Key Differences Between Pool Houses and ADUs

Key Differences Between Pool Houses and ADUs

TLDR: Pool houses and ADUs serve distinctly different purposes. A pool house is an accessory structure designed to complement a swimming pool by offering features such as changing areas and storage. In contrast, an ADU is a fully functional, independent living space that can serve as a separate residence—it is subject to stricter regulations but offers greater potential for rental income and property value increase.

To make informed decisions about property improvements, ensure compliance with local laws, and maximize the long-term value and utility of your property, you’ll want to understand these differences. We’ll break it down below!

What is the Difference Between a Pool House and an ADU?

A pool house is designed to enhance the experience of having a swimming pool on a property. It often incorporates design elements that blend with the outdoor environment while providing a convenient space for relaxation, storage, and changing after swimming. These typical features include:

• Lounge Areas: Comfortable seating for relaxation and socializing by the pool.
• Storage Space: Room for pool equipment, floaties, towels, and outdoor furniture.
• Changing Rooms: Facilities for changing into and out of swimwear, often including bathrooms or outdoor showers.

While a pool house can sometimes include amenities like a bathroom or kitchenette, it’s generally not intended to function as a full living space (though in some cases, it may). An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), on the other hand, is always a self-contained living space secondary to a primary residence on the same property. ADUs can serve various functions, including:

• Guest Accommodation: Providing a place for visitors or family members that typically includes a kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
• Rental Income:Generating income by renting out the unit.
• Home Office or Studio: Serving as a separate workspace or creative area.

ADUs are subject to specific regulations that facilitate their construction and use. In California, laws have been put in place to simplify the permitting process and encourage ADU development as a way to address housing shortages and offer homeowners more flexible living arrangements. These regulations aim to make it easier for people to add ADUs to their properties while contributing to the state’s housing goals.

Pool House vs ADU

To understand these key differences between a pool house and an ADU, take a look at the table below. 

Construction and Space Requirements for Pool Houses and ADUs

ADUs tend to face stricter regulations and require more space than pool houses (though this can vary by local laws!) While ADUs typically need 150-400 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom, pool houses can be as small as 100 square feet. Lot coverage restrictions, setbacks from property lines, and maximum square footage limits are common considerations for both. Homeowners’ associations often have additional rules regarding exterior aesthetics and placement as well.

In Greater San Diego, ADU regulations have become more flexible to address housing shortages. As of 2024, most single-family and multi-family lots can include an ADU, regardless of lot size, with a maximum size of 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling.

Pool houses, classified as accessory structures in San Diego, are generally limited to 1,000 square feet and must be set back at least 5 feet from property lines. Specific rules may vary by municipality, so it’s important to check with local planning departments for current regulations.

Zoning and Setback Requirements

Zoning laws and setbacks, which vary by location, aim to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and manage urban development. In San Diego County, ADUs are usually permitted on residential lots, with size limits that can be up to 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling—whichever is less. They typically require a setback minimum of four feet from property lines. 

Pool houses, often classified as an accessory structure rather than an accessory dwelling, are usually limited to 1,000 square feet and have a minimum setback of five feet from the property line. However, regulations can differ notably between cities within the county. For instance, Encinitas may have specific coastal zone rules, while La Jolla follows San Diego regulations with a community plan overlay district. 

Homeowners should consult their local city’s building department, review any homeowner’s association rules, and consider reaching out to local professionals (like our team at Better Place!) who are familiar with area-specific codes. This will help you avoid potential issues in the planning and construction process. 

Permitting Process

The permitting process can be tedious, so we recommend working with a local company that knows the area’s specific requirements. It involves submitting detailed construction documents to the local authorities, going through a review process, and making any required changes based on their feedback. 

Building near a pool may require submitting extra drawings, such as a detailed site plan showing the proximity to the pool, and could trigger additional inspections during construction.

Can You Build an ADU Near a Pool?

Building an ADU near a pool is possible, and it’s an attractive option for many homeowners. While municipalities generally allow ADUs near pools, they often also impose strict setback requirements to ensure safety and proper space utilization, mandating a minimum distance between the ADU and pool area. Safety is paramount, and California’s pool safety laws must be followed, which may involve barriers like fences, self-latching gates, or pool covers that should not be compromised by the placement of the ADU.

In San Diego, where outdoor living is highly valued, combining ADUs and pool areas is popular. Key considerations include setbacks, safety measures, proper access to both the ADU and the pool, managing drainage, and possibly modifying existing landscaping. Given the complexities, consulting with local building authorities and experienced professionals is crucial to design a project that maximizes the property’s potential while fully complying with local codes.

Can a Pool House or ADU Have a Kitchen or Bathroom?

While bathrooms are usually allowed in pool houses, adding a full kitchen may reclassify them as ADUs. ADUs typically require both amenities but must comply with local building codes and may face occupancy restrictions.

In the San Diego area, Better Place offers options with full amenities. If a pool house is what you’re looking for, designing a kitchenette rather than a full kitchen could be a way to meet local regulations. The additions of these structures can increase property value and usability but could also affect property taxes. Homeowners should consult local authorities and experienced contractors to navigate the specific requirements for their property.

Can a Pool House Be Converted Into an ADU?

Converting a pool house into an ADU is definitely possible (and practical) but it requires careful planning and investment. The cost associated varies depending on existing structures and the necessary modifications.

Key changes include upgrading plumbing and electrical systems, improving insulation, installing a kitchen and bathroom (if the pool house doesn’t already have one), and ensuring the space meets local building codes. While potentially complex, this transformation can be a cost-effective way to add valuable living space or create a rental unit on your property. Success depends on the pool house’s current condition, proximity to utilities, and local regulations governing ADUs.

Choosing Between a Pool House and ADU for Your Property

If you’re still not sure whether to build a pool house or ADU, we can help! As an expert and local design and build company, we’re familiar with the regulations in San Diego and surrounding areas. This familiarity allows us to scope your project in a fast and fully informed manner, saving you the headache of researching regulations yourself. Each city and municipality will have their own regulations and definitions of pool houses and ADUs, which will ultimately determine what, where, and how you can build.

As you contemplate the choice between a pool house and ADU, you may think of some additional questions. If this list doesn’t answer them all, you can always schedule a free consultation with our team.