Imperial Beach ADU Regulations: Everything You Need to Know

For lots with existing or proposed multiple-family dwellings, such as duplexes, regulations allow for up to two detached Accessory Dwelling Units and permit the conversion of non-living spaces into at least one, or up to 25% of the total existing units, as internal ADUs. On lots featuring more than one existing or proposed single-family dwelling, one internal or detached Accessory Dwelling Unit is permitted per lot.

In Imperial Beach, the maximum height for detached or attached ADUs is typically 16 feet. However, if one or more parking spaces are included on the ground floor, ADUs can match the height of the primary dwelling in the underlying zone, allowing for two-story structures such as ADUs built over garages. Additionally, state law permits ADUs to be up to 20 feet tall if they are within half a mile of transit or if they are attached to the main home, supporting the possibility of two-story ADUs under these conditions.

In Imperial Beach, a soils report is not universally required for ADU construction. The regulations do not explicitly state the conditions under which a soils report is necessary, suggesting that the requirement may depend on the specific type of project or site conditions. For definitive guidance, consulting with the local building department is recommended.

Imperial Beach allows ADUs up to 850 square feet for units with one or fewer bedrooms and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms. Construction can extend to 1,200 square feet if it preserves existing off-street parking and includes one extra parking space beyond the minimum required.

Information on the allowance of roof decks on ADUs in Imperial Beach is not explicitly stated. Property owners are encouraged to consult with the city planning department to understand any applicable regulations or restrictions.

Imperial Beach permits ADUs to be at least 850 square feet for units with one or fewer bedrooms and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms. Construction can extend to 1,200 square feet if it does not remove existing off-street parking and includes an additional off-street parking space beyond the minimum required.

ADUs must match or complement the architectural style, exterior materials, and colors of the primary dwelling, and the material quality should meet or exceed that of the primary residence.

ADU placement on a property in Imperial Beach must comply with local setback requirements, which can vary depending on the ADU type (e.g., attached, detached, or conversion). These regulations are designed to respect property lines, privacy, and safety considerations.

Imperial Beach does not impose a minimum lot size requirement for ADU construction, promoting the development of ADUs across a diverse range of property sizes to enhance housing availability.

Accessory Dwelling Units up to 16 feet in height require side and rear setbacks of at least four feet, unless the underlying zone specifies different requirements. For ADUs exceeding 16 feet, the setbacks for any portion above 16 feet must adhere to the setback rules of the underlying zone.

A building verification survey is not required for ADU construction in Imperial Beach.

Yes, accessory dwelling units within Imperial Beach’s coastal zone require an Administrative Coastal Development Permit from the community development department, with no public hearing needed. The permit costs an additional $600. Note that areas regulated by the California Coastal Commission may have different application procedures and potentially higher fees.