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Bostonia, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

ADU rules in Bostonia, CA, also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances, cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.

Key Facts

Authority
San Diego County (unincorporated)
County section
Zoning Ordinance Sec. 6156
State law
Gov. Code Sec. 66314
Setback
4 ft side and rear
Owner-occupancy
Not required

Summary

Bostonia is unincorporated San Diego County, so accessory dwelling units follow the County Zoning Ordinance (Sec. 6156.x) as constrained by California ADU law. The County no longer requires owner-occupancy; a detached ADU up to 1,200 sq ft is allowed by ministerial permit with 4-foot side/rear setbacks.

Local agencies are prohibited from requiring... front setbacks, and minimum lot size... that does not permit at least an 800 square foot accessory dwelling unit with four-foot side and rear yard setbacks to be constructed.

Source: San Diego County ADU InformationView official code

Full Breakdown

Because Bostonia has no city government, ADUs are approved by County Planning & Development Services under Zoning Ordinance Sec. 6156 and California Gov. Code Sec. 66314. Attached ADUs are capped at 50% of the primary home's floor area up to 1,200 sq ft; the County must permit at least an 800 sq ft detached unit with 4-foot side and rear setbacks. One parking space is required, but it is waived if the ADU is within a half-mile of transit. Owner-occupancy cannot be required. Applications are ministerial and must be approved or denied within 60 days.

Violations & Fines

Building an ADU without permits is a zoning/building violation abatable by County code enforcement; unpermitted work must be permitted retroactively or removed, with possible fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bostonia have its own ADU rules?
No. Bostonia is an unincorporated CDP, so San Diego County's ADU regulations apply, subject to California state ADU law that limits what the County can require.
Do I have to live on the property?
No. San Diego County made the no-owner-occupancy rule permanent, consistent with state law, so you may rent both the ADU and the main house (30-day-plus terms).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bostonia

All Bostonia rules

How Bostonia compares: Easiest Cities to Build an ADU·California rules heatmap·Compare Bostonia to another location·View the California accessory structures overview

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