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What are the requirements to build ADU in Escondido?
In Escondido, incorporating an ADU presents a valuable chance to increase your living space and generate rental income. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it's essential to understand the local regulations affecting your property and evaluate the financial feasibility of building an ADU in Escondido City. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Escondido's ADU requirements and key financial considerations to help you plan and execute your project effectively.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Escondido?
In Escondido, one ADU, whether attached or detached from the primary building, can be built on a property that includes a proposed or existing single-family dwelling.
How large can an attached ADU be in Escondido?
In a single-family lot, the size of an attached ADU depends on the lot size:
For lots smaller than 20,000 square feet:
- For 1 bedroom or less: maximum of 850 square feet
- For more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet
For lots 20,000 sq. ft. or more:
- For 1 bedroom or less and more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet
Additionally, an ADU can be attached to a guest house as long as the combined floor area of both structures does not surpass 75% of the main unit.
How large can a detached ADU be in Escondido?
In a single-family lot, the size of a detached ADU is as follows:
For lots smaller than 20,000 sq. ft.:
- For 1 bedroom or less: maximum of 850 square feet
- For more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet
For lots 20,000 sq. ft. or more:
- For 1 bedroom or less and more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 sq ft
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Escondido?
Yes, it's allowed to construct a 2-story ADU. The height limit in the city is 25 feet, which provides adequate space for a two-story structure.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes, efficiency units designated for occupancy by no more than 2 people should have a minimum size of 150 square feet.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space to an ADU is allowed in Escondido.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a single-family house is subject to the height limits specified in the underlying zoning regulations. However, there are exceptions for ADUs: they may be built up to a height of 16 feet regardless of applicable height limits, and if the property is within a half-mile of transit, the ADU may reach a height of 18 feet. Additionally, if the ADU is attached to the primary dwelling unit, it can reach a height of 25 feet.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Escondido allow for multifamily properties?
Escondido allows at least one ADU to be built within non-habitable areas of existing multifamily dwelling structures. Additionally, up to 25% of the units in each existing multifamily dwelling can be converted into ADUs.
A maximum of two detached ADUs is also allowed on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Escondido?
The size of an attached ADU for a multifamily building depends on the lot size:
For lots smaller than 20,000 square feet:
- For 1 bedroom or less: maximum of 850 square feet.
- For more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet.
For lots 20,000 square feet or more:
- For 1 bedroom or less and more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet.
Moreover, an ADU can be attached to a guest house as long as the combined floor area of both structures does not surpass 75% of the main unit's floor area.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Escondido?
For a detached ADU in Escondido for a multifamily building:
For lots smaller than 20,000 square feet:
- For 1 bedroom or less: maximum of 850 square feet.
- For more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet.
For lots 20,000 square feet or more:
- For 1 bedroom or less and more than 1 bedroom: maximum of 1,000 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, the city of Escondido hasn't addressed the possibility of stacking detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
In Escondido, the municipal code doesn't specifically address the attachment of two ADUs to each other.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in multifamily properties.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
The maximum height allowed for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building is determined by the height limits specified for the zoning of that area. However, regardless of the regular height limit, an ADU can be built up to 16 feet tall.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Escondido?
In Escondido, several types of ADUs are permitted, including:
A. Detached ADU: A fully independent structure separate from the main home.
B. Attached ADU: A living unit that is directly connected to the primary dwelling.
C. Converted ADU: Changing unused spaces, like a garage or shed, into functional living spaces with necessary features like a kitchen and bathroom.
Homeowners can choose to build a new ADU or repurpose an existing structure. Converting spaces such as garages or sheds can reduce zoning limitations, like setbacks and height restrictions, and allow for smaller-scale projects. However, renovating older buildings might reveal unexpected problems that could increase costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Escondido?
The minimum setback for side and rear areas is 4 feet.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
While Escondido City hasn't established a specific minimum distance for ADUs from existing buildings, many cities typically require ADUs to be at least 6 feet away from existing structures.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No, setbacks are not required for converting existing structures into ADUs.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Escondido?
You can build an ADU in the front yard only if no other appropriate space on the property can accommodate an ADU of at least 800 square feet. Be sure to follow the required zoning setback rules.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In Escondido, an ADU should have at least one bedroom if it's not intended to be a studio unit.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU requires a full kitchen that is separate from the primary residence.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
If an ADU meets certain standards listed in the Government Code Section 65852.2, the city might not insist on having its separate utility meters. But if the ADU doesn't meet these standards, it could be required to get a new or separate utility connection.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
As specified by the California Building Code, the minimum ceiling height for an ADU in National City is 7 feet.
Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Escondido?
The city does not impose any parking standards for ADUs.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
The city does not impose any parking standards for ADUs.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Escondido?
Getting a permit for an ADU in Escondido takes around 17 weeks to six months. This includes the time it takes to get the building permit and have the plans reviewed. Plan checks for ADU projects are estimated to cost $780.
Does Escondido require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes. In Escondido, you have to submit ADU plans in person, which can make the process take longer and cost more.
Does Escondido require coastal development permits?
No. Escondido does not require coastal development permits in any part of the city.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Escondido?
In Escondido, the decision to hire a licensed professional for ADU design depends on how complex the project is.
How Much Value Does a Mother-in-Law Suite Add to Your Home?
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Escondido?
In Escondido, constructing an ADU costs roughly $325 per square foot. Additionally, there are soft costs to consider, such as permits, architect fees, and engineering expenses. For instance, the total cost to build a 900-square-foot ADU is approximately $330,000, which includes both hard and soft costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Escondido?
The profitability of an ADU depends on the construction costs and the local real estate market. In Escondido, a 900-square-foot ADU holds an estimated market value of around $430,000. With a total project cost of about $330,000, the return on investment is approximately 30%.
You can also evaluate profitability based on potential rental income or the benefits of having family members live on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Escondido?
California's AB 1033 allows local governments to establish guidelines for the sale of ADUs and primary residences as condominiums, provided they follow current development regulations.
In Escondido, the regulations surrounding the sale of ADUs are defined by local laws. An ADU can be sold if it was constructed by an accredited nonprofit organization, if a valid tenancy-in-common agreement exists, or if the city authorizes the separate sale of the ADU and the main residence as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Escondido?
No. In Escondido, ADUs are not subject to rent control. Since they're treated as new construction, regulations like those in AB 1482, which involve rent control, don't apply. This regulation only impacts buildings that are at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Escondido?
To finance ADU construction in Escondido, homeowners can access resources from the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA). Through the ADU Grant Program, eligible homeowners can receive grants of up to $40,000. This funding, part of a statewide effort to support ADU construction, doesn't need to be repaid, providing financial assistance without adding to homeowners' debt.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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