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Free Planning Resource

ADU Handbook

A branded, high-clarity planning guide for San Diego homeowners who want to avoid expensive missteps before design, permit submittal, and construction.

Built for San Diego homeowners Fast-read format Action checklists included

San Diego ADU Builder

ADU Handbook

Planning, Permits, Budget, And Build Roadmap

What you will walk away with: a practical game plan for ADU feasibility, permit sequencing, budget guardrails, and owner decisions that protect timeline and cost.

What Is Inside

1. Feasibility And Site Fit

A quick property screen to validate lot constraints, utility path, and ADU strategy before you spend on full design.

2. Permit Sequence

A step-by-step permit roadmap showing what comes first, who prepares what, and where projects most commonly lose momentum.

3. Budget Guardrails

The cost framework we use to set realistic planning ranges, including sitework, utilities, soft costs, and contingency.

4. Design Decision Checklist

Key choices that impact construction speed and price so you avoid redesign loops during permit review.

5. Build Prep Timeline

A concise timeline from pre-design through handoff so you know what to expect at each milestone.

6. Owner Readiness Scorecard

A final readiness checklist to help you decide whether to move into design now or complete missing prep first.

Important Note

This ADU Handbook is an educational planning guide created by San Diego ADU Builder and is not legal advice. Always verify current City and State requirements before final permit submittal.