Escondido ADU Regulations & Zoning

Escondido 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.

Yes, a two-story unit is possible. Standard detached ADUs on properties with an existing/proposed single-story residence shall be limited to the height of the existing/proposed residence or 24′, whichever is greater.  Standard detached ADUs on properties with an existing/proposed multi-story residence shall be permitted to a height up to that of the primary structure or the height allowed by the underlying zone, whichever is greater.

Additionally, an ADU may be built to the following:

• A height of 16-feet regardless of applicable height limits;
• A height of 18-feet if within ½ mile of a major public transit stop;
• If attached to the primary dwelling unit, an ADU may go up to a height of 25′.

Read more about two story ADUs & height limits and building an ADU above a garage.

The square footage of any attached ADU may not to exceed 50% of the primary dwelling square footage, or 1,200 sqft, whichever is less, but not less than 800 square feet.

Exterior building materials, texture, and colors for standard ADUs shall match those of the primary structure.

If the accessory dwelling unit is an addition to a site with known historic resources or has been determined to have historic value by the director, all improvements shall retain the historical and/or architectural value and significance of the landmark, historical building, or historical district as specified by section 33-1475. The improvements shall be compatible with and retain the texture and material of the primary building(s) and/or structure(s) or its appurtenant fixtures, including signs, fences, parking, site plan, landscaping and the relationship of such features to similar features of other buildings within an historical district.

The minimum required distance between structures is 10′, unless both structues single story, then MAY be reduced to 5′

No areas are subject to Coastal requirements.

Yes, you can build an ADU on a lot that includes a historic building or a property under the Mills Act. However, the ADU must conform to the specific requirements of the historic structure or Mills Act guidelines. If the property is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, California Register of Historic Places, or the local historic inventory, the ADU should also comply with any approved historic preservation plans. If mandatory design standards for historically classified structures are established by the city council, the ADU must conform to these standards.

At SnapADU, we understand the complexities involved in building an ADU on a lot with historic significance or under the Mills Act. In our Feasibility stage, our expert team would conduct a thorough assessment of the specific requirements and standards that need to be adhered to for your unique property. This careful evaluation allows us to refine the design, scope, and budget to best suit your needs and ensure all guidelines can likely be met before you decide to proceed with full plans.

Read more about ADUs in historic zones.

No, Escondido does not require in-person submission of plans. They now accept digital applications.

Yes, Escondido requires a Preliminary Title Report as part of the submittal package for an ADU. 

Code does not specify, and this has yet to be tested with the city.

It is currently undetermined if two detached ADUs can be attached to each other; this will be subject to city interpretation.

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.

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.