ADU Buiders

Solana Beach

March 29, 2024

11 min read

A knowledgeable ADU builder in Solana Beach is essential for a successful build.

Introduction

In Solana Beach, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have emerged as a valuable solution for homeowners looking to expand their living space, accommodate family members, or tap into rental income opportunities. Given the city’s stringent construction and rental regulations, partnering with the right ADU builder becomes crucial to navigating the process successfully. Understanding the ins and outs of ADU construction, from planning and permitting to completion, ensures that your project aligns with local ordinances, avoids costly pitfalls, and achieves your desired outcome. Better Place Remodeling stands out in this regard, offering comprehensive, in-house services that streamline the ADU development process for homeowners in Solana Beach.

Essential ADU Rules for Solana Beach

What you can build

Maximum size
Detached ADUs are limited to 850 sq ft for studio or one-bedroom units and 1,000 sq ft for units with two or more bedrooms. Attached ADUs cannot exceed 50% of the main residence's floor area, up to a maximum of 1,200 sq ft.
Side / rear setbacks
Minimum setback of 4 feet from rear and side property lines.
Two story
Not allowed; the maximum height is 16 feet.
Building separation
Minimum separation of 6 feet, measured from eave to eave.

Permitting timeline

Standard
4-6 months.
Coastal
Required.

Choosing the Right ADU Builder in Solana Beach

Selecting a builder with a deep understanding of Solana Beach’s ADU regulations ensures a smooth construction process. Better Place Remodeling excels in this domain, offering unmatched local zoning knowledge, design expertise, and efficiency in navigating the city’s regulatory landscape. Our one-stop-shop approach simplifies the ADU development process, managing everything in-house, from planning and design to construction and final inspections. Partnering with us guarantees that your ADU project in Solana Beach will comply with all local ordinances and meet your expectations for quality and functionality.

Solana Beach ADU Construction Process

The construction process for an ADU in Solana Beach involves several key steps:

Feasibility Study

Assess zoning requirements, utility placements, and site constraints.

Design & Planning

Translate visions into actionable plans with precise 3D mapping and architectural planning.

Permitting

Navigate local regulations and submit necessary documentation for approval.

Construction

From site preparation to building, adhere to high standards of craftsmanship.

Inspection & Completion

Ensure compliance with local building codes and quality standards before final handover.

Building Your ADU in Solana Beach

For single-family properties in Solana Beach, you are typically allowed to have one or two ADUs. On multifamily properties, the allowance includes two detached ADUs and conversion ADUs, which should not exceed 25% of the existing units in the building.

Multifamily properties in Solana Beach are permitted to add two new detached ADUs and a number of conversion ADUs up to 25% of the original unit count, with the provision for at least one conversion ADU regardless of the total number of units.

ADUs in Solana Beach generally require one parking space. Exemptions apply if the ADU is within a half-mile of public transit, located in a historic district, converted from existing space, or attached to the main residence.

ADU Size & Building Constraints in Solana Beach

In Solana Beach, detached ADUs are restricted to a maximum of 850 square feet for studio or one-bedroom units, and up to 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms.

Both detached and attached ADUs in Solana Beach are subject to a height limit of 16 feet. This regulation ensures that ADUs integrate well with the neighborhood aesthetics.

Two-story ADUs are not allowed in Solana Beach due to a height restriction of 16 feet, which generally limits structures to one story.

Roof decks on ADUs are permitted in Solana Beach, provided they comply with the overall height restriction of 16 feet and do not infringe on required setbacks.

Attached ADUs must not exceed 50% of the living area of the main residence, up to a maximum of 1,200 square feet, ensuring that the ADU remains secondary to the primary dwelling.

ADUs in Solana Beach must reflect the design of the primary residence, matching in exterior roofing, trim, walls, windows, and color scheme. This requirement is to ensure aesthetic consistency and integration with the existing residence.

Renting Your ADU in Solana Beach

Renting out an ADU in Solana Beach presents a lucrative opportunity but requires adherence to local regulations, especially regarding rental periods and tenant rights. ADUs can generally be rented for periods longer than a month, offering a steady source of income. However, short-term rentals are typically restricted. Utility and mailing address considerations also play a crucial role, with separate utilities and addresses often enhancing the rental appeal and functionality of the ADU. Engaging with an experienced ADU builder like Better Place Remodeling ensures that your rental unit not only meets local standards but also aligns with market demands and tenant expectations.

Neighborhoods: Solana Beach.

Zip	1BR	2BR	3BR
92075	$2,598	$3,545	$4,430

Calculate Your ADU Cost in Solana Beach

Curious about the cost of your ADU in Solana Beach? 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

Start building

Summary

Building and renting out an ADU in Solana Beach offers homeowners a chance to maximize their property’s potential. However, the success of such projects hinges on strict adherence to local construction and rental regulations. Partnering with experienced builders like Better Place Remodeling ensures a seamless, compliant process from conception through completion. We encourage homeowners to engage with us and the local planning department early in their ADU journey to fully realize the benefits of adding an ADU to their Solana Beach property.