The Rise of ADUs in San Diego: Insights on Costs, Permits, and Neighborhood Impacts
The concept of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) has been gaining popularity in cities all over the United States – and San Diego is no exception. ADUs, also known as granny flats or backyard homes, are secondary housing units that are built on the same lot as a primary residence.
They can be attached to the main house, built above a garage, or stand alone on the property. With their compact size and versatile design options, ADUs are becoming a preferred solution for addressing the growing demand for housing in urban areas.
In San Diego, where, according to Realtor.com, the median home price in 2024 is $946.5K, ADUs are seen as a more affordable alternative to buying or renting a larger home. Additionally, they provide homeowners with the potential for additional rental income or extra living space for family members.
So, what are the costs and permit processes involved in building an ADU in San Diego? And how do they impact neighborhoods? In this blog, we will delve into these questions and more.
Understanding ADUs: What Are They and Why Are They Popular?
Attached ADUs
These share a wall with the main house, making it an extension of the existing primary dwelling unit. This type of ADU is ideal for homeowners who want to maintain close proximity and easy access between both living spaces.
Detached ADUs
As the name suggests, these dwelling units are separate structures from the main house. They can be built in the backyard or side yard, providing more privacy and independence for both the main house residents and the ADU occupants.
Garage Conversion ADUs
This type of ADU involves converting an existing garage into a living space. This is a popular option for homeowners with underutilized garages or who do not have enough space on their lot to build new structures.
Why Are ADUs in Such High Demand?
The appeal of Accessory dwelling units lies in their ability to serve multiple purposes. For homeowners, they offer opportunities for rental income, increased property value, or housing solutions for extended family members. They are particularly attractive in cities like San Diego, where space is at a premium and housing costs continue to rise.
Recent data underscores the trend. A 2023 City of San Diego report found a sharp increase in ADU applications over the past six years. This surge in popularity is attributed partly to changes in local regulations that have made it easier and more affordable for homeowners to build ADUs on their properties.
Cost of Building an ADU in San Diego
While accessory dwelling units can be a cost-effective way to add to your existing space, understanding the financial commitment upfront is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the main cost considerations:
Permitting Fees and Design Costs
Before you can start building an ADU, you will need to obtain a permit from the city of San Diego, which requires paying permit fees. The cost of these fees varies depending on the size and complexity of your project.
You will also need to factor in design costs, which include hiring a contractor to draft plans for your proposed dwelling unit. This will account for a significant portion of the total cost, but it is essential to ensure your ADU meets your needs and local regulations.
Construction Costs
The cost of construction for an ADU in San Diego can vary significantly depending on the size, style, and finishes you choose. However, as a general rule, expect to pay between $300-$500 per square foot for a junior accessory dwelling unit. This estimate includes materials, labor costs, and contractor fees.
Utility Connections and Impact Fees
Utility connections, such as water, sewer, and electricity, will need to be established for your ADU. These costs can vary depending on the location of your property and the distance from existing utility lines.
Additionally, some areas in San Diego may require impact fees to offset the increased demand for local infrastructure. Be sure to research these potential costs before beginning construction.
Financing Options
For many homeowners, coming up with the funds to build an ADU upfront may not be feasible. Fortunately, there are several financing options available that can help make this investment more manageable.
Some possible options include a home equity loan, a personal loan, or a construction loan specifically for ADUs. Be sure to research and explore all available options before making a decision.
Navigating the Permit Process for ADUs
Building accessory dwelling units in the city of San Diego requires navigating a detailed permit process. While recent regulatory changes have simplified the process, there are still critical steps to follow:
Zoning and Planning
In San Deigo, the maximum size for an accessory dwelling unit is 1,200 square feet. However, the allowed size also depends on the size of the primary property and whether there are multiple dwelling units on the lot.
Zoning laws also dictate setback requirements and other parameters for building on your property. Researching and understanding these regulations before designing and submitting plans for your ADU is essential.
Application Process
The process begins with submitting detailed plans to the San Deigo Development Services Department. These plans are reviewed for compliance with building codes and zoning ordinances. It’s advisable to work with an experienced contractor to streamline this step.
Inspections and Approvals
Once construction begins, multiple inspections are required at various stages, including foundation, framing, electrical, and plumbing. Final approval is granted after all inspections are successfully completed.
Common Challenges
Many homeowners face challenges such as delays in plan approvals or unexpected costs during construction. Partnering with a knowledgeable contractor will help anticipate and mitigate these issues.
Neighborhood Impacts of ADUs
Accessory dwelling units bring a mix of benefits and challenges to San Diego neighborhoods.
On the positive side, they can increase property values and offer housing options that appeal to diverse groups, from young professionals to retirees.
However, concerns about increased density and strain on community resources like schools and parking persist. For example, neighborhoods like North Park and Pacific Beach have seen notable increases in ADU developments, with mixed reactions from residents.
While many embrace the benefits, others worry about changes to the character of their communities. Open communication and thoughtful planning can help address these concerns.
The Wrap Up
ADUs offer a unique solution to San Diego’s housing challenges, combining affordability, versatility, and opportunity. From rental income to increased property value, the benefits for homeowners are clear. With careful planning and collaboration with experienced professionals, building an ADU can be a smooth and rewarding process.
Ready to start your ADU journey? Caliber Construction & Remodeling is here to help. We have years of experience building ADUs in San Diego and can guide you through the entire process, from design to final approval.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your ADU dream a reality.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Caliber Construction
Caliber Construction & Remodeling is a San Diego based design build contractor specializing in whole home renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, and ADUs. Led by a female owned team, the company focuses on thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a clear process from start to finish.