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All ADU Regulations

Del Mar, California

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

Del Mar

Del Mar is a beautiful beach town in Southern California. The weather is perfect year-round, and the beaches are some of the best in the state. The city is also home to a number of unique shops and restaurants.
One of the best things about Del Mar is that you can build an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) on your property. An ADU is a small secondary dwelling unit that can be used as a rental unit, guest house, or home office. Building an ADU in Del Mar is a great way to add value to your property and create additional income.

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
  • 850 sq. ft. max for a detached ADU

Building height

  • Building height attached: 16 ft except that a new ADU structure proposed within the Bluff, Slope, and Canyon Overlay Zone shall comply with the 14 foot maximum height limit of the Overlay Zone.

Parking

State Law - No requirements for parking if any of the following true:
  • The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit.
  • The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
  • The accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.
  • When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
  • When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.

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!