Imperial Beach, California

Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach is a small beach town located in San Diego County, California. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and its surfing culture. Recently, the town has been seeing more Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) built in order to provide more housing options for its residents.

ADUs are small, self-contained living units that are attached to or detached from a single-family home. They can be used as a primary residence, a second home, or a rental unit. Contact Cottage and we'll help you build your ADU today!

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
• Greater of 850 sf or 50% of main dwelling max for a detached ADU
• Attached ADU Max Size: Greater of 850 sf or 50% of main dwelling

Building height

Building height for attached and detached ADUs is: 16ft unless additional parking provided

Parking

Coastal Zone will require 2 parking spots

One parking spot required unless any of the following apply:

• 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.

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