Chula Vista ADU Requirements: Your Complete Guide to Accessory Dwelling Units

Table of Contents

1. What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

2. Zoning & Location Requirements in Chula Vista

3. Size & Design Regulations

4. Setbacks & Height Restrictions

5. Parking Requirements

6. Permitting Process

7. Financial Incentives

8. FAQ

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained living space located on the same lot as a primary residence. Commonly known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard cottages, ADUs offer homeowners the opportunity to create additional living space for family members, guests, or rental income.

Zoning & Location Requirements in Chula Vista

Chula Vista permits ADUs in various residential zones, including single-family and multifamily properties. However, specific conditions apply:

Single-Family Lots: Allowed one detached ADU or one attached ADU.
Multifamily Lots: Allowed up to 25% of existing non-livable space converted into ADUs, plus two detached ADUs.
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs): One JADU per single-family lot with owner occupancy.

Size & Design Regulations

Detached ADUs: Maximum size of 1,200 sq ft.
Attached ADUs: Maximum size of 50% of the primary home's living area or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less.
JADUs: Maximum size of 500 sq ft.

ADUs must maintain architectural compatibility with the primary residence, including matching materials and colors.

Setbacks & Height Restrictions

Setbacks: Minimum of 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
Height: Up to 16 feet for detached ADUs; up to 18 feet if located within half a mile of a major transit stop.

Parking Requirements

Chula Vista has relaxed parking requirements for ADUs:

No Additional Parking: Required if the ADU is within half a mile of public transit.
Tandem Parking: Permitted on driveways, provided it doesn't obstruct access to the primary residence.

Permitting Process

Homeowners must submit digital plans for ADU construction. A soils report is generally required unless a waiver is granted for certain conditions. Coastal development ADU permits may be necessary for properties within the coastal zone.

Financial Incentives

Chula Vista offers financial incentives for homeowners building ADUs:

Grants and Subsidies: Available for ADUs rented at below-market rates.
Reduced Fees: Development fees, including permits and impact fees, may be waived or reduced.

Check Top ADU Permit Builders in Chula Vista

FAQ

Can I build more than one ADU on my property?

Currently, Chula Vista allows one detached ADU or one attached ADU per single-family lot. Proposals to increase this limit have been considered but not approved.

Are there any restrictions on renting out my ADU?

Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are prohibited. However, long-term rentals are permitted.

Do I need to live on the property to build an ADU?

Owner occupancy is not required for ADUs, except for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs).

How can I check if my property is eligible for an ADU?

Use Chula Vista's zoning lookup tool to verify your property's eligibility.

What are the costs associated with building an ADU?

Costs vary based on size and complexity. Financial incentives may help offset expenses.

Learn more about How to Get an ADU Permit in San Diego