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Curious about the difference between an ADU and a Tiny Home in San Diego? Learn how they compare in cost, regulations, and design to find the best fit for your property.

If you’re a homeowner in San Diego planning to build an ADU, understanding the city’s permit process is crucial. Getting an ADU permit isn’t just a matter of paperwork and stamps — it’s a detailed, multi-step process involving prescreens, department reviews, and rechecks before you’re cleared to start construction.

The short answer is: it depends. Costs can vary widely depending on size, design, location, and construction method. Below, we’ll break down the main cost factors, explore differences between detached, attached, conversion, and prefab ADUs, and walk through a real-world example to give you a realistic picture.