 to $150 in LA. |
Cost drivers include the foundation, roofing to match your home, electrical, the garage door, drywall and finishes, and permits.
Many LA homeowners build a detached garage now and convert it to an ADU later. If that is a possibility, we can build it to make a future conversion easier and cheaper. See our ADU construction services and garage conversion guide.
A detached garage requires a building permit and must meet setback and lot-coverage rules, which vary by neighborhood. APLA prepares plans, confirms zoning, pulls permits with LADBS or your city, and manages inspections. This is a ground-up build, closely related to our new construction services.
From alley-accessed garages in Culver City to workshop garages on larger Valley lots in Woodland Hills, we match the structure to your home and property.
Yes. A new detached garage requires a permit and must meet setback and coverage rules. APLA handles the full permit process.
Yes. Building with a future conversion in mind can save money later. We plan ahead if that is your goal.
Most detached garages take 6 to 12 weeks after permits, depending on size and site.
Size, foundation, finishes, electrical, and whether you add a loft or workshop are the biggest factors.
APLA Construction designs and builds detached garages across Los Angeles. Licensed CA Lic #1136359 — verify on CSLB. Call (818) 818-4419 or email info@aplaconstruction.com for a free estimate.