Custom 2 Bedroom ADU for Rental Income in La Mesa
Fletcher Drive, La Mesa, CA 91941
Homeowner Story: Generate rental income
Other Features: Covered porch, Deck
This La Mesa ADU is intended as a flexible addition designed to support both rental use and future family living. The homeowner is creating a well-designed space that can generate rental income initially, with the option to transition into a comfortable home for parents over time. To bring this vision to life, they partnered with SnapADU for guidance through the design and planning process.
The design includes a single-story 997 sq ft ADU featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms, arranged in a long, efficient floor plan. The layout is intended to provide a balance of privacy, comfort, and functionality, making it well suited for both tenants and future family use. The one-story configuration supports ease of access and everyday livability.
Located outside the coastal zone and connected to sewer, the property is positioned for a straightforward permitting process within the City of La Mesa. Early planning centers on efficient site layout and design integration to ensure the ADU fits naturally within the existing property.
Overall, this ADU serves as a versatile living solution that supports both rental income and long-term family needs, offering comfort, flexibility, and lasting value.
Floor Plan:
2BR/2BA 39×25 Long
Community:
The La Mesa ADU Guide
We’ve worked on ADU projects throughout La Mesa and have found the City’s permitting process to be relatively straightforward compared to many other jurisdictions in San Diego County. La Mesa accepts digital permit submissions, offers clear permit tracking, and has a reputation for being responsive during the review process.
One of the more unique advantages for homeowners is the City’s ADU fee waiver program. To encourage ADU development, La Mesa waives the first $2,000 of permitting fees associated with ADU projects. In addition, many ADU projects are exempt from certain impact fees, helping reduce upfront development costs.
La Mesa ADU Permitting
Most ADU permits in La Mesa are approved within approximately 5 to 6 months after submission, although timelines vary depending on project complexity and city workload. Permit costs generally range from approximately $8-10/sqft, though the City’s ADU fee waiver program can help offset a portion of these expenses.
La Mesa generally requires soils reports for ADU projects at the time of permit submittal. However, City staff has indicated that very small one-story projects in favorable soil conditions may occasionally qualify for a waiver on a case-by-case basis.
