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San Diego · Building on your lot

Building on your lot in San Diego

San Diego sets detailed local limits on fences, accessory buildings, home businesses, SB 9 lots, oversized vehicle parking and beekeeping. Fence height depends on the fence type, where it stands and the street it faces.

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Key points

  • Front fences: Solid and chain-link fences at front and street-side property lines are limited to 3 feet; open fences at least 35% open, 6 feet.
  • Accessory buildings: In residential zones, non-habitable accessory buildings combined, not counting garages, are limited to 25 percent of the premises' allowable gross floor area.
  • Home businesses: Home businesses: at most 1 customer at a time and 1 nonresident employee, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday, unless a Neighborhood Use Permit allows more.
  • SB 9 lots: SB 9 lots in single-unit zones are at least 1,200 square feet; a second unit on each is limited to 800 square feet.
  • RV parking: Oversized and recreational vehicles may not park on public streets 2 a.m.–6 a.m. without a valid permit, or within 50 feet of an intersection.
  • Beehives: Apiaries of 2 or fewer hives sit outside required setbacks or 15 feet from the property line and 20 from rights-of-way, whichever is greater.

Each rule below is marked San Diego code or CA state law and links to the section it comes from (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

Practical research questions and checklists

Fences and walls

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
Corner visibility
  • Fences in visibility areas can be at most 3 feet high.
    Applies: Visibility areas; up to 30% of a fence's length may exceed the limits by up to 6 inches.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    Fences in visibility areas shall not exceed 3 feet in height.
Front yard height
  • Solid fences can be at most 3 feet high.
    Applies: On the front or street-side property line; exceptions for major roads and some street-side yards; 30% of length may exceed by 6 inches.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    Solid fences located on the front or street side property line shall not exceed 3 feet in height except as provided in Section 142.0310(c)(1)(C).
  • All-metal chain-link fences can be at most 3 feet high.
    Applies: On the front or street-side property line; 30% of length may exceed by 6 inches; approved exceptions are possible.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    Standard, all metal chain link fences located on the front or street side property line shall not exceed 3 feet in height.
  • Other open fences can be up to 6 feet high.
    Applies: Front or street-side property line; each 6-foot section at least 35% open (75% in Coastal Overlay); visibility-area limits still apply.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    Other open fences are permitted up to 6 feet in height.
  • Solid fences can be up to 6 feet high.
    Applies: Required front or street-side yard next to a major street, primary arterial or freeway; 1 offset per 120 square feet, 12+ inches wide, 4-inch reveal.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    Solid fences located in a required yard that abuts a major street, primary arterial, or freeway, as identified in the applicable land use plan, are permitted up to 6 feet in height if there is at least one horizontal or vertical offset for every 120 square feet of fence area.
  • Walls and fences can be at most 3 feet above the adjacent sidewalk.
    Applies: Required front or street-side yards in La Jolla Planned District Zones 5 and 6; chain-link is prohibited.
    § 159.0401 · code text
    Walls and fences within a required front yard or street side yard shall not exceed three feet in height above the adjacent sidewalk.
Permit
  • A Public Right-of-Way Permit is needed for any part of a fence that extends into the public right-of-way.
    § 142.0310 · code text
    No portion of a fence shall extend beyond the property line of the premises into the public right-of-way without a Public Right-of-Way Permit.
  • A Neighborhood Development Permit can allow up to 20% more fence and retaining wall height.
    Applies: Requires findings of grade differences, the usual nearby fence height, or a health and safety need.
    § 142.0350 · code text
    §142.0350 Neighborhood Development Permit for Height Exception A Neighborhood Development Permit may be requested to permit an increase of up to 20 percent in the fence and retaining wall height limits in Sections 142.0310, 142.0320, 142.0330, and 142.0340. The decision maker may approve a Neighborhood Development Permit for a height exception only if one of the following circumstances exists: (a) The increase in height is justified because of variations in grade on the site or abutting the site; (b) The increase in height is justified because it conforms to the predominant height of fences or retaining walls in the neighborhood; or (c) The increase in height is necessary for the health and safety of persons on the property. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) Ch. Art. Div. 14 2 3 12 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
Maximum height
  • At most 21 feet.
    Applies: Flat-roofed guest quarters or habitable accessory buildings above a garage or accessory building; single-home lots only; no kitchen; not rented or sold separately.
    § 141.0307 · code text
    For guest quarters or habitable accessory buildings located above a garage or other accessory building, the maximum structure height for flat-roofed structures is 21 feet.
  • At most 30 feet.
    Applies: 3:12-or-steeper sloped roofs on guest quarters or habitable accessory buildings above garages or accessory buildings; single-home lots only; no kitchen; not rented or sold separately.
    § 141.0307 · code text
    For sloped-roofed structures with a roof pitch of at least 3:12 (3 vertical feet to 12 horizontal feet), the maximum structure height is 30 feet.
Size or lot coverage
  • At most 25% of the lot's allowable gross floor area.
    Applies: Guest quarters or habitable accessory buildings, attached or detached; single-home lots only; counted in the floor area ratio.
    § 141.0307 · code text
    Guest quarters or habitable accessory buildings may occupy a maximum of 25 percent of the allowable gross floor area of the premises.
  • All non-habitable accessory buildings combined, except garages, can be at most 25% of allowable gross floor area.
    Applies: Residential zones; in the Coastal Overlay Zone, older rules may apply until the Coastal Commission certifies the latest changes.
    § 131.0448 · code text
    However, the square footage of all non-habitable accessory buildings excluding garages cannot exceed 25 percent of the allowable gross floor area of the premises.

Running a business from home

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
Customer visits
  • Only 1 customer on the premises at a time.
    Applies: By appointment, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday, no more than 1 customer per 2 hours, unless a Neighborhood Use Permit allows more.
    § 141.0308 · code text
    §141.0308 Home Occupations Home occupations are businesses conducted by residents on the premises of their homes. Home occupations, including cottage food operations authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 51035, are permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations. An applicant may deviate from the requirements in Section 141.0308(k) through (n) by obtaining a Neighborhood Use Permit in accordance with Section 126.0203. (a) Home occupations are permitted only as accessory uses to a residential use. (b) Any products produced for sale must be manufactured by hand, grown on the premises, or prepared within a kitchen that meets the standards for cottage food operations in a dwelling unit in accordance with California Health and Safety Code section 114365. (c) The home occupation may reduce required off-street parking spaces by one off-street parking space, so long as the reduction does not result in the elimination of all off-street parking spaces. (d) Signs advertising the home occupation are not permitted. Other advertising shall not include the address of the premises. (e) Home occupations, except for horticultural uses permitted in Chapter 13, Article 1, Division 3 (Agricultural Base Zones) and Division 4 (Residential Base Zones), shall be conducted within an enclosed structure on the premises. (f) Materials or products associated with the home occupation on the premises must be stored within an enclosed structure. Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 3 26 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (3-2026) (g) Indoor storage of materials or products associated with the home occupation shall not exceed 1,000 cubic feet for the entire premises or any more restrictive limitations imposed by the Building and Housing Codes or the County Health Department. (h) The operation of the home occupation shall be consistent with permitted residential uses, shall not create any conditions that amount to a public nuisance, and shall not be detrimental to the residential neighborhood by causing increased noise, traffic, lighting, odor, or by violating any applicable ordinances or laws. (i) The resident of the premises shall not rent space to others in association with a home occupation. (j) Only a resident of the premises may engage in a home occupation on the premises. (k) Home occupations may have a maximum of one employee or partner on the premises between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For the purpose of Section 141.0308(k) an employee does not include a resident of the home. (l) Home occupations may have a maximum of one customer on the premises at a time, by appointment only, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Home occupations shall not host customers on the premises more frequently than one customer within a 2-hour time period. (m) Home occupations may have a maximum of one vendor on the premises at a time between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Home occupations shall not host vendors on the premises more frequently than one vendor within a 2-hour time period. (n) A maximum of one vehicle for business-related purposes is permitted on- street in the residentially zoned area and shall be parked in compliance with the regulations in Section 86.0139 if applicable. Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 3 27 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (3-2026) (1) Business-related vehicles may not exceed a one-ton carrying capacity. (2) Tow-trucks are not a permitted home occupation vehicle. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)
Employees
  • 1 employee or partner.
    Applies: One nonresident employee or partner on site, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday, unless a Neighborhood Use Permit allows more.
    § 141.0308 · code text
    §141.0308 Home Occupations Home occupations are businesses conducted by residents on the premises of their homes. Home occupations, including cottage food operations authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 51035, are permitted as a limited use in the zones indicated with an “L” in the Use Regulations Tables in Chapter 13, Article 1 (Base Zones) subject to the following regulations. An applicant may deviate from the requirements in Section 141.0308(k) through (n) by obtaining a Neighborhood Use Permit in accordance with Section 126.0203. (a) Home occupations are permitted only as accessory uses to a residential use. (b) Any products produced for sale must be manufactured by hand, grown on the premises, or prepared within a kitchen that meets the standards for cottage food operations in a dwelling unit in accordance with California Health and Safety Code section 114365. (c) The home occupation may reduce required off-street parking spaces by one off-street parking space, so long as the reduction does not result in the elimination of all off-street parking spaces. (d) Signs advertising the home occupation are not permitted. Other advertising shall not include the address of the premises. (e) Home occupations, except for horticultural uses permitted in Chapter 13, Article 1, Division 3 (Agricultural Base Zones) and Division 4 (Residential Base Zones), shall be conducted within an enclosed structure on the premises. (f) Materials or products associated with the home occupation on the premises must be stored within an enclosed structure. Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 3 26 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (3-2026) (g) Indoor storage of materials or products associated with the home occupation shall not exceed 1,000 cubic feet for the entire premises or any more restrictive limitations imposed by the Building and Housing Codes or the County Health Department. (h) The operation of the home occupation shall be consistent with permitted residential uses, shall not create any conditions that amount to a public nuisance, and shall not be detrimental to the residential neighborhood by causing increased noise, traffic, lighting, odor, or by violating any applicable ordinances or laws. (i) The resident of the premises shall not rent space to others in association with a home occupation. (j) Only a resident of the premises may engage in a home occupation on the premises. (k) Home occupations may have a maximum of one employee or partner on the premises between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For the purpose of Section 141.0308(k) an employee does not include a resident of the home. (l) Home occupations may have a maximum of one customer on the premises at a time, by appointment only, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Home occupations shall not host customers on the premises more frequently than one customer within a 2-hour time period. (m) Home occupations may have a maximum of one vendor on the premises at a time between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Home occupations shall not host vendors on the premises more frequently than one vendor within a 2-hour time period. (n) A maximum of one vehicle for business-related purposes is permitted on- street in the residentially zoned area and shall be parked in compliance with the regulations in Section 86.0139 if applicable. Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 3 27 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (3-2026) (1) Business-related vehicles may not exceed a one-ton carrying capacity. (2) Tow-trucks are not a permitted home occupation vehicle. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)
Permit
  • A Neighborhood Use Permit is needed only to exceed the employee, customer, vendor or business-vehicle limits.
    Applies: Going beyond the home occupation limits on staff, customers, vendors or business vehicles.
    § 141.0308 · code text
    An applicant may deviate from the requirements in Section 141.0308(k) through (n) by obtaining a Neighborhood Use Permit in accordance with Section 126.0203.

Lot splits under SB 9

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
Unit size
  • A second home of up to 800 square feet of gross floor area.
    Applies: Each urban lot split lot in single-unit zones; some base zone rules are waived; floor area ratio limits apply, with exceptions for existing structures.
    § 143.1315 · code text
    construction of a second dwelling unit with a maximum gross floor area of 800 square feet shall be permitted on each of the lots created by an urban lot split
Minimum new lot size
  • Each new lot must be at least 1,200 square feet.
    Applies: Both lots from an urban lot split in a zone that allows single but not multiple homes.
    § 143.1315 · code text
    The two lots shall each be no smaller than 1,200 square feet.
Standards
  • If buildings remain, split so each lot meets, or comes as close as possible to, the zone's floor area ratio.
    Applies: Urban lot splits in single-unit zones; if street frontage or driveway width rules are not met, an access easement must be recorded.
    § 143.1315 · code text
    regulations of the base zone in which the lot is located shall apply, except as specified in Section 143.1310(a) and this section. Ch. Art. Div. 14 3 13 9 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025) (1) The minimum lot area and minimum lot dimensions regulations of the base zone shall not apply and are replaced with the following regulations: (A) The two lots shall be approximately equal in size, provided that one lot shall not be smaller than 40 percent of the lot area of the original lot. (B) The two lots shall each be no smaller than 1,200 square feet. (C) If the lot contains existing structures that will remain as part of the development, the lot shall be split in a manner that complies with or comes as close as possible to compliance with the floor area ratio of the underlying base zone, consistent with Section 143.1315(f)(1)(A) and (B). (2) A lot should be subdivided in a manner that complies with the street frontage and driveway width requirements of the base zone wherever feasible. Development that does not comply with the street frontage and driveway width requirements of the base zone shall record an access easement on the lot to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.

RV and boat parking

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
Parking on the street
  • No parking from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m.
    Applies: Oversized, non-motorized or recreational vehicles on public streets, park roads or lots; exceptions include loading, service vehicles and valid permits.
    § 86.0139 · code text
    §86.0139 Prohibition of Parking of Oversized Vehicles, Non-Motorized Vehicles, and Recreational Vehicles Except as provided in section 86.0140 or otherwise expressly provided to the contrary herein, or unless such parking or standing is authorized by the City Manager and appropriate signs permitting such parking or standing are posted: (a) It is unlawful for any person to park or leave standing upon any public street, park road, or parking lot, any oversized vehicle, non-motorized vehicle, or recreational vehicle between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. (b) It is unlawful for any person to park or leave standing within 50 feet of any intersection of public streets, a public street and park road, a public street and alley, or a park road and alley, as measured from the prolongation of the curb lines or the edge of the pavement of the cross street or alley, any oversized vehicle, non-motorized vehicle, or recreational vehicle at any time. (“Prohibition of Parking of Oversized, Non-Motorized and Recreational Vehicles” added 8-5-2013 by O-20281 N.S.; effective 9-4-2013.) (Amended 7-17-2014 by O-20382 N.S.; effective 8-16-2014.) (Amended 6-22-2016 by O-20655 N.S.; effective 7-22-2016.)
  • No parking at any time within 50 feet of an intersection.
    Applies: Oversized, non-motorized or recreational vehicles; measured from the cross street's curb or pavement edge; exceptions for government and utility vehicles, loading zones and signed areas.
    § 86.0139 · code text
    §86.0139 Prohibition of Parking of Oversized Vehicles, Non-Motorized Vehicles, and Recreational Vehicles Except as provided in section 86.0140 or otherwise expressly provided to the contrary herein, or unless such parking or standing is authorized by the City Manager and appropriate signs permitting such parking or standing are posted: (a) It is unlawful for any person to park or leave standing upon any public street, park road, or parking lot, any oversized vehicle, non-motorized vehicle, or recreational vehicle between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. (b) It is unlawful for any person to park or leave standing within 50 feet of any intersection of public streets, a public street and park road, a public street and alley, or a park road and alley, as measured from the prolongation of the curb lines or the edge of the pavement of the cross street or alley, any oversized vehicle, non-motorized vehicle, or recreational vehicle at any time. (“Prohibition of Parking of Oversized, Non-Motorized and Recreational Vehicles” added 8-5-2013 by O-20281 N.S.; effective 9-4-2013.) (Amended 7-17-2014 by O-20382 N.S.; effective 8-16-2014.) (Amended 6-22-2016 by O-20655 N.S.; effective 7-22-2016.)
  • Exempt from the overnight parking ban.
    Applies: Vehicles showing a valid permit; the intersection rule still applies.
    § 86.0140 · code text
    Section 86.0139(a) does not apply to any vehicle displaying a valid permit issued pursuant to section 86.0143.

Solar panels and EV chargers

San Diego code What San Diego's code adds
EV charger permit
  • An Electrical Permit is required; approved unless there is substantial evidence of a specific health or safety harm.
    Applies: EV charging stations; a Building Permit may also be needed to alter a structure or move an accessible parking space.
    § 141.0419 · code text
    A Building Permit may be required if alterations will be made to an existing structure or to modify or relocate an existing disabled accessible parking space serving the premises.
Solar height and setbacks
  • May extend into required side and rear yards.
    Applies: Accessory solar firmly attached to an allowed structure, or stand-alone systems meeting city rules; Mission Beach and sensitive or historic land rules apply.
    § 141.0418 · code text
    (A) Solar energy systems may encroach into required side yards and rear yards where securely attached to a previously conforming structure or other structure that is permitted to project or encroach into the required setback or angled building envelope plane in accordance with Section 131.0461. Stand alone solar energy systems may encroach into required side yards and rear yards in compliance with Section 131.0461. Ch. Art. Div. 14 1 4 24 San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 14: General Regulations (2-2025)
  • Panels cannot be taller than the existing structure.
    Applies: Panels on a previously conforming structure already over the height limit in the Coastal or Clairemont Mesa Height Limit Overlay Zone.
    § 141.0418 · code text
    the proposed solar panels do not exceed the height of the existing structure
Solar permit process
  • A Process One construction permit, including an Electrical Permit, is required.
    Applies: Residential solar in zones that allow it; structural work also needs a Combination Building Permit.
    § 141.0418 · code text
    decided in accordance with Process One shall be required for the installation of a solar energy system, in accordance with the following: (A) An Electrical Permit is required for a solar energy system. A Combination Building Permit and Electrical Permit is required if the scope of work also includes the development of a new structure or requires structural modifications to an existing structure to support the solar energy system.

Pets, chickens and bees

San Diego code Apiaries of 2 or fewer hives sit outside required setbacks or 15 feet from the property line and 20 from rights-of-way, whichever is greater.

All 3 San Diego rules on pets, chickens and bees, with the code text and the state law underneath →

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

How tall can a fence be in San Diego?

Solid and chain-link fences at front and street-side property lines are limited to 3 feet; open fences at least 35% open, 6 feet.

How big can a shed or accessory building be in San Diego?

In residential zones, non-habitable accessory buildings combined, not counting garages, are limited to 25 percent of the premises' allowable gross floor area.

Can I run a business from my home in San Diego?

Home businesses: at most 1 customer at a time and 1 nonresident employee, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday, unless a Neighborhood Use Permit allows more.

Can I split my lot under SB 9 in San Diego?

SB 9 lots in single-unit zones are at least 1,200 square feet; a second unit on each is limited to 800 square feet.

Can I park an RV or boat at my home in San Diego?

Oversized and recreational vehicles may not park on public streets 2 a.m.–6 a.m. without a valid permit, or within 50 feet of an intersection.

Do I need a permit for solar panels or an EV charger in San Diego?

San Diego's code: An Electrical Permit is required; approved unless there is substantial evidence of a specific health or safety harm. (EV charging stations; a Building Permit may also be needed to alter a structure or move an accessible parking space.) (§ 141.0419); May extend into required side and rear yards. (Accessory solar firmly attached to an allowed structure, or stand-alone systems meeting city rules; Mission Beach and sensitive or historic land rules apply.) (§ 141.0418).

General information, not legal advice.

AI-assisted research · Source checks recorded

San Diego: Building and ADUs

Before selecting design standards or a permit path. Start with a question, collect the records, and follow the cited law.

City of San Diego; county and unincorporated areas require separate research. Source checks do not establish a property-specific outcome. Open questions appear in each verification record.

SD-B01AI-assisted research · Evidence checks recorded

Which rules and permits must be checked for an ADU in San Diego's Coastal Overlay Zone?

For Architect · Builder · Inspector

Check the Coastal Overlay Zone, the permit jurisdiction, and the applicable amendment version before applying an ADU design standard.

View supporting passages (4)
  • SD Municipal Code 141.0302: official PDF · §141.0302(a)(7)(A), printed 14·1·3·2; other coastal rules follow · PDF page 2
    An existing structure may only be converted or reconstructed as an ADU or JADU if the structure conforms to all the following regulations: (i) The wetland regulations in Section 143.0141(b); (ii) The sensitive coastal bluffs regulations in Section 143.0143; (iii) The coastal beaches regulations in Section 143.0144; and (iv) The Supplemental Regulations of the Coastal Overlay Zone in Section 132.0403.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD adopted code update status · 2024 Code Update: ordinance numbers and effective dates
    Ordinances O-21836 2024 Land Development Code Ordinance O-21837 2024 Centre City Planned District and Gaslamp Quarter Planned District Ordinance Effective Dates Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: October 5, 2024 Inside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: September 10, 2026
  • SD Information Bulletin 400 · Editor’s Note: certification warning and named ordinances
    The regulations and guidelines outlined below will become effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone when the California Coastal Commission certifies Ordinance Numbers O-21618 , O-21758 , O-21836 , and O-21989 .

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

Section 141.0302(a)(7) addresses coastal ADU conditions. Sections 126.0702 and 126.0704 address the coastal permit route and exemptions.

View supporting passages (3)
  • SD Municipal Code 141.0302: official PDF · §141.0302(a)(7)(A), printed 14·1·3·2; other coastal rules follow · PDF page 2
    An existing structure may only be converted or reconstructed as an ADU or JADU if the structure conforms to all the following regulations: (i) The wetland regulations in Section 143.0141(b); (ii) The sensitive coastal bluffs regulations in Section 143.0143; (iii) The coastal beaches regulations in Section 143.0144; and (iv) The Supplemental Regulations of the Coastal Overlay Zone in Section 132.0403.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
    Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

This guide concerns City of San Diego ADU research. It does not establish an exemption, an applicable coastal version, or project approval.

View supporting passages (5)
  • SD Municipal Code 141.0302: official PDF · §141.0302(a)(7)(A), printed 14·1·3·2; other coastal rules follow · PDF page 2
    An existing structure may only be converted or reconstructed as an ADU or JADU if the structure conforms to all the following regulations: (i) The wetland regulations in Section 143.0141(b); (ii) The sensitive coastal bluffs regulations in Section 143.0143; (iii) The coastal beaches regulations in Section 143.0144; and (iv) The Supplemental Regulations of the Coastal Overlay Zone in Section 132.0403.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
    Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:
  • SD adopted code update status · 2024 Code Update: ordinance numbers and effective dates
    Ordinances O-21836 2024 Land Development Code Ordinance O-21837 2024 Centre City Planned District and Gaslamp Quarter Planned District Ordinance Effective Dates Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: October 5, 2024 Inside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: September 10, 2026
  • SD Information Bulletin 400 · Editor’s Note: certification warning and named ordinances
    The regulations and guidelines outlined below will become effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone when the California Coastal Commission certifies Ordinance Numbers O-21618 , O-21758 , O-21836 , and O-21989 .

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

How to check

  1. Confirm the parcel and coastal maps

    Record the parcel, City boundary, Coastal Overlay Zone, and permit jurisdiction. Identify whether the City, Commission, or both issue permits.

    View supporting passages (1)
    • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
      (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  2. Describe the proposed work

    Separate conversion of existing space from new construction or expansion. Keep the existing plans and proposed plans together for the exemption review.

    View supporting passages (2)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  3. Review the permit or exemption route

    Compare the proposed work with Section 126.0704 and its exclusions. Record the provision and evidence for any claimed exemption.

    View supporting passages (1)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  4. Match the amendment to its coastal status

    The City's update page lists a September 10, 2026 coastal date for the 2024 update. Review individual amendments separately.

    View supporting passages (2)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

What the facts change

Conditions and the next research action
If the record showsNext research action
Parcel lies in the Coastal Overlay ZoneReview the coastal permit jurisdiction, exemption conditions, and applicable amendment version.
View supporting passages (5)
  • SD Municipal Code 141.0302: official PDF · §141.0302(a)(7)(A), printed 14·1·3·2; other coastal rules follow · PDF page 2
    An existing structure may only be converted or reconstructed as an ADU or JADU if the structure conforms to all the following regulations: (i) The wetland regulations in Section 143.0141(b); (ii) The sensitive coastal bluffs regulations in Section 143.0143; (iii) The coastal beaches regulations in Section 143.0144; and (iv) The Supplemental Regulations of the Coastal Overlay Zone in Section 132.0403.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
    Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:
  • SD adopted code update status · 2024 Code Update: ordinance numbers and effective dates
    Ordinances O-21836 2024 Land Development Code Ordinance O-21837 2024 Centre City Planned District and Gaslamp Quarter Planned District Ordinance Effective Dates Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: October 5, 2024 Inside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: September 10, 2026
  • SD Information Bulletin 400 · Editor’s Note: certification warning and named ordinances
    The regulations and guidelines outlined below will become effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone when the California Coastal Commission certifies Ordinance Numbers O-21618 , O-21758 , O-21836 , and O-21989 .

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

An exemption is claimed for work in an existing structureCheck the precise work and the exclusions. An existing structure alone does not establish an exemption.
View supporting passages (1)

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

Bulletin guidance and amendment status differKeep the affected version unresolved. Match the ordinance and provision to the certified LCP records.
View supporting passages (2)

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

Illustrative example

Illustrative case: an architect proposes a detached ADU on a coastal parcel. The project has no documented permit exemption or amendment review.

Prepare the coastal permit and version review before using the design standard. The parcel's coastal status does not determine the final permit result.

View supporting passages (4)
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
    Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:
  • SD adopted code update status · 2024 Code Update: ordinance numbers and effective dates
    Ordinances O-21836 2024 Land Development Code Ordinance O-21837 2024 Centre City Planned District and Gaslamp Quarter Planned District Ordinance Effective Dates Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: October 5, 2024 Inside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: September 10, 2026
  • SD Information Bulletin 400 · Editor’s Note: certification warning and named ordinances
    The regulations and guidelines outlined below will become effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone when the California Coastal Commission certifies Ordinance Numbers O-21618 , O-21758 , O-21836 , and O-21989 .

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

Records to collect

Download checklist CSV
  • Parcel and coastal maps: Official parcel, overlay, and permit jurisdiction records
    View supporting passages (1)
    • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
      (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  • Existing and proposed work: Permit history, existing plans, and proposed drawings
    View supporting passages (2)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  • Coastal permit or exemption route: Exact provision and evidence for its conditions
    View supporting passages (2)
    • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
      (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
    • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
      Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  • Applicable coastal amendment version: Ordinance number, affected provision, certification record, and effective date
    View supporting passages (2)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

  • Complete source text: Official Chapter 14 PDF; the stored §141.0302 excerpt is incomplete
    View supporting passages (1)

    These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

The checklist starts with every finding marked Unresolved.

Your next deliverable

A coastal review record that identifies the permit route, amendment version, supporting records, and unresolved questions.

View supporting passages (4)
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0702(a)–(c), printed 12·6·7·1 · PDF page 1
    (a) Permits Issued by the City. A Coastal Development Permit issued by the City is required for all coastal development of a premises within the Coastal Overlay Zone described in Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 4, unless exempted by Section 126.0704, or if the proposed project site lies completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or the Deferred Certification Area as described in Section 126.0702(b). (b) Permits Issued by the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption for all coastal development on a project site located completely within the Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction or in the Deferred Certification Area must be obtained from the Coastal Commission. The Coastal Commission Permit Jurisdiction and the Deferred Certification Area are shown on Map No. C-730.1, Map No. C-908, and Map No. C-1028, on file in the office of the City Clerk as Documents No. OO-17067-1, No. OO-18872, and No. OO-21719. (c) Permits Issued by the City and the Coastal Commission. A Coastal Development Permit or exemption issued by the City and the Coastal Commission are required for all coastal development on a premises located partially within the Coastal Commission permit jurisdiction. A Coastal Development Permit from each agency is required for the portion of the project within the agency’s jurisdiction.
  • SD Municipal Code coastal permit procedures: official PDF · §126.0704(a), printed 12·6·7·2; exclusions (1)–(6) follow · PDF page 2
    Improvements to existing structures are exempt, except if the improvements involve any of the following:
  • SD adopted code update status · 2024 Code Update: ordinance numbers and effective dates
    Ordinances O-21836 2024 Land Development Code Ordinance O-21837 2024 Centre City Planned District and Gaslamp Quarter Planned District Ordinance Effective Dates Outside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: October 5, 2024 Inside of the Coastal Overlay Zone: September 10, 2026
  • SD Information Bulletin 400 · Editor’s Note: certification warning and named ordinances
    The regulations and guidelines outlined below will become effective within the Coastal Overlay Zone when the California Coastal Commission certifies Ordinance Numbers O-21618 , O-21758 , O-21836 , and O-21989 .

These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.

Still to verify

  • The section-level history identifies certified amendments. Parcel location and the operative text for the proposed work still need review.
  • The official section editor's note still identifies O-21989 and O-22109 for a coastal certification check.
  • The stored section now includes the full captured source span with 3-2026 body labels. The official PDF has 9-2026 labels. Compare the official text before applying a standard.
  • No parcel-specific permit or rental decision has been made.
Sources and review record

These related references can include stored text or inaccessible publishers. The supporting passages beside each statement identify the sources used for its evidence check.

AI-assisted research with recorded source checks. Open questions remain. Verify current law, effective dates, and property records before a property decision.

SD-B02 · Research pending

What affordability obligations must be checked for San Diego's ADU bonus path?

For Architect · Builder · Inspector. Evidence research and an answer draft are still needed.

SD-B03 · Research pending

What parking and replacement parking rules apply to this coastal ADU proposal?

For Architect · Builder · Inspector. Evidence research and an answer draft are still needed.

SD-B04 · Research pending

What records are needed to evaluate legalization of an unpermitted San Diego ADU?

For Architect · Builder · Inspector. Evidence research and an answer draft are still needed.

SD-B05 · Research pending

How should ADU capacity be evaluated for the existing building on this parcel?

For Architect · Builder · Inspector. Evidence research and an answer draft are still needed.

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