Parking for a Del Mar ADU
Del Mar is one of the few cities where ADU parking still comes up, because of shoreline access (Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 30.91 (June 2025)).
| Situation | Parking |
|---|---|
| Within half a mile of a major transit stop | None |
| Shoreline or high-wildfire hillside areas | One space, unless an exception applies |
| Exceptions | Outside the Coastal Commission appeals jurisdiction; inside the house or an existing accessory building; within half a mile walking of transit (not where on-street parking affects shoreline access); historic district; within a block of car share |
| Street 20 ft wide or less | One off-street space for emergency access |
| Garage converted or demolished | Replacement only if loss significantly affects public shoreline access |
Source: DMMC §30.91.040(O), (P).
Where spaces can go
- Covered or uncovered
- In a driveway or setback on an improved surface
- Tandem, or a mechanical lift inside a garage
- Never in steep slopes, wetlands, geological setbacks or sensitive habitat
Questions homeowners ask
- What is California's new parking law? State law limits ADU parking; Del Mar's certified code adds coastal-access provisions.
- Can an HOA stop me from building an ADU? State law restricts HOAs from prohibiting ADUs; check CC&Rs for reasonable restrictions.
Driveway rules on the engineering plan
- New driveway approaches to city standards and perpendicular to the street where possible
- Decorative pavers outside the public right-of-way
- Encroachment permit for work in the right-of-way
- All driveways and turnarounds dimensioned on the site plan
Questions the city asks
- Will the ADU eliminate existing parking?
- Is a space proposed for the ADU?
Also checked Oct 14, 2026: Del Mar ADU Application Packet (Rev. 2024) · HCD ADU Handbook (March 2026).
Sources, checked Oct 14, 2026: Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 30.91 (June 2025).
Questions
Does my Del Mar ADU need parking?
Often not. One space can be required in shoreline and high-wildfire hillside areas without an exception, and on streets 20 ft wide or less.