ADU Permit Submission Checklist in San Diego, California
Understand the requirements, gather the right documents, and generate a submission-ready packet for your adu permit in San Diego, California.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $105 – $850
- Review time
- Varies — contact authority
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with San Diego directly.
ADU Permit Checklist
San Diego — 6 required, 0 optional
Plans & Diagrams(3)
Supporting Documents(2)
This checklist is for reference only. Requirements may change — always verify with San Diego before submission.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for San Diego, California — tailored to your project.
- Required forms: Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $105–$850 estimated total
- Step-by-step San Diego Development Services portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
No account required · Free to get started
Required Documents
San Diego requires the following documents for this permit application.
Permit Application
Completed building permit application form
Site Plan
Plan showing existing structures, proposed ADU, and setbacks
Architectural Plans
Floor plans, elevations, and sections of the proposed ADU
Structural Calculations
Engineering calculations for foundation and framing
Utility Connection Plan
Plan showing water, sewer, and electrical connections
Energy Compliance
Energy compliance documentation per state energy code
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through San Diego Development Services.
- 1
Create Account
Register on the San Diego Development Services portal.
You'll need: Email address
- 2
Start Application
Log in and select the ADU permit application.
You'll need: Login credentials
- 3
Enter Project Details
Fill in project address, owner information, and system details.
You'll need: Project address, Owner contact, Contractor license
- 4
Upload Documents
Upload all required documents per the checklist.
You'll need: All required documents in PDF format
- 5
Pay Fees and Submit
Pay applicable fees and submit the application.
You'll need: Payment method
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Building/Electrical Permit Fee | $210 – $850 | Estimated |
| Plan Review Fee | $105 – $553 | Approximate |
Fees are estimates and may change. Verify current fees with San Diego.
Inspections Required
Foundation Inspection
Verify foundation per approved structural plans
Framing Inspection
Verify wall, floor, and roof framing
Electrical Rough-In
Verify wiring, panel, and circuit layout
Plumbing Rough-In
Verify supply and drain installation
Insulation
Verify insulation installation per energy code
Final Inspection
Complete inspection of finished ADU
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in San Diego?
- Yes. San Diego requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in San Diego?
- Processing times in San Diego vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 5 steps. Contact San Diego Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in San Diego?
- San Diego requires 6 documents including Permit Application, Site Plan, Architectural Plans, Structural Calculations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in San Diego?
- Building without a permit in San Diego can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in San Diego?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to San Diego's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in San Diego?
- ADU permit fees in San Diego typically range from $105 to $850, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with San Diego.
Related Permits
Other permits in San Diego
Ready to prepare this permit correctly?
Start your adu permit plan for San Diego, California and generate a submission-ready packet with all required documents and authority references.
Start Permit PlanNo account required · Free to get started