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ADU Checklist in San Diego [FULL]

by Joseph Sheiner

Full ADU checklist in San Diego – a comprehensive guide. Want to build a granny flat and you don’t know where to start? Take a peek here, on our list.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maximize your property’s potential or an investor seeking to capitalize on the booming real estate market, this comprehensive ADU checklist is your roadmap to successfully navigate the granny flat construction process.

San Diego’s increasing housing demands have made ADUs an attractive option, offering flexibility, additional income potential, and housing solutions.

In this meticulously curated ADU checklist, we’ve compiled essential steps, regulations, and considerations to ensure your granny flat project adheres to all San Diego’s ordinances and requirements.

From understanding zoning regulations and permit procedures to selecting the right design and construction team, our ADU checklist in San Diego will equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to embark on this rewarding venture.

Let’s get into the ADU-building checklist together and unlock the full potential of your property in San Diego!

ADU Checklist in San Diego

The ADU checklist in San Diego is a comprehensive guide designed to assist homeowners and property owners who are interested in building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on their property.

An ADU is a secondary dwelling unit that can be added to a single-family residential lot. It can be an attached or detached structure, such as a guesthouse, granny flat, or converted garage.

The ADU checklist in San Diego outlines a step-by-step process to help you navigate the entire granny flat development process. 

It covers important aspects such as understanding ADU regulations, developing a suitable design, gathering necessary documentation, submitting a permit application, undergoing plan review, managing the construction process, obtaining a certificate of occupancy, and considering additional zoning requirements.

The ADU checklist in San Diego acts as a valuable resource for property owners looking to add a granny flat to their premises.

It offers step-by-step guidance, ensuring that you navigate the process smoothly, comply with regulations, and ultimately create a functional and legal ADU space.

Whether you’re looking to create a rental property, accommodate extended family, or add extra living space, the ADU checklist in San Diego is your roadmap to a successful granny flat project.

Design Services are included with Sheiner Construction, for all ADU building projects

We know how big is the ADU building project in San Diego, and that’s why we start with a design, making it possible for you to see the granny flat before we even start the project.

The design services for accessory dwelling units in San Diego are included, for free.

Now, that we highlighted this, let’s continue with the ADU Checklist in San Diego.

How ADU checklist in San Diego can help you?

  1. Clear Guidance: The ADU checklist in San Diego provides clear and concise instructions, making the complex process of building an ADU easier to comprehend. It breaks down the steps, helping you tackle one task at a time.
  2. Compliance: By following the ADU checklist, you can ensure that your granny flat project aligns with all the specific regulations and zoning requirements of San Diego. This will save you time, effort, and potential legal issues.
  3. Documentation: The ADU checklist in San Diego outlines the necessary documents you need to gather and submit during the application process, streamlining the paperwork and minimizing delays.
  4. Expert Review: The plan review stage ensures that your ADU building meets all the necessary regulations, as a team of experts will thoroughly assess your application.
  5. Construction Oversight: Scheduling inspections during ADU construction guarantees that the work adheres to approved plans and local building codes, ensuring a safe and compliant Accessory Dwelling Unit.
  6. Zoning Awareness: The ADU checklist in San Diego highlights important considerations such as zoning restrictions, ADU setbacks, and size limitations. Being aware of these factors will help you plan a successful ADU project.
  7. Completion and Occupancy: our ADU checklist in San Diego guides you through the final inspection and application for a certificate of occupancy, allowing you to legally occupy and utilize your granny flat.

ADU Checklist #1 in San Diego: Preparation

“Preparation” refers to the initial phase of the process where you get ready to start planning and building your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).

We compiled this stage to see the steps that ensure you are well informed and equipped to move forward with your ADU building.

Here’s an overview of what “preparation” is in the ADU checklist in San Diego:

  • Understand the ADU regulations.
  • Develop a design.
  • Gather documentation. You will need to gather a variety of documentation in order to apply for a permit, including:
    • Architectural drawings
    • Site plans
    • Engineering reports
    • Zoning permits
    • Fire department approvals
    • Utility clearances
  • Schedule inspections.

Let’s take them one by one.

Understand the ADU regulations in San Diego.

Before you start planning your ADU, it’s important to understand the specific regulations that apply to your property. 

These regulations will vary depending on the zoning of your property, the size of the ADU, and other factors. 

You can find more information on our post about ADU REGULATIONS in SAN DIEGO, or on the San Diego Development Services Department website.

In my experience, the first step in building an ADU in San Diego is to understand the specific regulations that apply to your property. 

These regulations will vary depending on the zoning of your property, the size of the ADU, and other factors.

Let me show you the things you need to know about ADU regulations in San Diego:

  • Zoning: Make sure that your property is zoned for an ADU. You can check here the ADU zoning setbacks in San Diego.
  • Setbacks: There are minimum setback requirements for ADUs in San Diego. These requirements vary depending on the location of the ADU on your property. For example, an ADU attached to a single-family home must be set back at least 5 feet from the side and rear property lines.
  • Size: There are maximum size limits for ADUs in San Diego. These limits vary depending on the zoning of your property. For example, an ADU attached to a single-family home can be up to 1,200 square feet in size.
  • Parking: You may be required to provide parking for your ADU. The number of parking spaces required will vary depending on the size of the ADU and the zoning of your property. For example, an ADU attached to a single-family home must provide at least one parking space. See more here about ADU parking setbacks in San Diego.

In addition to these general regulations, there are also a number of ADU specific regulations in San Diego that you need to be aware of. 

For example, there are regulations governing the type of construction materials that can be used, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms that are allowed, and the amount of off-street parking that must be provided.

Preparing your ADU design

Once you understand the ADU regulations, you can start developing a design for your Accessory Dwelling Unit.

This includes deciding on the size, layout, and features of the granny flat.

You may want to work with an experienced ADU contractor from San Diego, such as Sheiner Construction, to help you with this process.

Here are some things to consider when developing a design for your ADU:

  • Size: The size of your ADU will be determined by the zoning regulations for your property. However, you can choose the specific layout and features of your ADU within those limits.
  • Layout: The layout of your ADU will depend on your needs and preferences. You may want to include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living room, and/or any other features that you consider, depending on its purpose (renting, extended family, etc).
  • Features: The features of your ADU can be anything you want, but some popular options include decks, patios, porches, and storage areas.

In my experience, here are some real-world examples of ADU designs:

  • A small ADU with a kitchenette and bathroom. This type of ADU would be ideal as an office. Cost effective, fast construction.
  • A medium, one-bedroom ADU with a small kitchen and bathroom. This type of ADU would be ideal for a family member or friend who needs a place to stay. 
  • An ADU with 2 bedrooms, and a fully functional kitchen & bathroom. This type of ADU would be ideal for renting. It can host one person, two persons, or even a family with children.

If neither above fits you, trust me, there is an ADU design that is right for you.

The key is to take the time to develop an ADU design that you are happy with.

For instance, at Sheiner Construction, we always ask a lot of questions before starting the design.

We need to really know our customer, what his goal is, how he or she dreams the ADU design, and then we start.

Also, we build it digitally most of the times, just to make sure we got it well.

Here are some additional tips for developing a design for your ADU:

  • Consider the needs of your intended occupants. If you are building an ADU in San Diego for a guest house or rental property, you will need to consider the needs of your guests or tenants. For example, you may want to include a kitchenette or bathroom in the ADU if you plan to rent it out.
  • Think about the overall style of your home. You want your ADU to blend in with the style of your home, so you will need to choose materials and finishes that complement the existing architecture.
  • Be creative. There are ‘no rules’ when it comes to ADU design, so be creative and have fun with it. The possibilities are endless!

Gather Documentation for your ADU in San Diego

Once you have a design for your ADU, you will need to gather the necessary documentation in order to apply for a permit.

In my experience, the documentation will vary depending on the specific requirements of your project, but it will typically include the following:

  • Architectural drawings: These drawings will show the layout and dimensions of your ADU, as well as the materials and finishes that will be used.
  • Site plans: These plans will show the location of your ADU on your property, as well as the surrounding area.
  • Engineering reports: These reports will assess the structural and engineering requirements for your ADU.
  • Zoning permits: If your property is not already zoned for an ADU, you will need to obtain a zoning permit.
  • Fire department approvals: The fire department will need to approve your ADU plans before you can start the construction.
  • Utility clearances: You will need to obtain clearances from the utility companies that service your property.

In addition to these general documents, you may also need to provide other documentation, such as a survey of your property or a letter from your homeowners association.

The best way to determine what documentation you need is to contact the San Diego Development Services Department, or if you choose Sheiner Construction as your ADU contractor in San Diego, we will make it easier for you.

Additional tips for gathering documentation for your ADU building:

  • Start early. In my experience, it can take several weeks or even months to gather all of the necessary documentation, so it is important to start the process early.
  • Work with a professional. If you are not familiar with the ADU permitting process, it is a good idea to work with a professional granny flat contractor in San Diego. They can help you gather the necessary documentation and ensure that your project complies with all of the San Diego regulations.
  • Be organized. It is important to keep all of your documentation organized in a single file. This will make it easier to track down any documents that you need later on.

By following our tips, you can ensure that you have all of the necessary documentation in order to obtain a permit for your ADU building.

Schedule inspections

Once you have a permit for your ADU project, you will need to schedule inspections at various stages of granny flat construction.

This will ensure that the construction is proceeding according to the approved plans and building codes.

The specific inspections that you will need to schedule will vary depending on the type of ADU you are building and the local regulations.

However, some common inspections (in San Diego) include:

  • Foundation inspection: This inspection will ensure that the foundation of your ADU is sound and properly constructed.
  • Framing inspection: This inspection will ensure that the framing of your ADU is properly constructed and meets the structural requirements in San Diego.
  • Electrical inspection: This inspection will ensure that the electrical wiring in your ADU is properly installed and meets the safety requirements for San Diego.
  • Plumbing inspection: This inspection will ensure that the plumbing in your ADU is properly installed and meets the safety requirements in San Diego.
  • Final inspection: It will ensure that your ADU is complete and meets all of the San Diego regulations.

It is important to schedule inspections as soon as possible after the start of the granny flat construction.

Trust me, it will ensure that any problems are identified and corrected early on, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Additional tips for scheduling inspections (in San Diego):

  • Contact the appropriate authorities early. The authorities responsible for scheduling inspections will vary depending on the type of ADU you are building and the local regulations in San Diego. It is important to contact them early to schedule your inspections.
  • Be flexible with your schedule. Inspections can sometimes be delayed, so it is important to be flexible with your schedule. If an inspection is delayed, you may need to reschedule other inspections as well.
  • Be prepared for the inspections. Before the inspection, make sure that your ADU is clean and free of debris. You should also have all of the necessary documentation on hand, such as your permit and architectural drawings.

By following my above tips, you can ensure that your ADU building is inspected properly and you meet all of the San Diego regulations.

Let me tell you an example of how scheduling inspections can save you time and money:

  • If you wait until the end of construction to schedule your final inspection, you may find that you need to make costly changes to your ADU in order to meet the San Diego regulations.
  • However, if you schedule your final inspection early in the construction process, you will be able to identify and correct any problems early on. This will save you time and money in the long run.

By scheduling inspections early and regularly, you can ensure that your ADU building is built correctly and you meet all of the San Diego regulations. 

Very important, this will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

ADU Checklist #2 in San Diego: Permit application

“In the second checklist for your ADU in San Diego, I will guide you through permit applications and what to do. It will save you money and time.

ADU permit application in San Diego cannot be overpassed, it is a requirement. 

Let me show you what you’ll find in this ADU checklist #2 step:

  • Submit your application. Once you have gathered all of the required documentation, you can submit your permit application to the San Diego Development Services Department. The application fee will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project.
  • Review the plan. Your application will be reviewed by a team of experts who will ensure that it meets all of the necessary regulations. This process can take several weeks.
  • Make revisions. If your application is not approved, you may be required to make revisions to your plans. Once the revisions are made, your application will be reviewed again.
  • Permit Issuance.

Submit your application for your ADU in San Diego.

Once you have gathered all of the necessary documentation, you can submit your permit application to the San Diego Development Services Department. 

The application can be submitted online or in person.

The application fee will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project. 

In my experience, I know for sure it is typically hundreds of dollars.

The application process can take several weeks or even months. 

The time it takes will depend on the workload of the department and the complexity of your project.

Tips for submitting your permit application in San Diego:

  • Start early. In my experience, it is important to start the permit application process early. This will give you enough time to gather all of the necessary documentation and to work through any issues that may arise.
  • Be organized. Make sure that your application is complete and organized. This will help to speed up the review process.
  • Be patient. Trust me, the permit application process can take several weeks or even months (I’ve had clients that waited 8 months). Be patient and don’t hesitate to contact the application department if you have any questions.

How ADU permit application works in San Diego (real-life example):

  1. You start by gathering all of the necessary documentation, such as architectural drawings, site plans, and engineering reports.
  2. You then submit your application online or in person.
  3. The application is reviewed by a team of experts.
  4. If your application is approved, you will be issued a permit.
  5. Once you have a permit, you can start construction.

The permit application process can be a bit daunting, but it is important to remember that the department is there to help you. 

By following these tips, you can ensure that your application is processed smoothly and that you get your permit as quickly as possible.

At Sheiner Construction, we always help our clients and offer them our knowledge for each step on this ADU checklist in San Diego, and more.

Review the Plan with a San Diego reviewer

Once you have submitted your ADU permit application in San Diego, it will be reviewed by a team of experts.

This team will review your plans and documentation to ensure that your ADU project complies with all of the San Diego regulations.

The review process can take several weeks or even months.

The time it takes will depend on the workload of the department and the complexity of your project.

During the review process, you may be asked to make changes to your plans.

This is normal and it is important to be responsive to the reviewer’s comments.

Once the review is complete, you will be notified of the results.

If your application is approved, you will be issued a permit.

Tips for the plan review process:

  • Make sure your plans are complete and accurate. The reviewer will be looking for any errors or omissions in your plans.
  • Be responsive to the reviewer’s comments. If the reviewer asks you to make changes to your plans, be sure to do so promptly.
  • Be patient. The plan review process can take several weeks or even months. Be patient and don’t hesitate to contact the department if you have any questions, or even ask how longer it will take.

How the plan review process works in San Diego:

  1. You submit your permit application with your architectural drawings, site plans, and engineering reports.
  2. The application is reviewed by a team of experts in San Diego.
  3. The reviewer may ask you to make changes to your plans.
  4. Once the reviewer is satisfied with your plans, your application will be approved.
  5. You will be issued a permit and you can start the granny flat construction.

The plan review process is an important part of the permit application process in San Diego.

What I’ve written above will ensure that your plans are reviewed smoothly and you get the permit as quickly as possible.

Here are some examples of common issues that may be found during the plan review process:

  • The plans may not be complete or accurate. This could include missing information, errors in the dimensions, or inconsistencies between the plans and the documentation. If you have a good ADU contractor in San Diego, this issue might not pop-up.
  • The plans may not comply with the San Diego regulations. This could include issues with the size, setback, or parking requirements.
  • The plans may not be safe or structurally sound. This could include issues with the foundation, framing, or electrical wiring. Tell your ADU contractor about this and check the best available solution.

If any of these issues are found, the reviewer will ask you to make changes to your plans for sure.

It is important to be responsive to the reviewer’s comments and to make the necessary changes as soon as possible, and it should be done “yesterday“.

By working with the reviewer to address any issues, you can ensure that your plans are approved faster, and start the granny flat construction as soon as possible.

Make revisions of your ADU in San Diego.

If the reviewer of your permit application in San Diego finds any issues with your plans, you will be asked to make revisions. 

This is a normal part of the plan review process in San Diego and it is important to be responsive to the reviewer’s comments.

The reviewer may ask you to make changes to your plans for a variety of reasons.

For instance, the reviewer may ask you to make changes to the size, setback, or parking requirements of your ADU.

He or she may also ask you to make changes to the structural soundness or safety of your ADU.

Once you have made the revisions, you will need to resubmit your permit application.

The reviewer will then review your revised plans and determine whether they are approved.

My tips for making revisions to your permit application:

  • Make the revisions promptly. The reviewer will be waiting for your revised plans, so it is important to make them fast. This will also affect the speed on permit approval.
  • Be clear about the changes you have made. The reviewer needs to be able to see what changes you have made to your plans. Do not play with it and do not try to trick them!
  • Be responsive to the reviewer’s comments. If he or she has any questions about your revisions, be sure to answer them promptly. If you have a good ADU contractor in San Diego, you can ask the construction manager to come with you.

Example of how the revision process works based on my experience in San Diego:

  1. The San Diego reviewer finds some issues with your plans.
  2. You make the necessary revisions to your plans.
  3. You resubmit your permit application with the revised plans.
  4. The San Diego reviewer reviews your revised plans and approves them.
  5. You are issued a permit and you can start the granny flat construction – hurray!.

The revision process is an important part of the permit application process.

Follow my tips above, and ensure that your revisions are made smoothly. You will get your permit as quickly as possible.

Examples of common revisions that may be required:

  • Changing the size of the ADU. This may be required if the ADU is too large or too small for the property. YES, you read it well, even smaller ADUs are a problem.
  • Changing a setback of the ADU. This may be required if the ADU is too close to the property line.
  • Adding parking. This may be required if the ADU does not have enough parking spaces.
  • Making structural changes. This may be required if the ADU is not structurally sound.

If you’ll be working with us, you can rest assure as we have the required experience to follow San Diego’s guidelines, and start the construction as fast as possible.

ADU permit issuance in San Diego

Once your plans have been reviewed and approved, you will be issued a permit.

This permit will allow you to start the construction of your ADU.

The permit will specify the specific requirements for your ADU, such as the size, setback, and parking requirements.

It will also specify the inspections that will be required during construction.

It is important to read the permit carefully and to follow all of the requirements.

If you do not follow the requirements, you may be subject to fines or other penalties.

How the permit issuance process works:

  1. Your plans are reviewed and approved.
  2. You are issued an ADU permit.
  3. You start the granny flat construction in San Diego.
  4. You schedule inspections at various stages of construction.
  5. Once construction is complete, you schedule a final inspection.
  6. If the final inspection is passed, you are issued a certificate of occupancy.

The permit issuance process is an important part of the ADU building process.

Common issues that may delay the permit issuance process:

  • Incomplete or inaccurate plans. The reviewer will not be able to approve your plans if they are incomplete or inaccurate.
  • Changes to the plans after they have been submitted. If you make changes to your plans after they have been submitted, you will need to resubmit them for review.
  • Unapproved revisions. If you make revisions to your plans that are not approved by the reviewer, your permit will not be issued.

It is best to avoid these common issues.

ADU Checklist #3 in San Diego: Construction

At last, construction of your granny flat. In this ADU checklist step, your choices are very important. You’ll see why.

Why are your choices very important?

Well, how you choose your ADU contractor in San Diego is how smooth the construction will happen.

Let’s get into it!

  • Hire a contractor. You will need to hire a contractor to build your ADU. Make sure to choose a contractor who is experienced in ADU construction and who is familiar with the local regulations.
  • Schedule inspections. As the construction progresses, you will need to schedule inspections to ensure that the work is being done correctly. For this step in the ADU checklist in San Diego, you can repeat inspection schedule written above.
  • Make revisions, again. If the contractor makes any changes to the plans, you will need to get those changes approved by the city of San Diego. You will need to repeat the ADU checklist steps for making revisions, written above.

Hire an ADU contractor in San Diego

Once you have your permit, you will need to hire an ADU contractor in San Diego.

It is important to hire an contractor who is experienced in building ADUs and who is familiar with the San Diego regulations.

This step is very important, as we had clients who hired us because their last contractor did a terrible job, and did not answer the client’s calls anymore. 

There are a few things you should keep in mind when hiring an ADU contractor in San Diego:

  • Get quotes from multiple contractors. This will help you to get an idea of the range of prices and services available.
  • Check the contractor’s references. This will give you an idea of the contractor’s work quality and customer satisfaction.
  • Get everything in writing. This includes the contract, the scope of work, the timeline, and the payment terms.

Tips for hiring a contractor:

  • Start your search early. This will give you more time to find a qualified contractor and to negotiate a good price.
  • Be clear about your needs. The contractor needs to know what you want and what your budget is.
  • Be prepared to compromise. You may not be able to find a contractor who meets all of your needs and budget.
  • Be patient. It may take some time to find a qualified contractor who is available to start your project.

Example of how the hiring process works:

  1. You get quotes from multiple contractors.
  2. You check the contractors’ references.
  3. You get everything in writing.
  4. You hire a contractor.
  5. The contractor starts construction on your ADU.
  6. You schedule inspections at various stages of construction.
  7. Once construction is complete, you schedule a final inspection.
  8. If the final inspection is passed, you are issued a certificate of occupancy.

Common issues that may arise during the hiring process:

  • Unqualified contractors. There are many unqualified contractors who will try to take advantage of homeowners. It is important to do your research and to hire an ADU contractor in San Diego who is experienced and qualified.
  • High prices. The cost of building an ADU can vary depending on the size, complexity, and location of the project. It is important to get quotes from multiple contractors to get an idea of the range of prices.
  • Poor workmanship. A poorly built ADU can be a major headache. It is important to hire a contractor who will build your ADU to a high standard of quality.

By avoiding these common issues, you will be able to hire a qualified granny flat contractor in San Diego, who will build your ADU to your satisfaction.

ADU Checklist #4 in San Diego: Certificate of Occupancy

After everything you need to endure, the final checklist item is here: certificate of occupancy for your ADU in San Diego. This will entitle you to do what you’ve wanted when started the granny flat project.

You are not done yet until you have the certificate of occupancy.

In this ADU checklist step you will find:

  • Final inspection. Once the construction is complete, you will need to schedule a final inspection. This inspection will ensure that the ADU is safe and habitable.
  • Application for certificate of occupancy. Once the final inspection is complete, you can apply for a certificate of occupancy. This certificate will allow you to legally occupy your ADU.
  • Additional considerations. there are few things you should further consider. Check them out below.

Final inspection for ADU in San Diego

Once your ADU is complete, you will need to schedule a final inspection. 

This inspection will ensure that your ADU is complete and meets all of the San Diego regulations.

The final inspection is the most important inspection of the ADU building process. 

If the final inspection is not passed, you will not be able to occupy your ADU.

Here are some tips for passing the final inspection:

  • Make sure that your ADU is complete and meets all of the local regulations. This includes having all of the necessary permits and early inspections.
  • Have your ADU clean and free of debris. This will make it easier for the inspectors to do their job.
  • Be present for the inspection. This will allow you to answer any questions that the inspectors may have. You can also have your ADU builder besides you, for complete answers.

In my experience, this is how the final inspection process works:

  • You schedule a final inspection.
  • The inspectors come to your property and inspect your ADU.
  • The inspectors issue a report stating whether the ADU meets the approved plans and building codes.
  • If the ADU meets the requirements, you will be issued a certificate of occupancy.
  • If the ADU does not meet the requirements, you will need to make the necessary corrections before the inspectors will issue a certificate of occupancy.

The final inspection is an important part of the ADU building process. 

Make sure that your ADU passes the final inspection, and then, occupy your ADU as soon as possible.

Real-life examples of common issues that may be found during the final inspection:

  • Unfinished work. The inspectors may find that some work on your ADU is unfinished. This could include things like electrical work, plumbing, or roofing.
  • Code violations. The inspectors may find that your ADU does not meet the local building codes. This could include things like the size of your ADU, the setback of your ADU, or the number of parking spaces you have.
  • Safety hazards. The inspectors may find that your ADU has safety hazards. This could include things like exposed electrical wires, loose railings, or missing fire alarms.

By addressing any issues that are found during the final inspection, you can ensure that your ADU is safe and up to code.

Application for ADU certificate of occupancy in San Diego.

Once your ADU has passed the final inspection, you will need to apply for a certificate of occupancy. 

This document will officially allow you to occupy your ADU.

The application process for a certificate of occupancy can vary depending on the city or county where you live. 

However, in general, you will need to submit the following documents:

  • A copy of your building permit.
  • A copy of the final inspection report.
  • A completed application form.

The application form will typically ask for information about your ADU, such as the size, location, and number of bedrooms and bathrooms. 

You may also need to provide additional information, such as a site plan or a floor plan.

Once you have submitted your application, the city or county will review it and issue a certificate of occupancy if your ADU meets all of the requirements imposed by San Diego.

Tips for applying for a certificate of occupancy:

  • Start the application process early. The application process can take several weeks or even months.
  • Be sure to submit all of the required documents. If you are missing any documents, your application will be rejected.
  • Be patient. The application process can take some time, depending how many people are in front of you with their application.

Here is an example of how the application process for a certificate of occupancy works:

  1. You submit your application for an ADU certificate of occupancy in San Diego.
  2. San Diego officials review your application.
  3. If your application is approved, you will be issued a certificate of occupancy.
  4. If your application is denied, you will be notified of the reasons for the denial.

The application process for a certificate of occupancy is an important part of the ADU building process in San Diego.

Common issues that may delay the application process for a certificate of occupancy:

  • Incomplete or inaccurate documents. San Diego’s officials will not be able to process your application if the documents are incomplete or inaccurate.
  • Changes to the ADU. If you make any changes to your ADU after you have submitted your application, at least in San Diego, you will need to submit a new application.
  • Backlog of applications. San Diego reviewers may have a backlog of applications, which can delay the processing of your last one.

By avoiding these common issues, you can help to ensure that your application for a certificate of occupancy is processed as quickly as possible.

Additional checklist considerations for ADU in San Diego.

  • Zoning. In San Diego, make sure that your property is zoned for an ADU. You can check the zoning of your property with the San Diego Development Services Department, or you can check the ADU zoning setbacks on my blog..
  • Setbacks. There are minimum setback requirements for ADUs in San Diego. These requirements vary depending on the location of the ADU on your property.
  • Size. There are maximum size limits for ADUs in San Diego. These limits vary depending on the zoning of your property.
  • Parking. You may be required to provide parking for your ADU. The number of parking spaces required will vary depending on the size of the ADU and the zoning of your property.

ADU Checklist in San Diego: Conclusion

Building an ADU can be a complex process, but it can also be a rewarding one. By following this checklist, you can ensure that your ADU project in San Diego is completed smoothly and in compliance with all of the necessary regulations.

Here are some additional tips for building an ADU:

  • Do your research. Before you start the building process, be sure to do your research and understand the San Diego regulations.
  • Hire a qualified contractor. This is one of the most important decisions you will make, so be sure to hire a contractor who is experienced and qualified. You can put Sheiner Construction on your list.
  • Be patient. Building an ADU can take some time, so be patient and don’t get discouraged.

Here are some of our purpose examples of ADUs that have been built by us (Sheiner Construction) in San Diego:

  • A mother-in-law suite: This is a small, self-contained unit that is typically used by an elderly parent or other family member.
  • A rental unit: This is a unit that is rented out to tenants.
  • A home office: This is a unit that is used as a home office or workspace.

ADUs can be a great way to add value to your home and to generate income. 

By following the tips in this guide, you can increase your chances of success and build an ADU that you will be proud of.

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