Carlsbad
Detached ADUs
Independent living units up to 1,200 sq. ft.
Attached ADUs
offering up to 1,200 sq. ft. with direct connection
Conversion ADUs
Conversion ADUs: Transform Existing Spaces
JADUs
Affordable 500 sq. ft. units within existing homes.
Key Requirements of
Detached ADUs
Maximum Size: Up to 1,200 sq. ft.
Height: Limited to 16 feet (one story). Two-story ADUs may be permitted based on zoning requirements.
Setbacks:
Front Yard: Must follow zoning district requirements.
Side and Rear Yards: Minimum 4 feet from property lines.
Parking:
Rules: Off-street parking is required unless exempt.
Exemptions: Parking is waived for ADUs located near public transit or when converting garages/carports.
Key Requirements of Attached ADUs:
Maximum Size: Minimum 800 sq. ft. and up to 50% of the main residence.
Height: Limited to 16 feet for additions, with zoning-based exceptions.
Setbacks:
Front Yard: Must comply with zoning district rules.
Side and Rear Yards: Minimum 4 feet.
Parking:
Rules: Off-street parking required unless exempt.
Exemptions: Same as detached ADUs—no parking needed near public transit or for garage conversions.
Key Requirements of
Conversion ADUs:
Maximum Size: Varies based on structure size; generally up to 1,200 sq. ft.
Height: Limited to existing building height.
Setbacks:
Front Yard: Zoning district regulations apply.
Side and Rear Yards: Setbacks are exempt for conversions of existing structures.
Parking:
Rules: No replacement parking required for garage or carport conversions.
Exemptions: Parking is waived when conversions are near public transit.
Key Requirements of JADUs:
Maximum Size: 500 sq. ft.
Heights: Limited to the existing home’s height.
Setbacks:
Front Yard: Must comply with zoning requirements.
Side and Rear Yards: Setbacks are exempt if within an existing home structure.
Parking:
Rules: No parking is required for JADUs.
Exemptions: Not applicable—parking is never required for JADUs.
Carlsbad
What is the maximum size for a detached ADU in Carlsbad?
Answer: Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq. ft.
Can I build a two-story ADU?
Answer: Yes, two-story ADUs are allowed with a height limit of 16 feet, subject to zoning.
Are there any parking exemptions for ADUs?
Answer: Yes, ADUs near public transit or garage conversions are exempt from parking requirements.
What is the size limit for attached ADUs?
Answer: Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the main home’s size or a
maximum of 1,200 sq. ft.
How long does the ADU permitting process take in Carlsbad?
Answer: The permitting timeline typically takes 4–6 months.
Do I need a Coastal Development Permit?
Answer: Yes, if your property is in a coastal zone, a permit is required.
What is a JADU, and what are its requirements?
Answer: A JADU is a smaller unit (up to 500 sq. ft.) created within the main
home, with no additional parking required.
Can I rent out my ADU?
Answer: Yes, ADUs can be rented long-term but cannot be rented for fewer
than 30 days.
Do JADUs require owner-occupancy?
Answer: Yes, the property owner must reside in either the primary home or
the JADU.
Are there design requirements for ADUs?
Answer: Yes, ADUs must match the roofing, trim, walls, windows, and color
of the primary residence.
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