Del Mar ADU Regulations & Zoning
Del Mar, California 92014
Zip Codes: 92014
Our quick take on Del Mar: Moderately ADU-Friendly
Turnaround times at the city are moderate. Del Mar requires digital submissions which helps reduce some processing time and expense. Most of Del Mar is in the coastal zone and coastal development permits are required in those areas. Prospective clients should also know that some areas that are considered Del Mar are actually subject to the City of San Diego jurisdiction and review.
Del Mar Regulation & Permitting Requirements:
ADU SIZE & BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
What size detached ADU can you build in Del Mar?
Del Mar allows for a detached ADU up to 850 sqft for units with 1 bedroom, and up to 1000 sqft for 2+ bedrooms. 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 Del Mar? Can you build a 2-story ADU in Del Mar?
The height of a detached ADU can be up to 16′, though an ADU proposed within the Bluff, Slope, and Canyon Overlay Zone shall be 14′ height maximum.
Does Del Mar allow roof decks on ADUs?
No, roof decks are not permitted on detached ADUs in Del Mar.
How big can an attached ADU be in Del Mar?
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.
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 Del Mar?
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. In all cases, ADU shall comply with the required coastal bluff setback in the Coastal Bluff Overlay Zone and the required Beach reservation
Initiative setback in the Beach Overlay Zone. Properties located between ocean and the 1st public roadway shall comply with the street yard setback of the applicable zone where necessary to protect public scenic views to the ocean.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
The minimum required distance between structures is not applicable, though fire codes may require special materials when closer than 10′.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Does Del Mar require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Del Mar allows digital submission of applications for an ADU.
Does Del Mar require a soils report for an ADU?
No, Del Mar does not mandate soils reports for ADUs.
Does Del Mar require coastal development permits?
California Gov. Code § 65852.2 provides that the ADU statutes do not supersede or in any way alter or lessen the effect or application of the California Coastal Act, except that the City shall not be required to hold public hearings for Coastal Development Permit applications for ADUs.
The following are exempt from a Coastal Development Permit, except where a permit is otherwise required pursuant to Section 30.91.030(C)(5)(c):
i. The ADU contained entirely within or attached to an existing single dwelling unit.
ii. Minor changes to an existing residential structure that will not involve the removal or replacement of major structural components (e.g. roofs, exterior walls, or foundations) and will have no potential to adversely impact coastal resources pursuant to the certified LCP.MULTIFAMILY
How many ADUs does Del Mar allow for multifamily properties?
Up to two detached accessory dwelling units shall be permitted on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling, not to exceed 16′ in height.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, you cannot stack ADUs on top of each other in Del Mar.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other in Del Mar?
Yes, you can attach two ADUs to each other in Del Mar.
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 Del Mar?
A parking space is not required for an ADU in any of the following instances:
o Within a one-half mile walking distance from public transit, which includes bus stops.
o Within an established historic district.
o 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 Del Mar?
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 DEL MAR
Zip Neighborhood 1BR 2BR 3BR 92014 Del Mar $2,115 $3,095 $4,100 Source: Rentometer Nov 2022
