ADU Permit Requirements in San Diego, California
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in San Diego, California — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $5,250 – $14,850
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Permit Requirements (6 items)
6 required📋 Forms & Applications(1)
📐 Plans & Diagrams(3)
📄 Supporting Documents(2)
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for San Diego, California — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $1,750–$9,000 estimated total
- Step-by-step San Diego Development Services portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
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Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through San Diego Development Services.
- 1
Pre-Approval Screening
Verify ADU compliance with AB 68/SB 13 state requirements and local San Diego ordinance. Most city standards preempted by state law.
- 2
Online Permit Submission
Submit building permit application and documents through San Diego Accela portal
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations and Design, Utility Connection Plans, Title 24 Energy Compliance
- 3
Plan Review
Development Services examines plans for compliance with California code and San Diego municipal code
- 4
Revisions and Resubmittal
Submit revised plans addressing reviewer comments if necessary
- 5
Permit Issuance and Fees
Final approval and payment of permit fees. AB 68 limits processing time.
- 6
Construction with Inspections
Construction phase with required inspections at foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and final stages
- 7
Final Certificate of Occupancy
Final inspection and authorization to occupy ADU
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $3,500 – $9,000 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $1,750 – $5,850 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Foundation and soil inspection per California standards
Foundation and soil inspection per California standards
Framing inspection for structural integrity and fire safety
Framing inspection for structural integrity and fire safety
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Plumbing rough-in and fixture connections
Plumbing rough-in and fixture connections
Mechanical, HVAC, and appliance inspection
Mechanical, HVAC, and appliance inspection
Final inspection including Title 24 energy compliance verifi
Final inspection including Title 24 energy compliance verification
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in San Diego?
- Yes. San Diego requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in San Diego?
- Processing times in San Diego vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 7 steps. Contact San Diego Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in San Diego?
- San Diego requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Calculations and Design, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in San Diego?
- Building without a permit in San Diego can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in San Diego?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to San Diego's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in San Diego?
- ADU permit fees in San Diego typically range from $5,250 to $14,850, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with San Diego.
Related Permits
Other permits in San Diego
ADU permits in nearby cities
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