ADU Impact Fees: Carlsbad vs San Diego

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 San Diego?

Yes for ADUs under 750 sq ft — all local impact fees are waived by state law (Gov. Code § 65852.2(f)). ADUs 750 sq ft+ pay proportional fees, not full single-family rates.

How much can I save by building under 750 square feet?

Impact fees in San Diego typically total $10,000–$30,000 for a new single-family unit. Building under 750 sq ft eliminates this entirely. Permit fees, plan-check, and utility service fees still apply.