Del Mar ADU Regulations: What You Need to Know

In Del Mar, you are allowed to build up to three additional units on a single-family residential lot: one detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), one converted ADU created from existing space within the primary residence, and one Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU). Only one detached ADU is permitted per property.

As of January 2025, multi-family residential properties in Del Mar can construct detached ADUs at a ratio of one ADU per existing residential unit, with a maximum limit of eight detached ADUs, in accordance with California Senate Bill 1211. Additionally, property owners may convert existing non-livable spaces, such as garages or storage rooms, into ADUs, with the number of conversions limited to 25% of the existing residential units. This percentage is rounded down, but at least one conversion ADU is allowed regardless of property size. For example, a four-unit building can add up to four detached ADUs and convert one existing space, while an eight-unit building could have up to eight detached ADUs and two conversion ADUs.

In Del Mar, the maximum allowable size for a detached ADU is 850 square feet for units with one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms. Attached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary residence’s floor area, up to the same maximum sizes—850 square feet for a one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms. Junior ADUs (JADUs) have a strict maximum size of 500 square feet. Additionally, ADUs of up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage limitations, allowing their construction even on properties that have reached the maximum allowable coverage.

In Del Mar, detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are limited to a maximum of 850 square feet if the unit has one bedroom, and up to 1,000 square feet if it includes two or more bedrooms. ADUs measuring up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage restrictions, allowing construction even if the property has reached its maximum allowable coverage.

Attached ADUs in Del Mar are limited to a maximum size of 50% of the primary dwelling’s habitable area. However, they may not exceed 850 square feet if they have one bedroom or 1,000 square feet if they have two or more bedrooms, even if 50% of the primary home’s area would otherwise allow for a larger unit. These restrictions ensure attached ADUs remain subordinate to the primary residence and maintain neighborhood character.

In Del Mar, the height restrictions for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) depend on their location and whether they are detached or attached. Detached ADUs generally have a maximum height limit of 16 feet but are reduced to 14 feet in sensitive areas such as coastal bluffs, slopes, or canyon overlays. However, detached ADUs within one-half mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor can reach up to 18 feet, with an additional two-foot allowance if the ADU matches the roof pitch of the primary dwelling. Attached ADUs may be constructed up to 25 feet or two stories, whichever is lower, subject to the base zoning regulations. All height restrictions comply with standards defined by the Del Mar Municipal Code to maintain compatibility with the local environment.

In Del Mar, attached ADUs may be constructed up to two stories or a maximum height of 25 feet, whichever is lower, provided they comply with base zoning standards. However, detached ADUs are generally limited to a single story with a maximum height of 16 feet. An exception allows detached ADUs located within a half-mile of public transit to reach up to 18 feet in height, with an additional 2-foot allowance if the roof pitch matches the primary dwelling. ADUs exceeding 16 feet must observe specific setback requirements to ensure compatibility with adjacent properties.

In Del Mar, roof decks are prohibited specifically on detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). This restriction aims to protect privacy and maintain the character of residential neighborhoods. Additionally, ADUs located within 20 feet of the primary dwelling must match its architectural style, materials, and colors.

ADUs in Del Mar must match the primary dwelling’s architectural style, including roof pitch, materials, colors, and finishes, especially if located within 20 feet of the main house. Building facades must be articulated to avoid monotonous walls, windows must be placed to ensure neighbor privacy, and roof eaves must not encroach into required setbacks. These standards ensure ADUs integrate visually and respectfully within existing neighborhoods.

Del Mar does not explicitly limit the number of bedrooms in an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU); however, the maximum allowable size inherently constrains the practical number of bedrooms. Detached ADUs are limited to 1,000 square feet, which typically accommodates two or possibly three bedrooms. Similarly, attached ADUs cannot exceed 850 to 1,000 square feet, depending on bedroom count, which effectively limits the feasible number of bedrooms. All ADUs must comply with applicable building codes and safety standards regarding bedroom design and occupancy.

Yes, Del Mar requires that all Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) include a fully functional kitchen with permanent cooking facilities, food storage cabinets, countertop space for food preparation, and necessary appliances. Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs), however, are only required to have an efficiency kitchen, which typically consists of a small cooking facility, countertop, and cabinets for food storage.

No, an ADU in Del Mar cannot be built without a kitchen. The city requires each ADU to have a complete and permanent kitchen facility, including appliances, cooking equipment, food storage cabinetry, and countertop space. Junior ADUs (JADUs) must have at least an efficiency kitchen, which includes basic cooking appliances, a countertop, and storage cabinets.

Del Mar requires Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to include a fully independent bathroom featuring a sink, toilet, and either a bathtub or shower, providing complete amenities for independent living. In contrast, Junior ADUs (JADUs) may either include their own bathroom facilities or share bathroom access with the primary residence, offering greater flexibility for homeowners.

In Del Mar, an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is typically a fully independent residential unit, detached or attached to the primary home, with its own complete kitchen, bathroom, and utility connections. ADUs can be up to 1,000 square feet, depending on their configuration and number of bedrooms. In contrast, a Junior ADU (JADU) is smaller, limited to 500 square feet, and must be constructed within the existing or proposed primary dwelling. JADUs require an efficiency kitchen but may share a bathroom with the primary home. Additionally, owner occupancy is required for properties with a JADU but not for those with only an ADU.

In Del Mar, ADUs must maintain a minimum side and rear yard setback of four feet. They must comply with the standard front yard setback requirements of the property’s zoning district. Conversions of existing legal non-conforming structures within setbacks are allowed without altering setbacks, provided they comply with building and safety standards. Additional setback regulations apply within specific overlay zones, such as the Coastal Bluff and Beach Overlay Zones, to protect environmental resources.

In Del Mar, new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) require a minimum setback of four feet from side and rear property lines. Front yard setback requirements depend on the property’s zoning district. Structures exceeding 16 feet in height must adhere to the underlying zoning district’s standard setbacks. Properties located in special overlay zones, such as coastal or bluff areas, may have additional or stricter setback requirements to protect environmental and scenic resources.

In Del Mar, a detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) must maintain at least six feet of separation from any existing buildings or structures on the same lot. This minimum separation ensures sufficient access for emergency services, adequate ventilation, and overall safety.

The minimum required distance between a detached ADU and the main house or other existing structures on the property in Del Mar is six feet. This separation is intended to provide adequate space for safety, emergency access, and maintenance.

In Del Mar, building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) within the front yard setback is generally not permitted. ADUs must comply with the standard front yard setbacks established by the property’s zoning district. While California state law ensures local regulations cannot prohibit the construction of an ADU of at least 800 square feet, front yard placement typically remains restricted unless there are unique site-specific conditions that prevent building the ADU elsewhere on the property.

Yes, building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Del Mar requires obtaining proper permits from the City’s Planning and Community Development Department. The permitting process includes plan submission, review for compliance with zoning and building codes, issuance of permits, and subsequent inspections throughout construction. Recent California legislation has streamlined this process, requiring cities, including Del Mar, to issue ADU permits within 60 days of receiving a complete application.

The City of Del Mar accepts digital submissions for Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plan applications. Applicants are encouraged to use the city’s online permitting system to submit applications, plan sets, and required documentation electronically. It is advisable to confirm the current submission procedures and formats directly with the City’s Planning and Community Development Department.

In Del Mar, a soils (geotechnical) report is generally required for properties located within sensitive areas, such as the Coastal Bluff Overlay Zone or steep slope and canyon areas, due to geologic and erosion concerns. For typical ADU projects outside these sensitive areas, a soils report is usually not mandatory but is recommended to ensure soil stability and structural safety. Property owners should consult the City of Del Mar’s Planning Department for property-specific requirements.

In Del Mar, ADUs typically require a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) because the city lies within the California Coastal Zone. However, certain ADUs—specifically those constructed entirely within or directly attached to an existing primary residence without significant structural alterations—may be exempt from obtaining a CDP. ADU projects not meeting these exemptions must secure a CDP, though public hearings are typically not required for ADU-related permits. Property owners should consult Del Mar’s Planning Department to determine applicability.

Del Mar requires a Building Verification Survey for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a standard practice. Specifically, this survey, which verifies compliance with height, setback, and square footage regulations, must be completed and submitted before the framing inspection stage. It is not optional or conditional; rather, it is mandatory to ensure that ADU construction adheres precisely to approved plans and local building standards. For detailed requirements applicable to a particular ADU project, consulting directly with Del Mar’s Planning Department is recommended.

Yes, stormwater mitigation measures are required for ADUs in Del Mar to control runoff and protect water quality. ADU developments must incorporate erosion control measures, proper grading, and stormwater management systems, such as bio-retention basins or other approved infiltration systems. Contractors must adhere to city guidelines, and property owners should coordinate with the City’s Planning Department to ensure compliance with applicable standards.

The ADU plan review process in Del Mar begins with submitting a complete application to the City’s Planning and Community Development Department. Plans undergo initial zoning and code compliance checks, followed by Design Review Board evaluation if required. The timeline for this review typically ranges from six to eight weeks. Following design approval, detailed working drawings must be submitted for a final building permit review, which may include third-party checks by EsGil Corporation. Property owners can anticipate this full process, from initial submission to permit issuance, taking several months depending on the project’s complexity.

In Del Mar, property owners have the option—but are not required—to install separate utility meters for ADUs, with the exception of electricity. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) mandates separate electrical meters for newly constructed ADUs. Gas, water, and sewer services typically can share connections with the primary dwelling unless separate metering is specifically requested by the owner. Costs and requirements vary, so early coordination with utility providers and city planning is recommended.

In Del Mar, property owners have the option—but are not required—to install separate utility meters for ADUs, with the exception of electricity. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) mandates separate electrical meters for newly constructed ADUs. Gas, water, and sewer services typically can share connections with the primary dwelling unless separate metering is specifically requested by the owner. Costs and requirements vary, so early coordination with utility providers and city planning is recommended.

In Del Mar, homeowners associations (HOAs) cannot prohibit the construction of ADUs due to California state law (Assembly Bill 670), which limits HOA authority over ADUs. While HOAs may enforce certain reasonable design standards, outright bans on ADUs are not legally enforceable. Homeowners should coordinate with their HOA and local authorities to ensure compliance with community standards and state regulations.

Yes, ADUs in Del Mar can have their own separate address and mailbox, distinct from the primary residence. This separate addressing must be requested and coordinated with the City’s Planning and Community Development Department. Separate addresses facilitate independent mail delivery, utility service management, and emergency response.

No, Del Mar does not permit constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on a vacant lot without an existing or concurrently approved primary residence. By definition, an ADU is intended as a secondary unit associated with a primary dwelling. To build an ADU on a vacant property, a primary residence must first be established or proposed concurrently.

Yes, in Del Mar, existing non-livable spaces in multifamily properties, such as garages or storage rooms, can be converted into Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The number of these conversion units is limited to 25% of the total existing residential units on the property, with at least one conversion ADU permitted. This policy allows efficient utilization of existing building spaces to increase housing availability.

No, stacking detached ADUs vertically is not permitted in Del Mar. However, detached ADUs may be constructed side-by-side, provided that all city zoning and design standards are satisfied. While two-story ADUs can be permitted if attached or built as part of the primary building, detached ADUs must typically remain single-story structures, subject to local height limitations.

In Del Mar, ADUs can be attached to an existing multifamily building by converting non-habitable spaces (such as storage or garage areas) within the building. However, new construction attached directly to multifamily structures as additional units outside existing building footprints is typically not permitted. Detached ADUs are allowed separately on multifamily properties, limited to one detached ADU per existing residential unit, up to a maximum of eight.

In Del Mar, two detached ADUs may be constructed side by side or attached horizontally; however, stacking detached ADUs vertically (one on top of the other) is not permitted. When constructing side-by-side ADUs, property owners must comply with all applicable zoning regulations, setback requirements, and design standards to maintain neighborhood compatibility.

In Del Mar, combining an ADU and a Junior ADU (JADU) is allowed only on single-family properties, not multifamily properties. Multifamily properties can construct detached ADUs and convert existing non-livable spaces, but they are not eligible to build JADUs, as JADUs must be located within a single-family residence.

In Del Mar, parking requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) depend on their location and specific circumstances. Generally, no parking is required if the ADU is located within one-half mile of public transit, is part of a conversion of existing space, or is situated within a historic district. Additionally, effective January 2025, Del Mar will no longer require replacement parking when an existing garage or carport is converted or demolished to accommodate an ADU. When parking is necessary, it can typically be provided in setback areas or arranged in a tandem configuration.

In Del Mar, required ADU parking spaces may be placed in existing driveways, within side and rear yard setback areas, or through tandem parking arrangements. Tandem and uncovered parking spaces are allowed. Parking can be accommodated within property setbacks if necessary, provided the parking area is improved with a suitable surface, such as paving or decomposed granite.

In Del Mar, permit fees for constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) typically range from around $10 per square foot, with total fees commonly falling between $5,000 and $10,000 depending on the project’s complexity and specifics. Additional fees may apply for larger ADUs (over 750 square feet), including impact and school district fees. Property owners are encouraged to consult with the City of Del Mar’s Planning Department to review exact permit costs and any available fee waivers or incentives.

In Del Mar, typical ADU construction costs range from approximately $375 to over $600 per square foot. Costs vary based on unit size, complexity, site preparation, materials, and finishes. Generally, smaller units (around 500 sq. ft.) tend to cost more per square foot, averaging about $600, while larger units (up to 1,200 sq. ft.) can cost closer to $375 per square foot. Prefabricated ADUs may reduce these costs somewhat, depending on site conditions and specific selections.

Yes, renting out an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Del Mar is permitted, as long as rentals are for periods of at least 30 consecutive days. Short-term rentals under 30 days are prohibited. Currently, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for properties with only a standard ADU. However, properties with a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) must meet owner-occupancy requirements, meaning the property owner is required to live in either the primary residence or the JADU.

No, Del Mar prohibits short-term rentals (less than 30 consecutive days) for ADUs. ADUs may only be rented for terms of 30 days or longer, in line with the city’s objective to maintain and increase long-term housing availability. Short-term rentals such as Airbnb listings are restricted to specific zoning districts (Visitor Commercial or designated areas) and are not allowed for residential-zone ADUs.

No, ADUs in Del Mar generally cannot be sold separately from the primary residence. Current local regulations require the ADU to remain on the same parcel as the main home. The only exception is through specific state-legislated scenarios involving qualified non-profit affordable housing organizations, which may sell deed-restricted ADUs to low-income buyers, though this is limited and subject to local ordinance compliance.

Yes, several grants and financial incentives are available to support ADU construction in Del Mar. The California ADU Grant Program (CalHFA) offers grants of up to $40,000 for homeowners meeting income requirements to help cover pre-development costs such as permits, design fees, and site preparation. Additionally, the City of Del Mar offers local incentives, including the ADU Amnesty Program, which assists property owners in legalizing unpermitted units by potentially reimbursing permit and planning fees. Another incentive program encourages property owners to dedicate their ADUs for affordable housing, providing benefits such as floor area bonuses. Property owners should consult directly with the City of Del Mar or approved CalHFA lenders to explore eligibility and funding availability.

In Del Mar, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) must comply with California Green Building Standards (CALGreen) and Title 24 energy efficiency requirements. These include mandatory water-efficient fixtures, low-VOC materials for improved indoor air quality, waste diversion plans for construction debris, and incorporation of sustainable building materials. Additional local considerations may apply within the Coastal Zone to address coastal resource protection, such as site planning and erosion control measures. Homeowners should consult Del Mar’s Planning Department for detailed guidance tailored to their property.

Yes, ADUs in Del Mar must meet California’s Title 24 energy efficiency standards, including mandatory installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for newly built detached ADUs, energy storage system (ESS)-ready infrastructure, and highly efficient water-heating systems such as heat pump water heaters. Compliance with these standards must be documented and submitted during the permitting process. Homeowners should consult with professionals experienced in Title 24 requirements to ensure their ADU project meets these energy efficiency regulations.

In Del Mar, the timeline for obtaining an ADU permit typically includes approximately 3 to 4 months for the design phase, during which architectural plans and necessary documentation are prepared. After submission, the City of Del Mar is required to approve or deny the permit application within 60 days of receiving a complete application. Following permit approval, the construction phase usually takes an additional 5 to 7 months. Thus, the total timeframe from initial design through construction completion generally ranges from 10 to 18 months.

To obtain an ADU permit in Del Mar, homeowners should first consult the City’s Planning Department to clarify specific requirements. Next, detailed architectural and site plans must be prepared, along with any necessary supporting documents. Once submitted, city staff conducts an administrative review, typically completed within 60 days. If approved, permits are issued, allowing construction to begin. Throughout construction, periodic inspections are conducted to ensure compliance. Upon successful completion and approval of final inspections, the city issues final authorization or a certificate of occupancy. Additional requirements, such as obtaining a Coastal Development Permit or recording a deed restriction, may apply depending on the property’s location.