ADU Regulations in Coronado, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Excessive Survey Requirements: The City requires pre- and post-construction surveys by a licensed land surveyor to verify size and location, which HCD deems unauthorized and excessive. Subjective Design Standards: The ordinance unlawfully requires ADUs to utilize the 'same architectural style' and materials of equal or greater quality, which HCD identifies as subjective. Carriage House Restrictions: The City applies stricter standards to carriage house conversions than allowed by State ADU Law. Coastal Zone Replacement Parking: The City requires replacement parking when a garage is demolished, citing the Coastal Act, despite State ADU Law generally prohibiting this.

For the official ordinance and latest updates, check your city or county planning department.

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Coronado

• What is the maximum ADU size in Coronado, California?

  In Coronado, the maximum ADU size is typically 1000 square feet, depending on whether the unit is attached or detached. California state law allows up to 1,200 sq ft for detached ADUs and 800 sq ft for attached in many jurisdictions; Coronado may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with Coronado planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Coronado?

  In Coronado, typical setback requirements are 4 feet from the side property line and 4 feet from the rear. These may be reduced to 4 feet under California Government Code § 65852.2 where applicable. Check with Coronado planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in Coronado?

  In Coronado, the maximum height for an ADU is generally 16 feet. State law often allows up to 16 feet for detached ADUs and up to 25 feet when within 4 feet of the property line in some cases. Confirm with Coronado or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Coronado?

  In Coronado, ADU approval is typically Ministerial (by-right) per Gov Code §65852.2. Ministerial (by-right) review means the city must approve qualifying applications without discretionary review, per California Gov Code § 65852.2. Your project must still meet objective standards; Coronado planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Coronado?

  In Coronado, parking for ADUs is generally true. California law often waives parking for ADUs within a half-mile of transit or in certain historic districts. Check with Coronado planning for your address.