ADU design in Solana Beach
Solana Beach asks new ADUs to belong to their houses. That rule, plus a few on entrances and projections, shapes most designs. All from the Solana Beach ADU Submittal Process and Basic Plan Requirements (June 2025).
Matching
New-construction ADUs use the same architectural style, exterior materials and colors as the primary dwelling. Good design here is about proportion and detail within that palette.
Entrances and privacy
The ADU's primary entrance can't be visible from the street adjacent to the front yard setback. If the entrance faces the wall of another structure on the lot, keep 10 ft eave to eave.
Projections and accessory structures
- Eaves, awnings, canopies, bay windows and balconies: up to 2 ft, not into required side or rear yards
- Decks, patio covers and carports: follow zoning; not in side or rear setbacks, not on the roof
- Roof equipment shown with screening
Landscape
If aggregate landscape area exceeds 500 sq ft, a landscape package prepared by a licensed professional is required, with a planting plan, hydrozones and irrigation design under SBMC 17.56.
Kitchen specs to draw
| Item | Efficiency kitchen (studio up to 500 sq ft) | Full ADU kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Counters | 30 in clear minimum | 10 ft total of counters and wall cabinets |
| Sink | 18 in, 1.5 in drain, disposal | 24 in, 1.5 in drain, disposal |
| Refrigerator | 5 cu ft minimum | 12 cu ft minimum |
| Cooking | Two-burner stove, hard-wired gas or 220 V | Two appliances (stove, range, oven, microwave), hard-wired gas or 220 V |
Source: Solana Beach ADU handout (June 2025).
Design checklist
- Same style, materials and colors
- Entrance hidden from the street
- Equipment screened
- Eaves 2 ft max, out of setbacks
- Roof drains to landscaping
Also checked Oct 14, 2026: Solana Beach ADU Submittal Process and Basic Plan Requirements (June 2025).
Sources, checked Oct 14, 2026: Solana Beach ADU Submittal Process and Basic Plan Requirements (June 2025).
FAQ
Does my ADU have to match my house?
For new construction, yes: same architectural style, exterior materials and colors, per SBMC 17.60.210(A)(3)(l)(i).
Can the ADU have a balcony?
Architectural features may project 2 ft from the exterior wall, but not into required side or rear yards. Larger decks follow accessory structure rules.
When is a landscape plan needed?
If the aggregate landscape area of the project exceeds 500 sq ft.