Introduction to La Mesa ADU Regulations
An accessory dwelling unit must exist on a zoned single-family lot, commonly called a granny flat or in-law suite. According to La Mesa ADU regulations, each unit should have its entrance separate from the primary house and a kitchen, bathroom, and living space. La Mesa ADU units can be rented year-round and add much value to a property.
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La Mesa ADU Zoning
- ADUs are allowed in lots zoned for single-family or multi-family use. A single-family dwelling must already exist on the property or be built simultaneously with the ADU.
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City of La Mesa ADU Lot Requirements
- Building an accessory dwelling unit requires no minimum or maximum lot size.
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What is the City of La Mesa ADU Min/Max Building Sizes?
- Homeowners can build a minimum of 150 sq/ft and a maximum of 1,200 sq/ft for a detached structure.
- For an attached ADU the floor area of the ADU should not be more than 50% of the existing residence. For example, if your existing house in 2,500 sq. ft., the attached ADU cannot exceed 1,200 sq. ft. in size.
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La Mesa ADU Height Restrictions
- Refer to local building code.
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Parking in La Mesa
- Minimum 1 off street parking space is required unless in La Mesa unless property is within ½ mile of public transit in La Mesa.
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ADU Setbacks
- A setback is the minimum distance a structure must be away from the street, buildings, or other features. Most areas in La Mesa allow a 4’ side and rear yard setback to property line.
- No additional setbacks are required when an existing garage is converted to an ADU (given it complies with fire and safety regulations).
- For ADU’s constructed above a garage, the setback requirements are five feet from the side and rear lot lines.
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Owner Occupancy
- The city of La Mesa ADU requirements stipulates that homeowners cannot sell these units separately from the primary residence. The owner is not required to live in the primary residence or the ADU.
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ADU Rentals
- There are no restrictions on short-term or long-term rentals.
How to Evaluate ROI
Building an accessory dwelling unit using La Mesa pre-approved ADU floor plans, especially if you intend to keep the property for a few years, represents an enormously beneficial opportunity to maximize your property.
Constructing a predesigned accessory dwelling unit will add additional square footage to the property. If you can build a unit for $275 a square foot, but the average value of homes in your neighborhood is worth $400 a square foot, you are gaining instant equity through the project. Plus, you now have the added benefit of a flexible space that can be rented or used for a family.
Many homeowners in La Mesa rent their ADUs in the $2000 + / month range – which should create a positive cash flow for owners.
What is the price to build a prefabricated ADU in La Mesa?
We offer full-service, turn-key prices that include design, permits, and house and utility connections. See available floor plans and prices at www.myadu4less.com.
Note: La Mesa passed its own ADU ordinance on March 12, 2019.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today at 888-987-6638 or info@usmodularinc.com
