Escondido ADU Regulations & Zoning
Escondido, California
Zip Codes: 92025, 92026, 92027, 92029
Neighborhoods: Midway, East Grove, Kit Carson, Country Club, Felicita, North Broadway, West Ridge, Vineyard, East Valley, East Canyon, Eureka, North Ridge, Hidden Hills, Cloverdale, Jesmond Dene, Mesa Rock, Daley Ranch
Our quick take on Escondido: Moderately ADU-Friendly
SnapADU team members know the city's regulations and processes very well. Turnaround times at the city are moderate. Escondido requires in-person submissions which does add some processing time and expense. Also, much of what is considered Escondido is actually under the County of San Diego jurisdiction.
Escondido Regulation & Permitting Requirements:
ADU SIZE & BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
What size detached ADU can you build in Escondido?
Escondido allows for a detached ADU up to 850 sqft for units with 1 bedroom, and up to 1000 sqft for 2+ bedrooms. When an accessory dwelling unit is attached to other accessory building(s) or structure(s), such as a garage, carport, or patio cover, the overall combined building area of the structure(s) shall not exceed the existing floor area of the main residence. 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 Escondido? Can you build a 2-story ADU in Escondido?
The height of a detached ADU must conform to the height limits of the zone, though an accessory dwelling unit sixteen (16) feet in height shall be allowed regardless of the applicable height limit. So a two-story unit is possible if it conforms to the height limit for the zone.
Does Escondido allow roof decks on ADUs?
No, roof decks are not permitted on detached ADUs in Escondido.
How big can an attached ADU be in Escondido?
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 Escondido?
ADUs must have 4′ minimum setbacks from rear and side-yard property lines, with front yard setback per zoning standards. When above a garage, the ADU must have 5′ side and rear setbacks.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
The minimum required distance between structures is 10′, unless both structues single story, then MAY be reduced to 5′.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Does Escondido require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, Escondido requires in-person submission of plans and does not accept digital applications at this time.
Does Escondido require a soils report for an ADU?
No, Escondido does not mandate soils reports for ADUs.
Does Escondido require coastal development permits?
No areas are subject to Coastal requirements.
MULTIFAMILY
How many ADUs does Escondido allow for multifamily properties?
Up to two detached ADUs on legal lots with existing multifamily dwellings, and must be detached from that multifamily dwelling.
Note that in Escondido, the composition of the existing structure(s) is what will determine if you can build two ADUs. You could build two ADUs if you have an existing duplex, even in a single family residential zone. However, simply being zoned as multifamily with a single family home will not allow two ADUs.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
Code does not specify, and this has yet to be tested with the city.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other in Escondido?
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 Escondido?
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 Escondido?
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 ESCONDIDO
Zip Neighborhood 1BR 2BR 3BR 92025 East Canyon $1,800 $2,225 $3,200 92026 North Ridge $1,500 $2,190 $3,375 92029 Hidden Hills $2,045 $2,660 $3,450 Source: Rentometer Nov 2022
