The City of San Diego is a popular destination for those seeking to build or purchase an ADU. An ADU is a small dwelling that is constructed on the same property as an existing single-family home. Given the numerous benefits that adus provide, such as providing an additional source of income and providing an opportunity to have family or friends stay close by, more and more individuals are considering building an ADU.
However, it is important to note that building an ADU requires understanding the regulations and requirements in place to ensure that the ADU meets all local laws and codes. This blog post aims to provide readers with a comprehensive overview of the adu requirements San Diego, so that potential builders and purchasers are aware of their legal obligations and can make informed decisions.
1. Maximum size limitations
Maximum size limitations apply to all adus in San Diego. An ADU typically cannot exceed 1,200 square feet, or 40 percent of the size of the primary residence, whichever is less. Some exceptions may be made for two-story adus, which can be up to 1,500 square feet in size. In addition, any ADU built in conjunction with an existing non-residential use is generally limited to no more than 25 percent of the total floor area of the existing building, or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less.
2. Parking and setback requirements
Parking and setback requirements play an important role in determining where an ADU can be built. All adus constructed in San Diego must have at least one parking space on the premises, with an exception for those located in an area where on-street parking is allowed. Additionally, all adus must meet certain setback requirements, which determine the minimum distance from the property line that the ADU must be located. For example, an ADU must be located at least 5 feet from the side property line and 10 feet from the rear property line.
3. Building permits and inspections
Before starting your ADU project, you will need to secure permits and have your project inspected to ensure it meets all relevant building codes. Building permits are typically obtained from the local government, such as the City of San Diego. The required permits depend on the scope of your project, and you may need multiple permits from different agencies.
In addition, you may need to hire a licensed contractor, such as an architect or engineer, to certify that your project meets all applicable building codes. Once approved, you will need to schedule inspections with the City of San Diego periodically throughout the project.
Conclusion
San Diego is a great place to build an ADU, offering a wide variety of regulations and requirements. It’s important to understand the local laws and regulations for adus and to make sure you have all the necessary permits to build an ADU. With a little bit of research, you can find the best option for you and ensure your new ADU is safe, secure, and in compliance with all local regulations.