The Complete Carlsbad ADU Requirements Guide
If you’re thinking of building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Carlsbad, getting familiar with the city’s rules and regulations is the best place to start. Carlsbad’s regulations simplify the permitting process for residential property owners interested in building ADUs.
An ADU is a self-contained housing unit that shares a lot with a larger main residence. ADUs can increase your property value, provide extra housing, or even help you pay your mortgage.
Knowing the regulations for ADUs in Carlsbad is a crucial first step. Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about building a Carlsbad ADU and how Samara can help you get it done more easily.
Carlsbad ADU regulations at a glance
Since 2016, California has passed several laws to encourage ADU construction. Carlsbad has specific regulations that can differ from statewide requirements.
The city will review your ADU application within 60 days and provide initial comments. The full permitting process typically takes three to four months from your first submission date.
Permitting fees depend on square footage but generally range from $2,000 to $4,000. Building an ADU in Carlsbad’s Coastal Zone also requires a coastal development permit.
Additionally, if your ADU is larger than 500 square feet, you’ll need to submit a soil report with your application.
Size and lot requirements
The size and lot requirements for ADUs in Carlsbad vary by type:
- Detached ADUs can reach up to 1,200 square feet and are typically limited to one story and 16 feet in height. Height limits increase to 18 feet if the ADU is within a half-mile of major transit, built above a garage, or on a multi-family lot. In some cases near transit, height may further increase to 20 feet if needed to match the primary home’s roof pitch.
- Attached ADUs can reach up to 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary home’s existing floor area, whichever is less. However, you’re always permitted at least 800 square feet, regardless of the main residence’s size. Attached ADUs can be up to two stories and 25 feet tall, subject to zoning limits.
- Junior ADUs are limited to 500 square feet and must be contained within the existing primary residence.
All Carlsbad ADUs require at least four-foot side and rear setbacks from property lines. For ADUs larger than 800 square feet, Carlsbad generally requires at least 10 feet of separation from the main house.
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Zoning eligibility
In Carlsbad, ADUs are permitted in single-family and multi-family residential zones, as well as certain mixed-use zones, depending on your specific zoning district.
Design requirements
To maintain neighborhood character, Carlsbad requires ADUs to visually blend with the primary residence. This includes matching colors, building materials, and overall appearance.
Roof decks are explicitly prohibited. Additionally, new detached ADUs must include a solar panel system unless your existing solar system can accommodate the ADU’s energy needs.
Fire sprinklers are required if your primary residence already has them installed or if there’s no nearby fire hydrant.
Parking requirements
Carlsbad requires one parking space per ADU, which may be located within setbacks or in the driveway. However, parking isn’t required if your property is located in a historic district, near a transit stop, or car-share facility.
JADUs do not require parking.
Number of ADUs allowed
In Carlsbad, single-family residential lots may have one ADU—either attached or detached—and one JADU on the same property.
Multi-family properties can have as many detached ADUs as existing residential units, up to a maximum of eight. Additionally, existing non-residential spaces, such as garages or offices, can be converted into ADUs, provided conversions do not exceed 25 percent of the total existing units.
Meet the KurodasStreamline your ADU project in Carlsbad
If you’re looking to build an ADU, Samara makes it easy. We handle everything from permits to installation, including ADU financing options. Call us at 650-420-2607 to schedule a 15-minute consultation and discover how simple adding a Backyard ADU can be.
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