ADU Buiders

Encinitas

March 29, 2024

10 min read

Partner with an ADU builder in Encinitas known for their experience.

Introduction

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Encinitas is an excellent way for homeowners to add value to their property, accommodate extended family, or generate rental income. However, navigating the ADU construction and rental process in Encinitas requires a deep understanding of local regulations and a partnership with the right ADU builder. Choosing an experienced ADU builder ensures that your project meets all legal requirements, aligns with your vision, and is completed efficiently and to high standards. At Better Place Remodeling, we specialize in ADUs, garage conversions, and room additions, offering a comprehensive, one-stop-shop approach that simplifies the ADU development process for homeowners in Encinitas.

Essential ADU Rules for Encinitas

What you can build

Maximum size
Maximum 1200 sq ft for detached ADUs, and 1200 sq ft or 50% of the primary dwelling for attached ADUs.
Side / rear setbacks
Minimum of 4 feet of setback from rear and side property lines.
Two story
Permitted with adherence to standard zoning setbacks.
Building separation
Minimum 6-foot minimum separation is required.

Permitting timeline

Standard
4-6 months.
Coastal
Required for ADUs in coastal zones.

Choosing the Right ADU Builder in Encinitas

Selecting a general contractor with specific ADU experience in Encinitas is crucial. Local zoning knowledge, design expertise, and proficiency in navigating city regulations are essential for a successful ADU project. At Better Place Remodeling, we stand out as the premier choice for Encinitas homeowners. Our one-stop-shop approach handles the entire process in-house, from initial feasibility studies to design, permitting, construction, and warranty support, eliminating the hassle of coordinating with multiple vendors and ensuring a streamlined, efficient process that aligns perfectly with Encinitas’s unique requirements.

Encinitas ADU Construction Process

The construction process for an ADU in Encinitas involves several key phases:

Feasibility Study

Assess zoning, site constraints, and preliminary financials.

Design & Planning

Develop architectural plans and select materials.

Permitting

Navigate local regulations to obtain necessary approvals.

Construction

Site preparation followed by the build, adhering to quality and compliance standards.

Inspection & Completion

Ensure the ADU meets all local building codes and regulations.

Building Your ADU in Encinitas

Building verification surveys are not a required part of the plan review process for ADUs, although they can be helpful to ensure that construction aligns with local zoning and setback requirements.

Encinitas does not impose a minimum lot size requirement for constructing ADUs, facilitating the development of ADUs across a wide range of property sizes to address housing needs.

Yes, in Encinitas, the maximum floor area for an ADU is 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary residence’s floor area (whichever is less). However, exceptions may be made for ADUs intended for affordable housing.

Encinitas ADU Size & Building Constraints

Encinitas permits detached ADUs up to 1200 sqft as long as they do not exceed the size of the primary residence. However, state law guarantees the right to build at least a 1000 sqft ADU with two or more bedrooms, or an 850 sqft ADU with one bedroom, even if the main home is smaller than 1000 sqft. Additionally, ADUs up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage limits, allowing construction even if existing lot coverages are maximized.

Roof decks are permitted on ADUs as long as the overall structure, including any railings or deck features, does not exceed the 16-foot height limit. This regulation ensures that ADUs with roof decks remain in harmony with neighborhood aesthetics and privacy considerations.

In Encinitas, two-story ADUs are allowed if they adhere to regular zoning setbacks, rather than the reduced 4-foot setbacks designated for single-story ADUs, with a height limit of 16 feet.

The maximum size for an attached ADU is either 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary residence’s floor area, whichever is less, but it may not be smaller than 800 square feet. This rule ensures that attached ADUs remain proportional to the primary dwelling while maintaining a minimum size.

ADUs must match the primary dwelling in exterior design, including roofing, windows, and color palette, to ensure aesthetic coherence within the property.

Renting Your ADU in Encinitas

Renting out your ADU in Encinitas offers a valuable opportunity for income generation, but it’s essential to understand the local market, rental income potential, and legal requirements for landlords. ADUs must be rented for terms longer than 30 days, aligning with the city’s aim to boost long-term housing availability. Considerations for utility sharing and the process for establishing separate mailing addresses are also vital to ensure your ADU is rent-ready and compliant with local regulations.

Neighborhoods: Cardiff By The Sea, Leucadia, La Costa Canyon, Encinitas.

Zip	1BR	2BR	3BR
92007	$3,183	$4,015	$5,171
92024	$2,739	$3,882	$5,547

Calculate Your ADU Cost in Encinitas

Curious about the cost of your ADU in Encinitas? Find out quickly with our interactive calculator. This tool is designed to give you a rough estimate.

Attached ADU

Estimated Cost

*The costs we are calculating here are an average for time and materials. This calculator is meant to provide an estimate to educate you on the ADU building process, please note that this is not a final quote.

Detached ADU

Estimated Cost

Garage ADU

Estimated Cost

Unlock possibilities

Summary

Building and renting out an ADU in Encinitas is a promising venture that can enhance your property value and provide significant rental income. However, success in this endeavor relies on thorough planning, adherence to local regulations, and partnership with experienced ADU builders. At Better Place Remodeling, we offer unmatched expertise and a one-stop-shop approach, ensuring your ADU project in Encinitas is executed seamlessly from conception to completion. Consulting with Better Place Remodeling and the local planning department is encouraged to navigate the process efficiently and effectively.