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All ADU Regulations

Poway, California

Poway has updated its ADU ordinance to comply with new state laws. Below are the up-to-date requirements for permitting an ADU in Poway
Updated Jul 27, 2022

Poway

Poway is a city in San Diego County, California. The city is located 25 miles (40 km) northeast of downtown San Diego, and is part of the metropolitan area. Poway's rural roots gave rise to its slogan "The City in the Country."
Home to residents both young and old, Poway is a perfect place to build an ADU as an addition to any home. Cottage can help you build an ADU in Poway to generate rental income, offer housing to family, or just have some extra space.

Zoning

All properties zoned for single family and multifamily use may be eligible to build ADUs.

Number of units

The number of ADUs you’re able to build depends on how your lot is zoned:
  • Lots zoned for single family use may add 1 ADU and 1 Jr. ADU (JADU).
  • Lots zoned for multi-family may add 2 new detached ADUs and at least one conversion ADU (interior conversion of existing building, but no more than 25% of the original number of units. (E.g. an apartment with 4 units may add 2 detached ADUs and 1 conversion ADU.)

Building size

  • The maximum size is 500.0 sq. ft. for a JADU
  • Detached ADU: Not to exceed 50% of the floor area contained in the SFR or 1,500 sf, whichever is less. However, a minimum 1,200 sf floor area is permitted.
  • Attached ADU Max Size: Not to exceed 50% of the floor area contained in the SFR or 1,500 sf, whichever is less. However, a minimum 1,000 sf for a 1-BR+ ADU or 850 sf for a “studio” ADU is permitted.

Parking

For Detached / Attached ADU: One off-street space for the ADU
No off-street parking shall be required for the ADU in any of the following instances: a. The ADU is located one-half mile walking distance of a public transit stop. b. The ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district. c. The ADU is part of the existing permitted main residence or an existing permitted accessory structure. d. The ADU is located in an area of the City where on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU. e. The ADU is located within one block of a car-share vehicle’s pick-up location, as established by the City.

Restrictions

  • Owner occupancy not required
  • No short term rentals (<30 days)
  • No sale of the ADU separate from the main home

Want to learn more about ADU regulations in your area?

Book a free consultation and estimate with a Cottage ADU Expert to find out what’s possible on your property!