ADUs, KNOW ABOUT THEM
Begin Your ADU Journey in San Diego Here: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started
Considering an ADU in San Diego but overwhelmed with questions? You're at the right starting line. This guide simplifies your journey, offering the insights and essentials needed to kickstart your ADU project with confidence.
¿WHAT
EVEN
IS
AN ADU?
In the housing and construction industry, the acronym ADU refers to an "accessory dwelling unit." It's essentially a secondary living area located on a property zoned for either single or multiple families. Options for ADUs include being a separate structure on the property, like a backyard home; an attachment to the main house, such as converting a garage; or a section within the main house, offering a distinct living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance.
ADUs, also known by names such as "garden cottages," "in-law suites," or "granny flats," present a versatile solution for urban areas grappling with housing shortages. They allow homeowners the flexibility to enhance their property's utility, whether for extending living space to accommodate family members, securing an additional stream of income through rentals, or for other tailored uses.
WHAT TYPES OF ADUS CAN I MAKE AND WHERE CAN THEY BE INSTALLED?
ADUs offer a range of configurations, from "detached" units that stand alone on your property to extensions or conversions of existing spaces, like garages, into additional living areas. This variety enables property owners to select an ADU model that aligns with their specific requirements and the layout of their property. However, it's important to note that the feasibility of each ADU type is subject to the regulations of your local area.
GARAGE CONVERSION
You might also consider converting an existing structure, like a garage, into an ADU. This method involves adapting the space into a self-sufficient living area, which can either be connected to your main home or stand alone, offering a versatile solution to increase your property's living space.
ATTACHED ADU
Expanding your main house to incorporate an attached ADU adds complexity, as it directly modifies the existing structure. This approach may raise considerations about how the new addition integrates with the current building, introducing potential uncertainties in construction and design alignment.
DETACHED ADU
Consider constructing a detached ADU for additional, independent space away from your main residence. Keep in mind, the specific setback requirements— the minimum distance the unit must be from property boundaries and the existing house—vary by city.
What sets an ADU apart from a guest house?
In San Diego, the size range for ADUs spans from a minimum of 150 square feet to a maximum of 1,200 square feet for both detached and attached units. Attached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary home's area. Standard setbacks for new constructions require a 4-foot distance from side and rear property lines, blending these additions smoothly with the neighborhood's layout and ensuring compliance with local regulations, offering homeowners versatile options for expanding their living space.
Is parking required for an ADU?
Parking rules for ADUs are relaxed, with no requirement for spaces if the unit is near public transit or car-sharing options. When parking is necessary, using the driveway often meets these needs, simplifying the ADU development for homeowners and encouraging more sustainable transportation choices.
What are the minimum and max sizes for an ADU?
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What is a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)?
JADUs present a way to incorporate an extra living space alongside an ADU inside your current home. They need to be situated within an existing or planned single-family residence, such as a garage or unused room, and cannot exceed 500 square feet (though you're allowed to expand up to 150 square feet to meet this limit). Each JADU must include a complete bathroom and a compact kitchen setup with appliances and cabinetry. Furthermore, there are owner occupancy stipulations for ADUs, requiring the homeowner to reside on the property.
REVIEW THE ADU REGULATIONS IN YOUR CITY
ADU regulations have streamlined processes in San Diego, yet individual municipalities maintain unique requirements. Effective planning can accelerate permitting and prevent costly delays.
APROXIMATLEY HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BUILD AN ADU?
The timeline for designing, permitting, and constructing a new ADU typically spans 10 to 18 months, contingent upon factors such as design complexity, location, and site conditions. Design typically lasts 1 to 3 months, permitting 3 to 8 months, and construction 5 to 7 months, though these durations may vary depending on jurisdiction and unit size.
(Please note that all timeframes are subject to variations based on project type and general contractors, which may result in shorter or longer durations.)
