Solana Beach ADU Regulations & Zoning

Solana Beach 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.

Based on city feedback in February 2025, the City no longer permits guest houses or pool houses. They only permit attached or detached accessory structures (ADUs) and garages/storage sheds.

Any storage structure must be unconditioned. Utilities, such as but not limited to heating, AC, plumbing fixtures, etc., cannot be within or pass through the unconditioned building.

The height of a detached ADU can be up to 16′.

Also, per recent state law change, detached ADUs within half a mile of major transit stops or high-quality transit corridors can use 4′ side & rear setbacks, up to 18 feet tall. An additional 2 feet can be added if the ADU’s roof pitch matches the primary dwelling. This 18’+2′ limit would allow for a two story unit.

Read more about two story ADUs and height limits.

The exterior roofing, trim, walls, windows and the color palette of the ADU shall incorporate the same features as the primary dwelling unit. Unique to Solana Beach, “the primary entrance to the ADU shall not be visible from the street adjacent to the front yard setback.” Also, ADU parking in setback areas visible from the street shall be screened by vegetation that has a maximum maturity height of 42″.

The minimum required distance between structures is 6′ (eave to eave), with a minimum of 10′ (eave to eave) from the entrance of an ADU if it is facing the wall of another structure on the property.

No, Solana Beach does not mandate soils reports for ADUs.

Yes, all development in Solana Beach must undergo both Planning Department review and Coastal Development Permit (CDP) approval due to the city’s location within the California Coastal Zone. Here’s how the process works:

• Initial Planning Review:

  • Plans are submitted to the Planning Department for an initial review.
  • Once the review is approved, the applicant will receive instructions for full plan check submission and payment of associated fees.

• Coastal Development Permit (CDP):

  • All projects in the Coastal Zone require a CDP, reviewed and approved by the California Coastal Commission (CCC).
  • Properties on the Bluff: It’s recommended to obtain CCC approval before submitting plans to the City for initial review, as the City cannot approve the plans without this approval.
  • Properties Not on the Bluff: CCC approval is still required but can be obtained during the process. However, the City cannot issue the final building permit without this approval.

Read more about ADUs in the coastal zone.

No, you cannot stack ADUs on top of each other in Solana Beach.

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.