On Tuesday, the City Council approved permit-ready building plans that Carlsbad homeowners can use to build a stand-alone accessory dwelling unit through an expedited process.

• As part of a series of new California laws aimed at providing more affordable housing, the state now requires cities like Carlsbad to encourage homeowners to consider building accessory dwelling units, which can be attached to the main house or a stand-alone housing unit.
• These used to be called granny flats or garage apartments.
• As a bonus, these plans were created with Carlsbad in mind, so the finished product will blend in well with the surrounding neighborhood.
• The program was developed based on community input gathered last summer.

The new ADU Permit Ready Program includes pre-approved building plans for four floor plans and features three architectural styles.

Details on how to apply for a permit using the new ADU Permit Ready Program, along with the permit ready plans and architectural styles are available on the city's website.

During last week's meeting, the City Council also approved updates to the city's zoning ordinance (city laws) and Local Coastal Program to align with recent changes in state laws requiring expedited permitting for accessory dwelling units.

More information
May 23 City Council staff report
ADU Permit Ready Program
Accessory dwelling units
Carlsbad’s Housing Plan
Information on recent legislation