ADU Impact Fees: Carlsbad vs El Cajon

Are Carlsbad ADUs charged impact fees?

ADUs under 750 sq ft are exempt from all city impact fees under California Government Code 65852.2(f)(3). ADUs 750 sq ft and larger pay impact fees proportional to the ratio between the ADU floor area and the primary dwelling, per state law.

What does a Carlsbad ADU permit cost?

Per the Carlsbad Master Fee Schedule, permit and plan-check fees typically run $2,000-$4,000. Impact fees are waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft. Larger ADUs add proportional impact fees and Carlsbad USD school fees of about $4.79/sq ft.

Does Carlsbad charge sewer connection fees for an ADU?

Not for ADUs under 750 sq ft - Government Code 65852.2(f)(3) waives all city capacity and connection charges. ADUs 750 sq ft or larger pay proportional sewer capacity fees based on size relative to the primary dwelling.

Are ADU impact fees waived in El Cajon?

Yes for ADUs under 750 sq ft. California Gov. Code §65852.2(f)(3) preempts all local impact fees on small ADUs. ADUs 750 sq ft or larger pay proportionally based on the principal dwelling's size, not the full single-family rate.

What ADU costs still apply in El Cajon?

Standard building permit fees (construction-valuation based), plan-check fees, and water and sewer capacity charges from Helix Water District or Otay Water District if a new connection is required. Property taxes will reassess on the added improvement value.