ADU permit timeline in San Diego
How long does an ADU permit take in San Diego?
Standard-track ADU building permits issued by the City of San Diego in 2026 took a median 293 days from application to issue. The fastest quarter took 170 days or less and the slowest quarter 486 days or more. Correction rounds cause most of the delay.
For 1,037 standard-track ADU building permits issued Jan 1–Oct 15, 2026: median 293 days from application to issue. Fastest quarter: 170 days or less. Slowest quarter: 486 days or more.
Source: City of San Diego permit data (building permits issued Jan 1–Oct 15, 2026 that add at least one ADU). Measured from the permit's application date to its issue date. Time while the applicant fixes corrections counts too.
Typical sequence
- Feasibility: zoning, setbacks, fire zone, sewer location, panel size.
- Design and engineering: plans, structural, Title 24 energy.
- Submit through the City's online permit system. State law says the City must act on a complete ADU application within 60 days (Gov. Code §66317). Correction rounds restart the clock.
- Corrections: usually the longest part. A complete first submittal is the best way to save months.
- Issue, pay fees, build, inspections, final.
- Next trades: sewer, panel, fence and solar usually follow. See what comes next.
Official guide: City of SD Information Bulletin 400 (ADU/JADU).