Is Your Lot ADU Ready? A 10 Point Checklist for San Diego County
California has made ADUs easier to build, but every lot is different. Before you design anything, check the basics. This checklist shows what to confirm and what to ask.
- Lot basics decide your ADU options
- Utilities and access cause the most surprises
- A short feasibility check saves money
The basics that shape an ADU
Space is the obvious one, but it is not the only one. Where the utilities run, how fire trucks reach the back of the lot, and what is already built all affect cost and design.
How to use the checklist
Check what you already know. Anything unchecked is a question to answer before you hire a designer. The next step shows you where to start.
Common surprises
- Sewer or water lines in the wrong place
- Unpermitted structures that need to be dealt with first
- Easements or slopes that limit where you can build
- Fire access in hillside areas
Next steps
Rules vary by city and change over time, so confirm current requirements for your address. We run a feasibility check and walk you through the options. See ADU consulting and the ADU payoff guide.
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Common questions
How big can an ADU be in California?
State law sets minimums for what cities must allow, and local rules add details. Check your city for current size and setback rules.
Do I need to live on the property to build an ADU?
Rules on owner occupancy have changed over time and differ by situation. Confirm current rules with your city before planning.