Thinking of adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your home in San Diego? That’s a great idea! Their demand is skyrocketing throughout Southern California since they are ideal for extra rental income, multigenerational living, or even as a home office. However, before you sketch out the plans for your ADU kitchen, keep in mind the local regulations as building codes and kitchen layouts can be tricky to navigate.

The Heart of Your ADU

Indeed, every house has a central place where life happens and the kitchen will always be that. Whether you are planning a compact kitchenette or a full-featured cooking space, getting the requirements right from the start will save you future hassle and expensive revisions down the road.

Minimum ADU Kitchen Requirements in San Diego 

Like any other city, San Diego has its building codes for ADUs which include:

  • Adequate Space: Your ADU kitchen requires a minimum of 50 square feet of floor space. While this may sound small, smart design can make even compact kitchens highly functional.
  • Essential Appliances: Each ADU kitchen is required to have a sink with hot and cold water, a refrigerator, and a permanent cooking appliance (stove or cooktop. Microwave-only kitchens won’t satisfy code requirements.
  • Electrical Requirements: Your ADU kitchen must contain at least two 20-amp circuits devoted to small appliances, and appropriate GFCI shielding for each outlet on the countertop. You should also keep in mind the modern kitchen power needs, which are usually above the minimum requirements.
  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is non-negotiable! You’ll need either a range hood vented to the outside or a recirculating hood if external venting isn’t possible. This helps prevent moisture damage and improves air quality.
  • Lighting: Both general lighting and task lighting above work areas are required. Energy-efficient LED fixtures can help keep your utility bills in check.

Design Considerations Beyond Code

While meeting code requirements is essential, creating a functional and appealing kitchen involves much more:

Maximize Every Inch – In smaller ADUs, consider space-saving solutions like pull-out pantries, compact appliances, and multipurpose workspaces. A well-designed 70-square-foot kitchen can often feel more functional than a poorly designed 100-square-foot one!

Quality Matters – Don’t skimp on materials just because it’s an ADU. Durable countertops, quality cabinetry, and reliable appliances will ensure your investment stands the test of time.

Think About Tenants – If you’re planning to rent your ADU, consider kitchen features that will appeal to potential renters. Dishwashers, though not required by code, are highly desirable and can command higher rental rates.

Expert Help Makes All the Difference

Navigating building codes and designing a kitchen that maximizes both functionality and appeal requires expertise. At Jeff Seals Remodeling, we specialize in ADU design and construction throughout San Diego County. Our team understands the local requirements inside and out, and we’re committed to helping homeowners create beautiful, code-compliant ADU kitchens that enhance property values.

From initial design consultation through final inspection, we handle every aspect of your ADU kitchen project with meticulous attention to detail. Our relationships with suppliers mean we can often secure premium materials at competitive prices, helping you create a standout space without breaking your budget.

Your Perfect ADU Kitchen Awaits

The team at https://jeffsealsremodeling.com/ is here to help turn your vision into reality. Our experienced designers and craftsmen bring decades of combined experience to every project, ensuring your ADU kitchen not only meets all San Diego requirements but exceeds your expectations in every way. 

Contact our experienced team today for a consultation, and let’s get started on your dream ADU kitchen.