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ADU Designs & Permits in San Diego
Transform your property with our custom ADU design and permit expertise.
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Explore Exceptional San Diego ADU Designs
Journey through our collection of custom ADU designs to see how we convert concepts into permit-ready plans that enhance property value and lifestyle.
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Client Voices That Matter
Our clients' satisfaction tells the story of our commitment to excellence.
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About
Streamline Design & Permitting
At Streamline Design & Permitting, we turn property development challenges into opportunities. Our team specializes in navigating the complex world of ADU design and permitting with precision and expertise. No detail is too small, and we’re committed to customer satisfaction at every stage of our projects.
As a preferred partner in the State ADU handbook, we bring authoritative guidance to every project, from homeowners seeking rental income to entrepreneurs with time-sensitive commercial needs. This comprehensive approach ensures your project moves forward smoothly while meeting your goals.
Our Trusted ADU Builders
Our Services
ADU Solutions We Provide
We’re proud to offer comprehensive design and permitting solutions across the full spectrum of Accessory Dwelling Units, also known as granny flats:
Multi-Family ADU
Maximize your property's potential with multiple dwelling units, creating significant rental income opportunities while navigating complex zoning requirements.
Single-Family ADU (Junior ADU)
Transform existing space within your home into an efficient and self-contained living area of up to 500 square feet. This extra livable space is perfect for family members or modest rental income.
Attached ADU
Expand your current structure with a connected yet independent living space that shares walls with the primary residence while maintaining separate entrances and amenities.
Detached ADU
Create a standalone structure on your property that provides complete privacy and independence from the main dwelling — ideal for rental units or guest houses.
Garage Conversion
Repurpose your existing garage into a functional living space, maximizing your property’s utility without increasing its footprint.
Basement Conversion
Transform underutilized basement space into valuable living quarters, creating additional income or living options while working within your home's existing structure.
Need Professional ADU Design & Permits in San Diego?
Look no further. Get your Accessory Dwelling Unit project off the ground with our expert design and seamless permitting services — contact us today!
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Regulations
San Diego’s ADU Regulations
San Diego has established specific regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to promote housing flexibility while maintaining community standards. Keep these regulations in mind.
Size limits
Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet. Attached ADUs may also reach 1,200 square feet without being limited by the size of the primary residence.
Setbacks
ADUs up to 16 feet in height can have side and rear setbacks reduced to zero feet. Taller ADUs or those adjacent to residential properties must maintain a minimum setback of 4 feet.
Height and stories
Two-story ADUs are permitted, with height restrictions varying between 24-30 feet, depending on the zoning area.
Building separation
A minimum distance of 6 feet is required between a detached ADU and the primary dwelling.
Coastal zones
Properties within coastal zones may require additional permits, such as a Coastal Development Permit, and must comply with specific coastal regulations.
These regulations aim to balance the expansion of housing options with the preservation of San Diego’s character.
Process
The ADU Journey: Our Proven Pathway to Success
We've streamlined every step of the ADU journey to make your project smooth and worry-free:
- 01
Research & Development
Transforming your ADU vision into a structured, actionable plan.
- 02
Design Development
Drafting functional, space-optimized ADU designs tailored to your needs.
- 03
Consultant Coordination
Seamless collaboration with experts for project refinement.
- 04
Permit Management
Handling approvals, documentation, and agency requirements.
- 05
Contract Completion
Clear agreements keep your project on track from start to finish.
Why Us
The Advantage of Expertise: Why Clients Trust Us
At Streamline Design & Permitting, our ADU contractors in San Diego excel in areas where others falter. As one of the most reliable ADU companies in San Diego, we offer:
Finding solutions when others say “no”
Our unmatched regulatory expertise allows us to discover creative and legal workarounds for challenging projects
Proven track record
Our confidence comes from tangible results, demonstrated through detailed proposals and successful project completions
Strategic navigation
We don’t just understand regulations — we strategically use them to your advantage
On-time delivery
We respect your timeline with consistent, reliable scheduling and project completion without unexpected delays
Competitive pricing
Our services offer exceptional value at market-average rates, representing only 3-4 percent of your total project investment while providing premium expertise
Our consultations reveal our depth of knowledge, assuring you that your project is in the most capable hands.
Contact Us
Ready to Bring Your ADU Vision to Life?
Contact our draftsmen today for a free consultation, and let us transform your ideas into expertly drafted plans for your perfect ADU in San Diego.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Granny Flats:
- 01
How long does it take a draftsman to draw ADU plans?
Our team of ADU contractors typically completes granny flats drafts starting from 4 months, with the exact timeline depending on project complexity and specific requirements. While many competitors quote timeframes of up to a year, our streamlined process and regulatory expertise allow us to deliver quality results significantly faster.
- 02
What should I expect from a draftsman?
Our draftsmen create detailed, permit-ready plans using advanced CAD software. In other words, they transform initial concepts and rough sketches into comprehensive technical drawings incorporating engineering specifications, architectural details, and manufacturing considerations. Their expertise ensures your ADU designs in San Diego meet all required building codes while accurately reflecting your vision and functional needs.
- 03
Is it better to use an architect or a draftsman?
Our skilled draftsmen provide the ideal balance of expertise and value for ADU projects. They specialize in ADU regulations and efficient permitting, delivering precise, code-compliant plans at 40-60 percent less cost than architects while maintaining excellent quality. For standard to semi-custom ADUs, a draftsman's focused expertise makes them the ideal choice for most homeowners.
- 04
What is a good size ADU?
The ideal ADU size depends on your purpose: 400-600 square feet works well for guest accommodations, 150-300 square feet for home offices, and 800-1,200 square feet for rental units. Consider your intended use, available space, and budget when determining the optimal size for your property. We’re happy to help you navigate these considerations.
- 05
Is an ADU worth the cost?
Absolutely. ADUs in San Diego typically offer excellent returns through increased property value and rental income, with most homeowners recouping costs within 5-7 years. Beyond finances, they provide versatile spaces that adapt to changing family needs — from housing relatives to creating home offices.