ADU Buiders

La Mesa

March 29, 2024

11 min read

Go for an ADU builder in La Mesa with proven expertise.

Introduction

In La Mesa, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) represent a fantastic opportunity to augment housing options, accommodate growing families, generate rental income, and increase property values. However, navigating the construction and rental process for ADUs requires a comprehensive understanding of local regulations, as well as partnering with the right builders. Selecting an experienced ADU builder in La Mesa, like Better Place Remodeling, ensures a successful, compliant, and efficient ADU project from inception to completion.

Essential ADU Rules for La Mesa

What you can build

Maximum size
Detached ADUs can go up to 1,200 square feet. However, property traits may restrict this to 800 square feet. Junior ADUs (JADUs) are capped at 500 square feet.
Side / rear setbacks
Minimum 4-foot setback from side and rear property lines.
Two story
Allowed with conditions, including a 4-foot setback. Height limits are 20 feet in zones R1E to R2 and 30 feet in zones R3 and RB.
Building separation
Minimum 6-foot separation is required.

Permitting timeline

Standard
4-6 months.
Coastal
Not required.

Choosing the Right ADU Builder in La Mesa

When embarking on an ADU project in La Mesa, the choice of builder is paramount. The ideal builder should not only be well-versed in local zoning laws and design considerations but also demonstrate proficiency in navigating city regulations efficiently. Better Place Remodeling stands out as the premier choice for ADU construction in La Mesa. Our unique advantage lies in offering homeowners a comprehensive one-stop shop solution for ADU projects, handling the entire process in-house from planning and design to construction and completion. This streamlined approach minimizes stress and maximizes efficiency, making Better Place Remodeling the best partner for your ADU venture in La Mesa.

La Mesa ADU Construction Process

The construction process for an ADU in La Mesa involves several critical phases:

Initial Consultation and Design

Collaborate with your builder to outline your ADU goals and design preferences.

Permitting

Submit detailed plans to the City of La Mesa for approval, keeping in mind the general 60-day review period.

Site Preparation

Prepare your property for construction, ensuring compliance with all zoning and setback requirements.

Construction

Begin the physical construction of your ADU, adhering to the approved plans and local building codes.

Inspection and Completion

The city conducts multiple inspections throughout the construction phase, culminating in a final inspection to issue a certificate of occupancy.

Building Your ADU in La Mesa

In La Mesa, ADUs must adhere to the height restrictions of the underlying zoning district, with possible height limits set at either 20 feet or 30 feet, depending on the specific zone. For instance, zones R1E, R1R, R1S, R1, R1A, and R2 have a maximum height limit of 20 feet, while zones R3 and RB allow for up to 30 feet. This means that a two-story ADU could be feasible, even with reduced setbacks of four feet from both the rear and side of the property. Importantly, the height of an ADU in La Mesa is measured from the average finished grade to the plate line of the roof, rather than the peak, ensuring a uniform measurement that fits within local aesthetic and structural guidelines.

A parking space is not required for an ADU if it is located within a half-mile walking distance of public transit, including bus stops, situated within a historic district, or if it is converted from or attached to the existing space of a primary residence or accessory structure.

Yes, ADUs in La Mesa can be rented out, provided the rental period is longer than 30 days. This regulation supports the city’s goal to increase the housing supply and allows homeowners to earn rental income.

ADU Size & Building Constraints in La Mesa

The maximum size for a detached ADU in La Mesa is 1,200 square feet. However, property-specific factors, such as lot size or coverage, may reduce this limit to 800 square feet.

In La Mesa, ADUs are subject to height restrictions based on the zoning district, with limits of 20 feet in zones R1E through R2, and 30 feet in zones R3 and RB. This regulation permits the possibility of two-story ADUs with minimum setbacks of four feet from rear and side property lines. The height is measured from the average finished grade to the roof’s plate line, not the peak, ensuring consistency with local aesthetic and structural standards.

In La Mesa, the construction of roof decks on ADUs is influenced by the zoning district-specific height restrictions. For zones R1E through R2, the height limit is 20 feet, and for zones R3 and RB, it extends up to 30 feet. These limits are measured from the average finished grade to the roof’s plate line, allowing the potential for roof decks within these parameters, especially if building a two-story ADU with minimal setbacks of four feet from rear and side boundaries. This setup ensures that any roof deck aligns with local aesthetic and structural guidelines.

In La Mesa, ADUs must architecturally match the primary residence, using similar materials, colors, and design elements. They are also required to meet specific setback and spacing requirements for safety and aesthetics. In historic districts, ADUs need to closely mirror the architectural style and materials of the primary or historic structure.

ADUs are allowed across all residentially zoned areas in La Mesa, provided there is an existing or proposed primary residence. The city supports ADU placement on properties to increase affordable housing options, without strict lot size requirements.

No, there is no minimum lot size requirement for ADU construction in La Mesa, which broadens the opportunity for property owners to develop ADUs, thereby increasing the city’s housing stock.

Renting Your ADU in La Mesa

Renting out an ADU in La Mesa offers a viable opportunity to capitalize on rental income while addressing the city’s housing needs. Homeowners should consider local market demands, potential rental income, and adherence to landlord legal requirements, including managing utilities and securing a separate mailing address if necessary. This process involves understanding La Mesa’s rental market, ensuring compliance with rental regulations, and considering the ADU’s impact on property taxes and insurance.

Neighborhoods: Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, Fletcher Hills, La Mesa, Rancho Park.

Zip	1BR	2BR	3BR
91941	$1,881	$2,518	$3,353
91942	$1,937	$2,488	$3,286

Calculate Your ADU Cost in La Mesa

Curious about the cost of your ADU in La Mesa? 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

Launch your project

Summary

Building and renting out an ADU in La Mesa can significantly enhance property value, provide housing solutions, and generate income. Success in this venture requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and the selection of an experienced ADU builder like Better Place Remodeling. With a thorough understanding of La Mesa’s ADU guidelines and a partnership with the right construction team, homeowners can navigate the ADU process smoothly and effectively. We encourage consulting with Better Place Remodeling and the La Mesa planning department to embark on your ADU project with confidence.