ADU SIZE & BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
If you're considering building an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) in Oceanside, it's important to be well-informed about the process and regulations in the city. Let’s cover the size constraints, setback requirements, and additional regulations, so you can feel confident starting your ADU project. We’ll help make your ADU project in Oceanside easy and successful.What size ADU can I build in Oceanside?
Oceanside allows for detached ADUs of up to 1000 sq ft. Attached ADUs may not exceed 50% of the total existing or proposed primary dwelling unit. In both cases, ADUs have a minimum of 150 sq ft.Also, you may build an attached or detached ADU with a maximum size of 850 square feet (1 bedroom) or 1000 square feet (2+ bedrooms), so long as it complies with all ADU building codes.
What is the setback requirement for an ADU in Oceanside?
Both attached and detached ADUs in Oceanside must maintain a minimum four-foot setback from rear and side-yard property lines. The front yard setback requirements should adhere to applicable zoning standards and building code standards, respectively.However, no setbacks are required if you are turning an existing and permitted accessory structure into an ADU.
See the City of Oceanside’s Ordinance on ADUs for more information.
How many ADU’s can you build on your property in Oceanside?
You may build either one attached ADU or one detached ADU on a single-family lot but not both. However, in some cases you can have both one ADU and one JADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) on the same property.See the City of Oceanside’s Ordinance on ADUs for more information.
How big can an attached ADU be in Oceanside?
The square footage of any attached ADU in Oceanside may not exceed 50% of the primary dwelling's square footage. Regardless of the primary residence's size, you can build an attached ADU of up to 850 sq ft. The attached ADU must be a minimum of 150 sq ft.Can you build a 2-story ADU in Oceanside?
Yes. In Oceanside, you can build a 2-story ADU, so long as it conforms with local zoning requirements and setbacks.Can you convert a garage into an ADU or add an ADU on top of a garage in Oceanside?
Yes. In Oceanside, you have the flexibility to convert a garage into an ADU or add an ADU on top of an existing garage. This also applies to JADUs. An existing structure may be expanded to up to 150 sq ft, but shall conform to setbacks sufficient for fire and safety.
Also, within the coastal zone, an existing structure converted to an ADU unit or an ADU above a garage must be consistent with all habitat preserve buffers and geological stability setbacks in the certified Local Coastal Program.
What are the parking requirements for ADU’s in Oceanside?
Oceanside mandates at least one parking space for most ADUs, which can be located within the building setbacks or in an existing driveway as tandem parking. However, some ADUs do not require parking spaces.
See the City of Oceanside’s Ordinance on ADUs for more information.