Full ADU

Full ADU conversion across San Diego County

A full accessory dwelling unit conversion turns an attached or detached garage into a legally permitted, self-contained living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entry under California ADU law. We connect San Diego County homeowners with insured local crews that handle every phase from architectural drawings and permit submittal through framing, rough-in trades, insulation, drywall, and final inspection. Garage Convert SD is a referral service; verify any matched professional’s California contractor license at cslb.ca.gov.

Also called garage ADU, ADU construction, ADU construction cost, detached ADU, backyard ADU, granny flat conversion, or casita conversion across San Diego County. Same job, different names.

(858) 400-4935 Request a quote

Completed full ADU garage conversion with new windows, exterior siding, and a separate entry door beside the main home in a San Diego County neighborhood

What's included in garage to ADU conversion?

Architectural drawings and structural calculations scoped for ADU submittal at the city or county plan check office
Title 24 energy compliance documentation required for permitted ADU conversions in California
Garage door removal and wall infill with framing, insulation, and exterior finish matching the home
Full rough-in for a dedicated kitchen, bathroom, and laundry connection with licensed plumbing crews
Electrical panel upgrade or subpanel, dedicated circuits, and HVAC mini-split or forced-air system with insured electrical and HVAC crews
Interior finish including insulation, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and final building inspection

When do you need garage to ADU conversion?

You want to add rental income from your garage and need a fully permitted, rent-ready unit that passes a city inspection
An aging parent or adult child needs independent living space on your property without the cost of new construction
Your detached or attached garage is underused and your San Diego County property qualifies for an ADU under California law
You want to add appraised square footage and resale value with a permitted conversion rather than unpermitted work
You need a separate guest unit that does not require sharing the main home entry or bathroom

What do homeowners ask about Full ADU?

What does a full ADU conversion cost in San Diego?

A full ADU conversion in San Diego County typically runs $75,000-$150,000 depending on the garage size, finish level, structural requirements, and whether a panel upgrade is needed. Permit fees vary by city. The licensed pro you hire confirms the written price. Garage Convert SD sets no prices.

Do I need a permit for a full ADU garage conversion in San Diego?

Yes. A full ADU conversion requires building permits, architectural drawings, Title 24 energy compliance documentation, and plan check approval from your city or county. California law has streamlined the ADU permit process and limits permit fees, but permits are still required. The crews we refer handle all permitting when the scope calls for it.

Can I convert a detached garage to an ADU in San Diego County?

Yes. Detached garages are one of the most common ADU conversion types in San Diego County. California law allows detached garage conversions on most single-family lots regardless of lot size, subject to setback and height rules specific to your property. The licensed pro you hire confirms eligibility from the property and the reviewing department.

Will I lose my parking if I convert my garage to an ADU?

Yes, the garage parking space becomes living space. However, California law bars local agencies from requiring replacement parking when a garage is converted to an ADU, whether attached or detached. The City of San Diego still lists a Beach Impact area exception outside transit priority zones. For coastal parcels, confirm the current rule with Development Services.

How long does a full ADU conversion take?

There is no single published timeline for a full ADU conversion. State law gives the agency 60 days to approve or deny a completed application, and that clock starts once the application is complete, not at first submittal. It is a permit decision deadline, not a construction schedule or an approval guarantee. After permits are issued, the licensed pro sets the project timeline from the approved plans and the site conditions.