A clear, step-by-step guide to the 2026 ADU permit process in San Diego — from plan check to final inspection. We handle the paperwork, you stay focused on your investment.
Fees vary by jurisdiction within San Diego County (City of San Diego, Chula Vista, El Cajon, La Mesa, etc.).
The City of San Diego permit timeline for a typical ADU is 60–120 days from submittal to issuance. Garage conversions and pre-approved plan ADUs can move faster. Complex detached ADUs with grading or special zoning can take longer.
Yes. All habitable ADU construction requires permits. Unpermitted ADUs cannot be legally rented and create resale issues.
Yes. The City of San Diego maintains a pre-approved ADU plan program that speeds up the permit timeline significantly.
San Diego offers a path to legalize unpermitted ADUs. We can assess your structure and help you bring it to code.
You need a licensed designer or architect to produce permit-ready plans. We include this in our full-service package.