San Diego, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

San Diego ADU permits are reviewed ministerially under SDMC Chapter 14, Article 1, Division 3 (Accessory Dwelling Units), implementing California Government Code § 65852.2 and § 65852.22. Applications are submitted electronically through OpenDSD; objective standards govern (height, setback, floor area) and discretionary review is prohibited. State law requires the city to act within 60 days of a complete application. San Diego's pre-approved ADU plan program offers a curated catalog of architect-designed plans that have already cleared structural and zoning review, allowing turnaround as fast as 3–4 weeks. Standard detached ADUs up to 800 sq ft, 16 ft in height, with 4-foot side/rear setbacks are permitted statewide as a matter of right (Gov. Code § 65852.2(e)). San Diego allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft under local rules. Junior ADUs (JADUs) up to 500 sq ft within the existing home are permitted under SDMC § 141.0302(c). Solar (CalGreen Title 24) and electrification requirements apply to new construction. ADUs in the Coastal Overlay require a Coastal Development Permit but ministerial standards still control.