5 Steps to Determine the Development Possibilities of a Residential Lot in San Diego

By Sean Canning



As a practicing architect in San Diego, one of the most common questions that developers ask me is 'how many Dwelling Units can I build on my lot'?  To understand the potential of an given lot in the City of San Diego there needs to be a fundamental understanding of the regulations.  In an effort to help, I've created a quick 5-step process to qualify most lots for potential architectural development.  

For information on lots within other cities San Diego County should start w/ this article.  

This process will work for most standard lot zones, however lots in Planned Districts may vary from these standard regulations.  One final note;  like all things that require Building Department approval, there are many exceptions / variations to these regulations.  The intent of this 5-step process is to be able to quickly qualify potential lots -but additional research is recommended prior to purchase.  






Find the zone of your lot here


Reference the zone of your lot to determine the maximum density per Dwelling Unit (DU) in Chapter 13 of the San Diego Municipal Code here






Basic (no overlay zones)

Transit Area overlay zone here

Parking Impact Area overlay zone here

Tandem Parking overlay zone here

Determine the maximum parking spaces your lot can accommodate using Chapter 14 of the San Diego Municipal Code here






Determine the maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of your zone using the tables in Chapter 13 of the San Diego Municipal Code here


Use Table 142-05C here in the San Diego Municipal Code to determine what size Dwelling Units can be permitted for your project




View Transcript

Check Out More of Our ADU Blog Articles + Videos

As a leading San Diego Modern architecture studio specializing in ADUs, we regularly produce helpful content aimed at helping homeowners and property investors research their project. From design tips to financing options, we have plenty of resources to help guide you through your ADU journey.

The Truth About ADUs in San Diego (What the DSD Won't Tell You)

View Post

The Difference Between a Companion Unit + an Accessory Dwelling Unit

View Post

What Type of Structures Can Be Built on a Residential Lot in San Diego?

View Post

What are the Benefits of a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit?

View Post

Small Lot Subdivisions in San Diego

View Post

How Millennials Will Buy Homes in San Diego

View Post

Check Out More of Our Architecture Articles + Videos

As a leading San Diego Modern architecture studio, we regularly produce helpful content aimed at helping homeowners and property investors research their project. Check out some of our most recent articles and videos below.

How an Architect Evaluates Lots in San Diego for Development

View Post

How Much do Permits Cost in San Diego?

View Post

An Architect Reacts to a San Diego NIMBY Presentation

View Post

Modern Architecture Explained

View Post

How Modern Architects Design Their Own ADUs

View Post

What is a Design-Build Construction Method? 

View Post

Let’s Design Something Amazing Together.

We love working with clients that appreciate great design + modern architecture. If that sounds like you, let’s talk.

Contact Us