Unit Size. Maximum unit size: a) For parcels less than 10,000 square feet in size: All newly constructed, detached accessory dwelling units shall not exceed 850 square feet, except for an accessory dwelling unit that provides more than one bedroom the accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 1,000 square feet.
The total area of an attached ADU can be up to 50% of the total area of the SFD (but limited to 1,200 square feet max). Exceptions to the 50% limit (but not the 1,200 square feet limit) may apply if the main house has more than one bedroom.
What size ADU can i build? No ADU shall be smaller than 220 square feet. The maximum size of an ADU shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the primary unit`s existing living area, or eight hundred (800) square feet, whichever is less. - i.e: A 1,000 square foot home cannot have an ADU greater than 500 square feet.
What are the new ADU regulations in San Diego? The 2025 regulations expand opportunities for ADU development. Multifamily properties can now have up to eight detached ADUs, unpermitted ADUs built before 2020 have a streamlined path to legalization, and coastal properties benefit from faster permitting processes.
Building Permit Requirement A Building Permit is required to create an ADU or JADU. There are no exemptions. Depending upon the number of dwelling units created by the ADU(s), either a Combination Building Permit or a Building Permit will be issued.
Pursuant to San Diego Municipal Code (SDMC) §129.0114, no structure or portion of a structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the existing use or occupancy classification of a structure or portion of a structure shall be made until the Building Official has issued a Certificate of Occupancy approving that ...
Skipping a building permit for renovations in California can bring a load of headaches: Fines and Fees: The state can hit you with hefty fines, often $500 or more per day of violation. Project Delays: The local building department might halt work until you get a permit and inspections are done.
Construction permits can usually be issued within two months of submittal if the application and plans are complete, and the applicant responds promptly to all requests for additional information.