Encinitas Forum teamStaff
How do I permit an ADU in Encinitas? What is the PRADU program?
We're considering a backyard ADU. What does the City's process look like, and what are the preapproved plans?
Accepted answer
Encinitas Forum teamStaff
ADU vs. JADU
An ADU is an attached or detached unit on the same lot as an existing home, with its own complete living facilities. A junior ADU (JADU) is no more than 500 square feet, sits entirely within a single-family home and has an efficiency kitchen [1].
The process
- Talk with City staff early, including the water district that serves the property: San Dieguito Water District or Olivenhain Municipal Water District [1].
- Submit through the Customer Self Service (CSS) portal. The City estimates review at about 15 working days [1].
- In the Coastal Zone, many ADUs also need a Coastal Development Permit [1].
Fees
The City waives plan review and inspection fees for ADUs, except for required state fees, postage fees for Coastal Development Permits, and County Recorder fees for the required covenant [1].
PRADU: preapproved plans
The Permit-Ready ADU (PRADU) program offers City-preapproved plans, from studios to three bedrooms, that you can download. Since January 1, 2025, private parties can also get ADU plans preapproved under AB 1332. Changing a preapproved plan disqualifies it, and the project then goes through standard review [1].
Sources checked Oct 3, 2026. Rules and hours change, so confirm with the source before you act. This is general information, not legal, medical or financial advice.