ADU
Regulations

How a true Home Base is created

ADU Regulations

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), sometimes called granny flats, backyard cottages, or second units, are a practical way for California homeowners to add living space, create long-term rental options, and increase property value. California state law requires virtually every city to allow ADUs, but local rules still vary on items like size limits, permits, setbacks, parking, fees, and rental restrictions.

At Homebase, we help homeowners and developers navigate both statewide standards and city-specific requirements, from San Diego beaches to inland residential neighborhoods. Below is a clear breakdown of what to know before you build.

ADU Types

Detatched ADU

A separate unit on the lot. Often the most flexible option for privacy and layout.

Attached ADU

A unit connected to the main home. Usually shares a wall and follows more of the main home’s building envelope.

Garage Conversion

Converts an existing garage or accessory structure into an ADU. This path can avoid some placement challenges, but upgrades are typically required for fire, energy, and life safety.

Internal ADU

Converts existing interior space under the main roof. If it is a JADU, it has tighter size and kitchen rules.

Key Regulations

 

This section is the “real content” most homeowners are looking for. The numbers below are statewide baselines or widely used standards, but final rules depend on your jurisdiction and site conditions. 

  • Detached ADU: in a compliant ordinance framework, the maximum unit size is commonly up to 1,200 sq ft.
  • Attached ADU: commonly up to 50% of the existing primary dwelling floor area, with a cap often referenced at 1,200 sq ft, and the state also provides an 800 sq ft streamlined allowance under certain conditions.
  • JADU: maximum 500 sq ft.

A JADU uses an efficiency kitchen approach rather than a full standard kitchen layout. The exact configuration can vary, but the intent is a compact kitchen sized appropriately for the unit. 

  • A common statewide baseline for new detached ADUs is 4-foot side and rear setbacks. Front and street-side setbacks are often handled locally.
  • Zero setback situations: in many cases, conversions of existing structures can be allowed even if the structure is already built close to, or on, a property line. This is one reason garage conversions can be powerful on tight lots.

Height limits vary by jurisdiction and zone. Some areas use baseline limits (and allow more near transit), but you should confirm the exact rule for the address. 

Parking is often not required under common exemptions, especially for conversions or when the property is near transit. Parking rules can still change based on jurisdiction and overlay conditions. 

Most ADUs require a building permit and plan review. Some sites add extra review layers (coastal, historic, fire access). 

Fee schedules and timing vary by jurisdiction and unit size. Many jurisdictions reduce fees below certain size thresholds, but the categories and triggers differ by city. 

Rental Rules

  • City of San Diego: ADUs cannot be used for short-term rentals (Airbnb style). Renting an ADU short-term is treated as a code violation, with a narrow exception for certain older companion units.
  • Outside the City of San Diego: rules can vary by city and unincorporated county areas, so confirm before planning around short-term rental income.

Why Homebase ADU Expertise Matters

Navigating ADU regulations requires up-to-date local insight, not just statewide rules. Every San Diego County city or neighborhood has slightly different guidelines that affect:

Unit size & configuration

Setbacks and design compatibility

Parking requirements

Rental restrictions and approvals

Cost impact fees

Homebase helps you cut through the complexity so you can design, permit, and build confidently.

ADU Roadmap

1

Understand What’s Possible

  • Identify the right location
  • Site assessment, utilities and preparation
  • Confirm zoning and setbacks, height limits.
1

2

Create Plans

  • Create code compliant plans
  • Run Title 24 calculations
  • Generate permit ready planset
2

3

File & Pay Fees

  • Digital Intake with San Diego DSD
  • Pay plancheck & impact fees (for properties over 800sqft
  • Track status online
3

4

Navigate Reviews

  • Average 3 1/2 – 4 MO city review cycle
  • Respond to any corrections in 7-10 days
  • Secure approvals from all departments
4

Schedule a consultation today

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