Why 4 is Fair . . . Everywhere

Capping the total number of dwelling units to four is a win/win for everyone.

 

Here's why FOUR is the right number . . .

THE BREAKDOWN:

1. Existing home

2. A converted ADU, such as a garage (State law)

3. A detached ADU (State law)

4. An Affordable deed-restricted Bonus ADU (San Diego incentive)

By capping the total units on all San Diego residential parcels to 4 TOTAL units (including the main home), San Diego would be:

• complying with State law

• protecting neighborhoods and homeownership, and

• fulfilling the Bonus ADU commitment it made to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) as part of the 2021—2029 Housing Element Cycle.

Four is the maximum number of units currently allowed OUTSIDE the Sustainable Development Area (SDA).

Our "4 is Fair Everywhere" proposal would:

• make ADU regulations clear and consistent citywide

• deter predatory investors from purchasing San Diego's starter homes

• truly provide equity for all by creating consistency across San Diego

• provide peace of mind by allowing residents to know exactly what can and cannot be built next to their homes

• create more options for families, renters, and homeowners by encouraging fewer but larger units instead of concentrating density in low-resource neighborhoods

• satisfy the HCD concerns outlined in this 06/13/2025 letter to the Planning Department

Our "4 is Fair Everywhere" proposal is the fairest and most rational solution to our City's ADU obligations.

Please contact your Councilmember and ask them to support our proposal of Four is Fair Everywhere proposal at the 2 PM City Council meeting on Monday (TODAY).

UPDATE: In response to the HCD letter, updated materials have been posted to the Agenda. You can find the Agenda here.

Neighbors For A Better San Diego | June 14, 2025

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