ADU Permit in San Diego – Complete Guide for Homeowners

ADU Permit in San Diego – A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Introduction

In a city like San Diego, housing demand is increasing every year. People are looking for affordable living options and for this reason the popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) has increased rapidly.

But building an ADU is not limited to just construction. Legal approval and proper ADU permit in San Diego are necessary for this.

If you want to build a granny flat, garage conversion or second unit in your backyard, then you have to understand the rules and regulations of San Diego County.

What is ADU?

ADU i.e. Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a secondary housing unit that is built on existing property.

• It can be a small house, studio apartment or converted garage.

• ADU is used as rental income, family housing or investment property.

• ADUs are becoming very popular in San Diego as a solution to housing shortage.

Why is an ADU Permit required in San Diego?

• Legal Compliance – Without a permit, an ADU will be considered illegal.

• Safety Approval – City Inspectors approve ADUs as per Safety Codes.

• Rental Opportunity – You can legally rent a Permitted ADU.

• Increase in Property Value – Having proper permits also increases the market value of your home.

ADU Permit in San Diego – Eligibility

The San Diego City Planning Department has given some clear guidelines:

• Your property should be Residential Zoned.

• Minimum Lot Size Requirement must be met.

• Owner-Occupied Condition is sometimes required (depends on Lot Type).

• There must already be a Primary Dwelling Unit on the property.

ADU Permit Process – Step by Step

1. Site Plan Preparation – First, the Architect/Designer creates a plan for your Lot.

2. Permit Application – File an application with the San Diego Development Services Department.

3. Plan Review – City officials will check your drawings, engineering and compliance.

4. Permit Issuance – After getting approval, you will get a building permit.

5. Construction & Inspection – City Inspector will do verification during and after construction.

6. Final Approval – Your ADU will become legal if the inspection passes.

ADU Permit Requirements in San Diego

Size Limitations

• Detached ADU: Up to 1,200 Sq Ft

• Attached ADU: 50% of Existing Home Size

Setbacks

• Side & Rear Setbacks – Minimum 4 Feet

Height Restrictions

• Detached ADU: Max 16–30 Feet (depends on Lot Type)

Parking Requirements

• In some cases, extra parking space is required.

• Parking relaxation is available in public transit zones.

Utility Connections

• Separate water, sewer, and electricity connections may be required.

ADU Permit Fees in San Diego

• Application Fees – $2,000 to $4,000 (depends on ADU type)

• Impact Fees – Exemptions are available on smaller ADUs.

• Utility Fees – Connection charges are to be paid separately.

Benefits of Having an ADU in San Diego

• Rental Income – You can generate passive income from the extra unit.

• Family Housing – Extra space for aging parents or college kids.

• Property Value – ADU increases the market value of your home.

• Affordable Housing Solution – Helps balance the housing crisis in the community.

Common Challenges in Getting ADU Permit

• Complex Paperwork – Sometimes there is a delay due to incomplete documents.

• Zoning Restrictions – Not every property is eligible.

• High Construction Cost – ADU Building Expense is quite high.

• Inspection Issues – Permit can be rejected if safety standards are not followed.

Tips to Get ADU Permit Approved Fast

• Hire a Professional Architect & Engineer.

• Follow City Guidelines completely.

• Fill the Permit Application Complete & Error-Free.

• Consider Pre-Approved ADU Plans (San Diego City Provides Some).

• Manage budget by taking quotes from multiple contractors.

Conclusion

If you want to take your home investment to the next level then ADU is the best option. But remember – without an ADU Permit in San Diego your ADU will have no legal value.

The permit process is a bit complex, but with proper guidance and professional help, you can get it approved fast.

Once the permit is approved, you can generate rental income, increase property value and create extra space for your family.