Chula Vista ADU Regulations & Zoning
Chula Vista, California
Zip Codes: 91910, 91913
Neighborhoods: Otay Ranch, Castle Park, Hilltop, Hillsborough, Rancho Del Rey, Eastlake, Heritage, Eastlake Greens, Otay Town, Rolling Hills Ranch, San Miguel Ranch, Robinhood - Bon Vivant, Greg Rogers, Terra Nova, Broderick Estates, Woodlawn Park
Our quick take on Chula Vista: Moderately ADU-Friendly
SnapADU has permitted numerous projects within Chula Vista, and we know the city's regulations and processes very well. Chula Vista requires in-person plan check submissions and requires soils reports, which adds some processing time and expense. Also, some of Chula Vista is in the coastal zone and coastal development permits may be required in those areas.
Chula Vista Regulation & Permitting Requirements:
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?
The height of a detached ADU can be up to 16′, or shall not exceed the height limit for the primary residence in accordance with the underlying zone. So a two-story ADU may be built so long as it does not exceed the height limit for that zone.
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, 850 square feet, or 1,000 square feet for a unit that provides more than one bedroom, whichever is greater.
What are the requirements of the exterior of the ADU?
The exterior roofing, trim, walls, windows and the color palette of the ADU shall incorporate the same features as the primary dwelling unit.
SETBACKS
What is the setback requirement for an ADU in Chula Vista?
ADUs must have 4′ minimum setbacks from rear and side-yard property lines, with front yard setback per zoning standards. An ADU taking advantage of the 4′ setbacks cannot exceed a height of 16 feet. An ADU exceeding 16′ must comply with the setbacks of the underlying zoning.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
The minimum required distance between structures is 6′ wall to wall.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Does Chula Vista require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, Chula Vista requires in-person submission of plans, which means slightly higher processing and printing costs.
Does Chula Vista require a soils report for an ADU?
Yes, Chula Vista requires a soils report for all ADUs.
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).
MULTIFAMILY
How many ADUs does Chula Vista allow for multifamily properties?
Up to two detached accessory dwelling units shall be permitted on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, unless the ADUs meet the required setbacks for the SFR, in which case the height may be allowed to match the existing residence.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other in Chula Vista?
It is currently undetermined if two detached ADUs can be attached to each other; 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.
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.
RENT RATES
How much will an ADU rent for in Chula Vista?
Below are median rental prices by zip code and bedroom count. Be sure to run comps for your specific area or check with a realtor.
RENT RATES IN CHULA VISTA
Zip Neighborhood 1BR 2BR 3BR 91910 Northwest Chula Vista $1,620 $2,575 $2,850 91913 Rancho del Rey $1,985 $2,625 $3,120 Source: Rentometer Nov 2022
