ADU Builders in San Diego, CA
At ADUs by Avatar, we help homeowners in San Diego navigate the ADU process from start to finish — including feasibility, design, permitting, and construction.
Why San Diego Homeowners Are Building ADUs
San Diego continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in Southern California — and ADUs have become a popular solution for homeowners who want more space without moving.
Many homeowners build ADUs in San Diego to:
- Create long-term rental income
- Build a private unit for family members
- Add a guest suite or home office
- Increase resale value with legal square footage
- Convert unused space (like a garage) into a livable unit
ADU Types Allowed in San Diego
Depending on your property and zoning, the City of San Diego may allow one or more of the following ADU options:
Detached ADUs
A standalone structure built in the backyard. Detached ADUs offer the most flexibility in design and are a great option for homeowners who want a fully independent living space.
Attached ADUs
An ADU connected to the main home, often built as an addition. This can be ideal for homeowners who want the ADU to feel more integrated with the existing house.
Garage Conversions
Garage conversions are one of the most common ADU projects in San Diego. This approach can be a faster and more cost-effective way to add livable square footage.
Junior ADUs (JADUs)
JADUs are smaller units (typically up to 500 sq ft) created within the existing home footprint. They’re a great option for homeowners who want a lower-cost ADU solution.
San Diego ADU Permits and Local Requirements
All ADUs in San Diego require permits and must meet California Building Code standards. Depending on your project scope, you may need:
- Building permits
- Electrical permits
- Plumbing permits
- Mechanical/HVAC permits
- Title 24 energy compliance
- Structural engineering
If your property is located in a coastal zone, hillside area, or special planning district, additional requirements may apply.
ADU Zoning and Development Standards in San Diego
San Diego ADU rules are based on California state law, but the city still enforces local development standards that can impact your project, including:
- Maximum ADU size
- Height limits
- Setbacks from property lines
- Parking exemptions
- Utility requirements
- Placement and lot coverage rules
Because zoning can vary by neighborhood, a feasibility review is one of the best ways to avoid costly design revisions later.
ADU Costs in San Diego, CA
The cost to build an ADU in San Diego depends on factors such as:
- Detached ADU vs garage conversion
- Unit size and layout
- Utility locations and trenching needs
- Site access and grading
- Finish level (standard vs custom)
- Engineering requirements
A garage conversion is often the most cost-effective ADU option, while detached ADUs typically offer the most flexibility and long-term value.
ADU Timeline in San Diego
While every ADU project is unique, most follow a similar timeline:
- Feasibility + Site Review
- Design + Floor Plan Development
- Engineering + Title 24
- Permit Submittal + Plan Check
- Construction + Inspections
- Final Approval + Move-In
The permit timeline can vary based on city workload, project complexity, and whether plan check corrections are required.
Neighborhoods We Serve in San Diego
We work with homeowners throughout the City of San Diego, including neighborhoods such as:
- Clairemont
- Mira Mesa
- University City
- Pacific Beach
- Point Loma
- North Park
- South Park
- Serra Mesa
- Rancho Peñasquitos
Not sure if your property is within City of San Diego limits? We can help confirm your jurisdiction during your initial consultation.
Looking for ADU construction outside the City of San Diego? We also serve homeowners throughout San Diego County.
Explore our full San Diego County ADU hub here!
Serving San Diego County Homeowners
Looking for ADU construction outside the City of San Diego? We also serve homeowners throughout San Diego County.
Explore our full San Diego County ADU hub here!