San Diego Caps ADUs, Ends Bonus Program

The San Diego City Council narrowly passed new restrictions on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), capping units per lot at four, five, or six based on lot size and ending unlimited development under the bonus ADU program. The amendments apply only to future projects and leave existing developments unaffected. Additional reforms include infrastructure fees, stricter parking and fire safety rules, and permission for ADUs to be sold as condominiums. These measures address community concerns about neighborhood character, over-densification, parking, and fire safety, especially in high-risk wildfire areas. While most public comments favored tighter controls, some worried the changes could jeopardize affordable housing supply and threaten San Diego's compliance with state housing law. The decision reflects a compromise between housing advocates and residents seeking to limit excessive development.