How to check if your property qualifies for a garage ADU in San Diego
Most single-family properties in San Diego County qualify for a garage ADU under current California law, but a few variables affect what you can build. Here is how to check before calling a contractor.
What you'll learn
- How to look up your property's zoning and lot size on the City of San Diego or county assessor website
- What state law changed about ADU eligibility and which local restrictions no longer apply
- How to confirm whether your property is in a High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (affects some conversions)
- What to ask your local building department if online tools do not give you a clear answer
Step by step
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
[object Object]
Rather have a pro handle it?
Same-day electrical service across San Diego County. A real electrician picks up.
Keep learning.
How to verify a garage conversion contractor license in California
Before signing any contract for a garage conversion, verify the contractor's license through the CSLB. It takes five minutes and protects you from unlicensed workers who cannot legally pull permits or be inspected.
How to measure your garage before a conversion estimate
Coming to a contractor meeting with accurate measurements saves time and produces more accurate quotes. Most homeowners can take the five measurements that matter in under 20 minutes.
How to prepare your garage before conversion work starts
Clearing and prepping the garage before the crew arrives saves time on the first day of work and helps the contractor do a thorough assessment. Most of this takes one weekend.