Design and permitting is the stage where most ADU schedules are won or lost. We research the rules for your parcel, draw a unit that fits them, coordinate the engineering, file with the correct permit office and answer every plan-check comment until the permit is issued.
What does feasibility cover?
- The permitting jurisdiction: City of San Diego, a neighboring city or the County.
- Zoning and overlays, including coastal zone, fire hazard mapping and Transit Priority Area status.
- Setbacks, height and size limits for the type of ADU you want.
- Where water, sewer and electrical service enter the lot.
- Whether the Bonus ADU program is relevant to your goals.
What drawings and reports are included?
- Site plan, floor plan, elevations and sections.
- Structural design and calculations; a soils report where the lot needs one.
- Title 24 energy documents, including solar for a new detached unit where required.
- Finish selections made before submittal, so the written, itemized quote stays accurate.
Custom design or a ready-made plan?
Either. As of October 2026, the City of San Diego accepts San Diego County's Standard ADU Building Plans and Encinitas's Permit Ready ADU plans, and several nearby cities offer their own pre-approved plans. A ready-made plan saves design time; a custom design fits odd-shaped, sloped or tight lots better.
How long does the city have to review?
As of October 2026, state law gives the permitting agency 15 business days to confirm an application is complete and 60 days to approve or deny a complete application when a home already exists on the lot, including in the coastal zone. We aim for a complete first submittal to keep correction rounds to a minimum. More in how long a San Diego ADU takes.
Can I hire you for design only?
Our focus is design and construction together, which keeps one team accountable for the drawings and the build. If you already have permitted plans, send them and we will tell you whether we can build from them.