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Guide to Building an ADU or Granny Flat in San Diego

When it comes to expanding your property or creating a comfortable living space for a family member, building an ADU, granny flat or backyard casitas, in San Diego is the perfect solution.

06/16/2023

This comprehensive guide has everything you need to know about building the perfect granny flat in San Diego.

San Diego Building and Renovation is your trusted source for San Diego granny flats, providing quality and exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re curious about budgeting, navigating regulations and timeline of your build, our guide will be your ultimate go-to resource.
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By: San Diego BR

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With our expertise and comprehensive insights, we’ll empower you with the knowledge and support to successfully bring your granny flat or backyard casitas vision to life.

What is an ADU or Granny Flat

By definition, an ADU is a permanent residential dwelling unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, and is accessory to an existing primary dwelling. ADU’s, often referred to as granny flats have seen an unprecedented surge in popularity among property owners throughout San Diego. This phenomenon can be attributed to the fact that building a separate living space on your single-family home lot can create passive monthly income AND provide a living space for aging family member. With rents rising and lack of affordable housing — many San Diegan’s have found the return on investment by adding an ADU — can be significant.

According to the California Department of Housing and Community Development there are many benefits to homeowners for building an ADU or granny flat.

  • ADU’s are affordable – they are built on an existing single-family lot. Therefore, no land needs to be purchased, and no major new infrastructure or parking is required.
  • ADU’s can provide a good return on investment – when rented out they offer a passive and often lucrative monthly income to the homeowner.
  • ADU’s allow extended family members to be nearby — while also offering privacy.
  • ADU’s can allow seniors to age in place – as they require more care.

What is the Cost to Build a Granny Flat in San Diego? Keeping in mind many factors determine costs – here are general guidelines:

  • Small ADU:                          200 – 300 sq.ft.                 $100,000 to $275,000
  • Medium ADU:                   300 – 600 sq.ft.                  $275,000 – $395,000
  • Large ADU:                          600 – 1,200 sq.ft.              $395,000 and up

When it comes to the cost of building a granny flat in San Diego, there are several factors to consider, such as your specific lot requirements, size, design, and materials used.

San Diego Building and Renovation understands the importance of a budget-conscious granny flat cost solution without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. That’s why they offer a range of ADU design options to fit your budget and preferences.

The San Diego Building and Renovation team of engineers, architects and finance professionals will help identify your goals, analyze your lot feasibility and financial information, then develop a custom plan to build your Backyard Casita.

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San Diego Building and Renovation provides the following step by step assistance:

  • Free virtual or in-person consultation
  • Pre-approved Architectural Plans and 2D/3D/ Design
  • Permit Processing
  • High quality In-house construction
  • Financing options available

San Diego Building and Renovation is an experienced ADU contractor – their team of experts will do a feasibility study for your lot and offer advise reading the best size, design and style to enhance your lot and maximize the ROI.  They will help you choose the right materials and features that align with your vision, creating a functional and beautiful living space that suits your style and goals.

At San Diego Building and Renovation, they understand the cost to build an ADU. When working with their experts, you are guaranteed to have peace of mind knowing that their experienced ADU builders will handle your project with utmost care and attention to detail. Their team prioritizes communication, transparency, and delivering high-quality craftsmanship. Whether you opt for one of their various ADU models or a more custom design, they are committed to providing a seamless building experience and an exceptional final product that exceeds your expectations. Let San Diego Building and Renovation transform your vision into reality and create a granny flat you’ll be proud to call home.

What are the rules for granny flats in San Diego?

According to City of San Diego Development Services there are distinct rules and regulations governing ADUs that must be adhered to in order to obtain project approval. Here are some of the key regulations to consider:

  1. Maximum Size: ADUs in San Diego are limited to a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
  2. Independent Living Facilities: ADUs must feature their own separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and complete living provisions, including sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation facilities. They should be designed to accommodate one or more persons.
  3. Location: ADUs should be situated on lots that already have or are proposed to have a single-dwelling unit or multiple-dwelling units.
  4. Permissible Zones: Single Dwelling Unit zones in San Diego allow for the following: one single primary dwelling unit, one accessory dwelling unit, and one junior accessory dwelling unit.
  5. Floor Area: The minimum gross floor area for both attached and detached ADUs is 150 square feet, while the maximum gross floor area is 1,200 square feet. The gross floor area of an ADU is included in the total gross floor area of the premises.
  6. Parking Requirements: In areas outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone, no parking spaces are required for ADUs. However, within the Coastal Overlay Zone, one off-street parking space is necessary if the property is outside of a sustainable development area and within the Beach Impact Area of the Parking Impact Overlay Zone. Exceptions to the parking requirement include cases where the ADU is 500 square feet or less, the property is within a designated historical district, the ADU is attached to the primary dwelling unit or accessory structure, or the premises is located in a residential permit parking district or near a car share vehicle.
  7. Additional regulations include the ability for property owners to rent out ADUs for a minimum term of 31 consecutive days, and the absence of a requirement for the property owner to live on-site.

It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and it is advisable to consult the official resources and authorities to ensure compliance with the most up-to-date San Diego ADU regulations.

At San Diego Building and Renovation, we are well-versed in the San Diego ADU rules, and thei team is there to assist you in successfully navigating the permitting process. Building a granny flat involves complying with specific regulations and requirements, and they understand the importance of adhering to the San Diego ADU rules to ensure a seamless approval process. Their experienced professionals will meticulously review your granny flat project, making certain that it meets all the necessary criteria and regulations set forth by the local authorities. By entrusting your project to San Diego Building and Renovation you can rest assured they will handle the intricacies of the San Diego ADU rules, providing you with guidance and expertise every step of the way. Let San Diego Building and Renovation help you build an exceptional granny flat that not only meets your needs but also satisfies all the San Diego ADU rules and regulations.

How long does it take to get a permit for an ADU in San Diego?

The timeline for obtaining a permit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in San Diego is subject to various factors, including the complexity of the project and the workload of the permitting departments. Generally, the approval process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months. It is important to note that each case is unique, and the timeframe may vary.

At San Diego Building and Renovation, we understand the significance of a smooth and efficient permit application process. Our team is well-versed in the digital application system and can provide guidance and support throughout. We will assist you in preparing the required documentation and ensure compliance with regulations, increasing the likelihood of a timely approval.

If you have been considering adding an ADU or backyard casitas to your property reach out to San Diego Building and Renovation today and get your project started.  With their expertise and commitment to excellence, they will strive to make the permit application process as seamless and stress-free as possible. Let San Diego Building and Renovation be your trusted partner in navigating the application journey for your San Diego ADU.

Building a granny flat in San Diego offers a remarkable opportunity to expand your property and create a comfortable but separate living space. While considering the cost to build a granny flat is an important factor, it should not overshadow the significance of exceptional quality. At San Diego Building and Renovation, they take pride in delivering outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail in every project. Their team of experienced professionals understands the nuances of building granny flats.

When you choose San Diego Building and Renovation, you not only gain access to their expertise but also their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. They believe in creating living spaces that exceed expectations, ensuring that your granny flat becomes an addition on your property you will be proud. With transparent pricing and comprehensive services, they aim to make the process of building a granny flat a seamless and turnkey experience.

Contact San Diego Building and Renovation now and embark on your journey to add space and value to your property by building a beautiful granny flat, ADU or backyard casitas with San Diego Building and Renovation.

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