Oceanside ADU Regulations & Zoning
Oceanside, California
Zip Codes: 92054, 92056, 92057, 92058
Neighborhoods: Fire Mountain, Ivey Ranch, Rancho Del Oro, Mission Mesa, East Side, Capistrano, Guajome, Mira Costa, Morro Hills, North Valley, Ocean Hills, San Luis Rey, South Oceanside, Loma Alta, Seaside
Our quick take on Oceanside: Moderately ADU-Friendly
With SnapADU based in Oceanside, we know the city's regulations and processes very well. Oceanside allows for digital submissions. Turnaround times at the city are moderate, and include a pre-screen and plan check fee component before plans will be reviewed. Some of Oceanside is in the coastal zone and minor use permits are required in those areas. Also, Oceanside ADU regulations are a bit more restrictive than some areas, for instance permitting 4' setbacks for up to a 1000sqft unit; 1200sqft is allowed but subject to setbacks for the underlying zone.
Oceanside Regulation & Permitting Requirements:
ADU SIZE & BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
What size detached ADU can you build in Oceanside?
Per Oceanside ADU ordinance, you can build a detached ADU up to 1200 sqft. ADUs up to 1000 sqft are granted reduced setbacks, while ADUs up to 1200 sqft are subject to standard height, lot coverage, and setbacks for the underlying zone. 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 Oceanside? Can you build a 2-story ADU in Oceanside?
The height of a detached ADU can be up to 16′, or must comply with the setbacks of the zoning district in which it is located. (Meaning: You can build a taller ADU, but you will need to stick with regular setbacks, not the reduced 4′ setbacks).
Does Oceanside allow roof decks on ADUs?
Yes, roof decks are permitted in accordance with underlying zoning (e.g. height limits of the zone).
How big can an attached ADU be in Oceanside?
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 Oceanside?
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 1000 sqft. ADUs exceeding 1000 sqft must comply with the setbacks of the underlying zone.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
While there is no specific code written regarding distance between structures outside the coastal zone, the city typically adheres to 6′ between structures (per a senior planner at the City of Oceanside in February 2022). The minimum required distance between structures is 10′ in the Coastal Zone (City of Oceanside Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance – Article 10C Coastal Residential Districts, Additional Development Regulations (Z)(4)).
Also, if the ADU is between 5 to 10 feet away from the primary residence, one of the structures need to be of fire-resistant construction. If beyond 10 feet from the primary residence, neither building is required to be of fire-resistant construction (per an assistant building official at the City of Oceanside in May 2022).
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Does Oceanside require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Oceanside allows digital submission of applications for an ADU.
Does Oceanside require a soils report for an ADU?
No, Oceanside does not mandate soils reports for ADUs.
Does Oceanside require coastal development permits?
Yes, accessory dwelling units developed within the coastal zone are subject to requirements of the Local Coastal Program (LCP)
MULTIFAMILY
How many ADUs does Oceanside allow for multifamily properties?
On properties with an existing multifamily development, you may build up to two detached ADUs with a maximum size of 850 square-feet, or 1,000 square-feet with more than one bedroom, and a maximum height of 16 feet and four-foot side and rear setbacks.
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 Oceanside?
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 Oceanside?
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 Oceanside?
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 OCEANSIDE
Zip Neighborhood 1BR 2BR 3BR 92054 Fire Mountain $1,685 $1,995 $2,650 92056 Tri City $1,895 $2,145 $3,000 92057 North Valley $1,795 $2,100 $2,775 92058 Loma Alta $1,580 $2,300 $2,650 Source: Rentometer Nov 2021
