What you can build
Chula Vista ADU Regulations & Zoning
Key Facts SnapShot
Size and Separation
Maximum size 1200 square feet
Side/rear setbacks 4 feet
Two story Yes, in some situations
Building separation 6 feet
Additional Requirements
Soils Report Yes
Building Verification Survey No
Coastal permit (in some areas) Yes
Stormwater Mitigation No
Number of ADUs Allowed
How many ADUs can you build in Chula Vista?
On single-family lots in Chula Vista, state law now supports a broader mix of ADU types than many homeowners previously realized. Chula Vista does not have its own ADU ordinance, so it defaults to California law. As of April 2026, Chula Vista planners have confirmed that a single-family property may combine:
- 1 standard ADU under 66314 (detached or attached, up to 1200 SF, subject to FAR restrictions)
- 1 detached 1,200 sf ADU under 66323 (subject to FAR restrictions if only over 800 sq. feet, up to 16′ height)
- 1 conversion ADU under 66323 (detached or attached, subject to FAR. 50 percent of the main house, or 800 square feet, whichever is greater).
- 1 JADU under 66323 (up to 500 SF, only from existing space within primary dwelling unit, like a garage).
In Chula Vista, staff has indicated that because the City does not currently have its own adopted ADU ordinance, state law applies directly. Based on HCD guidance shared with the City, this may mean the detached ADU under section 66323 is not limited to 800 square feet in Chula Vista and could potentially reach up to 1,200 square feet, depending on project specifics.
Read more in our guide to how many ADUs you can build on a single-family property.
How many ADUs does Chula Vista allow for multifamily properties?
Chula Vista allows at least 2 detached ADUs for multifamily lots with an existing multi-family building. (Meaning: In order to build 2 ADUs, the property must already have at least a duplex on it, not just a single family dwelling)
Multifamily property owners are permitted to build as many ADUs as there are existing units, with a maximum of eight detached ADUs.
Additionally, a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit, or up to 25 percent of the existing multifamily units, is permitted within an existing multifamily dwelling, as a result of the conversion of non-habitable space including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages.
Read more about the rules around how many ADUs you can build on a multifamily lot.
Can you build guest quarters in Chula Vista?
Yes. Chula Vista defines guest quarters as detached living quarters for the use of occasional guests of the occupants of the main home. There is a maximum stay of 90 days and the space may not be rented or leased out. No kitchen or cooking facilities are allowed. Guest houses shall not be closer than 10 feet to the nearest point of the main building.
Read more about guest quarters.
ADU Size & Building Constraints
What size detached ADU can you build in Chula Vista?
Chula Vista allows for a detached ADU up to 1200 sqft. ADUs up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage requirements. (Meaning: You can build an ADU of this size even if you’re maxed out on lot coverages).
What is the height requirement for an ADU in Chula Vista? Can you build a 2-story ADU in Chula Vista?
As of 4/1/2025, the city voted to repeal their local ADU ordinance and follow state guidelines, which says that the height of a detached ADU can be up to 16′. Detached ADUs within half a mile of major transit stops or high-quality transit corridors can be 18′ tall. ADUs may be up to 18′ on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily, multistory dwelling.
How big can an attached ADU be in Chula Vista?
The total floor area for an attached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the total floor area of the proposed or existing primary residence, or 850 square feet for a one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom, whichever is greater.
What are the requirements of the exterior of the ADU?
There are no specific rules regarding the exterior of the ADU per state regulations.
Setbacks
What is the setback requirement for an ADU in Chula Vista?
A new attached or detached accessory dwelling unit is allowed a setback of no less than four feet from the side and rear lot lines. In addition, an encroachment into the front yard setback is also allowed only if it is necessary to construct a minimum 800-square-foot unit.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
The minimum required distance between the ADU and a primary dwelling unit is six feet. From 19.04.002, “Distance between residential structures” means the shortest horizontal distance between the vertical walls of two residential structures.
Additional Requirements
Does Chula Vista require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, as of December 13th, 2024, Chula Vista requires digital submission of plans.
Does Chula Vista require a soils report for an ADU?
Yes, Chula Vista requires soils reports for all ADUs by default. However, a waiver may be granted for one-story detached ADUs if the site is on natural or cut grade (not fill) and includes 18” footings and a 4” slab. For two story, 24″ footings would be required for the waiver.
Does Chula Vista require coastal development permits?
Yes, accessory dwelling units developed within the coastal zone may be subject to requirements of the Local Coastal Program (LCP), which for Chula Vista would be the Bayfront Local Coastal Program.
Multifamily
How many ADUs does Chula Vista allow for multifamily properties?
Multifamily property owners are permitted to build as many ADUs as there are existing units, with a maximum of eight detached ADUs. This change is due to California state law and will pre-empt existing local laws that are not brought into conformance.
Additionally, a minimum of one accessory dwelling unit, or up to 25 percent of the existing multifamily units, is permitted within an existing multifamily dwelling, as a result of the conversion of non-habitable space including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
Yes, you may stack two ADUs so long as the height no more than that of the primary residence and in accordance with the underlying zone.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other?
It is currently undetermined if two detached ADUs can be attached to each other side by side; this will be subject to city interpretation.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing non-livable space may be converted to ADUs (e.g. storage areas and garages). The minimum number of ADU conversions allowed is one, up to a maximum equal to 25% of the number of existing multifamily units. This is in addition to the allowed number of detached ADUs.
Parking
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Chula Vista?
A parking space is not required for an ADU in any of the following instances:
- Within a one-half mile walking distance from public transit, which includes bus stops.
- Within an established historic district.
- Converted from the existing space of a primary residence or accessory structure, or are attached to an existing or proposed primary residence.
- The accessory dwelling unit is in an area where on-street parking permits are required, but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
- The accessory dwelling unit is located within one block of a car share area.
Effective Jan 2025 (SB1211): When a garage, carport, covered parking structure, or uncovered parking space is demolished or converted for construction of an ADU, replacement parking will not be required.
Where can a parking space be located?
If a parking space is required, it may be located within the setbacks and in an existing driveway as tandem parking. Parking spaces don’t need to be replaced when a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted to an ADU.
Additional Chula Vista ADU Regulation Resources
Chula Vista Accessory Dwelling Units – Pre-Approved Plans
California ADU Code: CHAPTER 13 Accessory Dwelling Units (§ 66310-66342)
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