San Diego is one of the fastest-growing cities in California, and with the demand for housing on the rise, homeowners are increasingly looking toward Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a way to add value to their properties. Whether you’re considering an ADU for rental income, family accommodation, or extra living space, understanding the latest ADU permit policy changes in San Diego is essential. In recent years, San Diego has made significant updates to its ADU policies, streamlining the approval process, reducing costs, and opening up new opportunities for homeowners. In this article, we will walk you through these changes, explain what ADUs are, outline the costs of building one, and highlight the many benefits of building a permitted ADU.

What is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained living space located on the same property as a primary residence. These units can be used for a variety of purposes, including rental income, housing relatives, or providing extra space for guests. There are several types of ADUs:

• Detached ADUs: A completely separate building from the primary home, often built in the backyard.

• Attached ADUs: A unit attached to the main home, but with a separate entrance.

• Garage Conversions: Converting an existing garage into a living space.

• Basement/Attic Conversions: Converting unused spaces in your home into an ADU.

Building an ADU can be a highly beneficial investment, especially with the changes to San Diego’s ADU permit policies that make the process more accessible for homeowners.

San Diego’s ADU Permit Policy Changes: Key Updates

San Diego has implemented several changes to its ADU permitting process in order to make it easier, faster, and more affordable for homeowners to build these units. These changes are part of an effort to address the housing crisis in California, allowing homeowners to add more living space while complying with local regulations.

1. Streamlined Approval Process

Under San Diego’s updated policies, the approval process for ADUs has been streamlined significantly. The city now uses a ministerial approval process, which means that as long as the project meets the city’s zoning laws, building codes, and other requirements, it can be approved quickly without the need for discretionary review.

• Faster Permits: Homeowners can now expect a quicker turnaround for ADU permit approvals, typically within 60 to 90 days.

2. Relaxed Zoning and Lot Size Requirements

Previously, ADU construction was subject to strict zoning regulations, and homeowners had to meet certain lot size requirements. San Diego has relaxed these restrictions, making it easier for homeowners in residential zones to build ADUs.

• Increased Flexibility: ADUs are now permitted in many more areas, including single-family residential zones, which were previously restricted.

3. No Parking Requirements Near Public Transit

One of the most notable updates is the removal of parking requirements for ADUs in areas close to public transit or within urban zones with ample street parking. This change removes a major barrier for homeowners in urban areas like downtown San Diego, where parking can be limited.

• No Additional Parking Needed: If your ADU is located near public transportation, you may not need to provide additional parking spaces, making it easier to fit an ADU on your property.

4. Increased ADU Size Limits

San Diego has also increased the size limits for ADUs. Detached ADUs can now be up to 1,200 square feet. Attached ADUs have slightly smaller limits, but the increased square footage offers more flexibility for homeowners who want to create larger, more functional spaces.

• More Living Space: The larger size limits mean that you can build an ADU that meets your needs, whether you're creating a full guest house, a rental unit, or housing for family members.

5. Reduced Impact Fees for Affordable ADUs

To encourage the development of affordable housing, San Diego offers reduced impact fees for ADUs that are rented out at below-market rates. This can significantly lower the cost of building an ADU if you plan to offer it as affordable housing.

• Incentives for Affordable Housing: Homeowners who rent out their ADUs at affordable rates can benefit from reduced fees and other incentives, making ADU construction more financially viable.

6. Simplified Utility Connections

San Diego has simplified the process for utility connections (water, sewer, and electricity), which often posed a barrier to building ADUs. By streamlining utility requirements, the city has reduced both the time and cost involved in connecting your ADU to essential services.

• Faster Utility Access: Homeowners will find it easier and less expensive to get their ADUs connected to city utilities, saving money and avoiding delays.