San Diego has a growing need for more living space, but in some cases, it’s an opportunity to downsize. When Mayor Todd Gloria introduced “Homes For All of Us ” in July of 2021, he made it clear that small solutions would make a big difference.
These little homes have the potential to reshape our city. Terms like accessory dwelling units (ADUs), moveable tiny homes (MTHs) + micro-unit apartments are becoming part of the conversation, and we’re ready to open the door for these housing alternatives.
A nearly completed ADU in San Diego. | Photo via @calljennyf
🏘️ Accessory dwelling units
Your new neighbors won’t be too far away — single-family homes can add additional units
to their legal lots, creating homes for tenants on the same plots. Sometimes called “granny flats,” San Diego defines ADUs
with these key features:
- Up to 50% of the primary residence — not exceeding 1,200 sqft
- Provide one parking space unless public transit is accessible within one-half mile
- Must have a separate exterior entrance
- Cannot be used as short-term rentals, designed to be a more permanent solution
- Junior ADUs are under 500 sqft and do not have parking requirements
“Homes For All of Us” streamlined the application process + waived development impact fees for the first two ADUs, but instated requirements for tree canopies for lots exceeding 5,000 sqft.
🚐 Moveable tiny homes
In 2020, San Diego City Council approved a law allowing tiny, wheeled houses to reside on residential lots rather than just RV parks. These homes are similar to ADUs but they tend to be cheaper and smaller — generally 150-400 sqft.
This doesn’t make them RVs. MTHs are built like homes with open living spaces. They’re designed to be low cost, so tenants should pack lightly + get creative.
🏢 Micro-unit apartments
In North Park, a new apartment complex is being built on Oregon Street that’s a little different. The compact, “micro-unit” complex features 406-sqft studios + 593-sqft 1 BD units. The whole building is six stories and 16,000-sqft, but will offer 94 units when it opens in summer 2023.
While the concept isn’t common yet, we’ve seen similar designs at Nook East Village
+ The Continental
in Little Italy. Renters learn to pack a lot into their spaces and that sharing is caring by using public resources + integrating community spaces.