The City of San Diego is one of the most ADU-friendly jurisdictions in California. The City's Bonus ADU Program lets eligible homeowners build additional units in exchange for setting some aside as deed-restricted affordable housing — a unique incentive that exists almost nowhere else in the state.
varies
Median Home Value
varies
ADU Rental Range
Very High
ADU Demand
Why San Diego
With a median home value of varies and Very High demand for ADUs, San Diego is one of the best markets in Southern California for ADU investment. Homeowners are earning varies/month in rental income.
City of San Diego Bonus ADU Program allows additional units beyond state minimums
Pre-approved ADU plans available through the City's Companion Unit program
Reduced parking requirements within Transit Priority Areas (most of the city)
Strong rental demand from military, biotech, university, and tourism sectors
Property values typically increase 20-35% with a permitted ADU
City offers waived impact and water/sewer fees for many ADUs under 750 sq ft
Zoning & Regulations
Understanding zoning rules is the first step to building your ADU. Here's an overview of ADU regulations applicable in San Diego based on California state law and local ordinances — including setbacks, size limits, height restrictions, and more.
Local Insight
The City of San Diego's Bonus ADU Program lets eligible homeowners build additional ADUs above state minimums in exchange for setting one or more units aside as deed-restricted affordable housing.
No Owner Occupancy
Build & rent without living on-site
CA State Protected
State law prevents local ADU bans
Reduced Fees
Impact fees waived for smaller ADUs
Based on California state ADU laws (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881, AB 976, SB 897) and San Diego local ordinances. Regulations may vary by specific zoning district and are subject to change. Vision ADU handles all code research, compliance, and permitting for your specific property. Get a free consultation.
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Zoning rules, permit timelines, and financing options — tailored to your area.
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Everything you need to know about Accessory Dwelling Units — types, costs, benefits, California laws, and whether an ADU is right for your property.
Read Article ADU EducationAB 976, AB 1033, AB 434 and more — a comprehensive guide to California's latest ADU legislation and what it means for your project.
Read Article ADU EducationA detailed comparison of the two most popular ADU types — cost, timeline, pros, cons, and which makes more sense for your property.
Read ArticleReal Results
Carlos D.
Garage Conversion · Chula Vista, CA
"Vision ADU completed the garage conversion in 4 months and the quality exceeded our expectations. My parents now live in the ADU and love it."
Robert T.
New Construction ADU · Oceanside, CA
"Built a 2 bed/2 bath detached ADU in our backyard. The finished product looks like a luxury condo. Great tenants paying varies."
Tell us about your property and we'll create a custom ADU plan with estimated costs, rental income projections, and permit timeline.
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ADUs completed across our service area
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Get a free, no-obligation ADU strategy session for your San Diego property. Our team proudly serves San Diego and Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, San Marcos, Encinitas, and 19 more San Diego County cities.