The Ultimate Guide to Building an ADU in San Diego
Everything You Need to Know to Get Started
Hi, I’m Michelle Plastiras, a licensed real estate agent in San Diego. I help homeowners and investors find properties with existing ADUs or those with the potential for ADU development.
With San Diego’s housing demand rising, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a smart solution for:
✅ Generating rental income
✅ Creating multi-generational living spaces
✅ Increasing your property’s value
If you’re thinking about building an ADU, here’s what you need to know!
ADU Size & Requirements
San Diego allows ADUs within these size limits:
- Minimum size: 150 sq. ft.
- Maximum size: 1,200 sq. ft.
These regulations ensure your unit is functional and zoning-compliant.
How Many ADUs Can You Have?
San Diego’s ADU-friendly policies allow homeowners to maximize space:
🔹 Convert garages, attics, and basements into ADUs
🔹 Bonus ADU for affordable housing (must be rented to non-family members)
Parking & Garage Conversions
Worried about parking? Here’s the good news:
✅ No additional parking required for ADUs
✅ Garage conversions don’t require replacing lost parking spaces
This flexibility makes ADU development much easier.
What is a JADU?
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a smaller ADU created within an existing home.
🏡 Key Rule: JADUs must be rented for at least 31 days—no short-term rentals like Airbnb.
Building Fees & Waivers
To reduce costs, San Diego waives certain ADU fees:
💰 Plan Check Fees – Required for all ADU projects
💰 Inspection Fees – Due at inspection
💰 Development Impact Fees – Waived for the first two ADUs, lowering costs significantly
These waivers make ADU development more affordable for homeowners.
ADU Permit & Approval Timeline
Wondering how long it takes to get an ADU approved? Here’s the breakdown:
📌 Pre-approval: ~30 days
📌 Corrections Only: If needed, the city will request revisions instead of denying the project
📌 Final Decision: Approval or denial within 60 days
The streamlined process makes ADU development faster than ever!
Key Legislation Impacting ADUs
San Diego’s pro-ADU policies are supported by state laws:
📜 SB 1211 – Simplifies ADU approval & boosts housing supply
📜 AB 2533 – Legalizes unpermitted ADUs built before Jan 1, 2020 via a special permit
If you built an unpermitted ADU, this amnesty program can help bring it into compliance.
Other Key Considerations for Building an ADU
🔥 Fire Safety & Utility Planning
- Must comply with fire safety regulations
- Plan for water, sewer, and electrical connections
🏗 Modular & Manufactured ADUs
- A cost-effective option, but ensure crane access for installation
How to Finance Your ADU
Financing is a key step, and these loan options can help:
🏡 Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
🏡 Reverse Mortgage (Second Loan)
🏡 All-in-One Loan
🏡 VA Financing Options
💰 Need expert financing advice? Connect with Dan Keyes from Western Financial Funding for personalized loan solutions.
📞 Dan Keyes – 619-665-3988
📩 [email protected]
How Does an ADU Affect Property Taxes?
ADUs increase property value, which affects your property taxes:
🔹 Example: If your ADU costs $300K, expect a $3,000 annual tax increase (1% of project cost).
Most ADU-Friendly Cities in San Diego
While ADUs are allowed countywide, these cities have fast approvals & flexible zoning:
🌟 Oceanside
🌟 Encinitas
🌟 Chula Vista
If you're looking for investment-friendly areas, these are great options.
Want to Find a Property with ADU Potential?
Are you looking for a home with an ADU or space to build one? I can help!
Michelle Plastiras
Pacific Sotheby’s
CA DRE# 01961093, NV DRE# 201638
Email: [email protected]
Call: 619-888-2443
🔔 Want more ADU tips? Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for expert insights on San Diego real estate & ADUs!
https://www.youtube.com/@Michelleluxuryrealestate
