Affordable ADUs in Del Mar
Del Mar's Housing Element sets a goal of 15 ADUs rented to low-income households by April 2029 (City of Del Mar ADU page). The city's code backs it with an Incentive Program (Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 30.91 (June 2025), §30.91.070).
Incentive Program
| Lot | Incentive for a deed-restricted low-income ADU |
|---|---|
| Single dwelling or duplex | One bonus JrADU of up to 500 sq ft, plus a 500 sq ft FAR bonus |
| Three or more units (RM, R2, commercial zones) | Proportional bonus ADUs or JrADUs, max 15 per project, exempt from FAR and lot coverage, within existing walls or one new structure |
| All | May include fee waivers or refunds; requires an Administrative CDP |
Source: DMMC §30.91.070.
Income figures the city published
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| San Diego AMI (eff. Apr 16, 2025) | $130,800 |
| One-person low-income limit | $92,700 |
| Affordable rent plus utilities, one person | About $2,318 per month |
Source: City of Del Mar ADU page. Limits update yearly.
Reporting
ADU and JrADU owners are asked annually whether the unit was rented to low- or moderate-income tenants, occupied or vacant.
Incentive math
The verification form describes the program simply: a 500 sq ft floor area bonus in exchange for a 30-year low-income rental commitment. HCD's handbook notes that cities generally can't impose affordability deed restrictions on ADUs, so this is voluntary.
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) · City of Del Mar ADU page.
Questions
What incentives does Del Mar offer for affordable ADUs?
On single dwelling or duplex lots, a bonus JrADU up to 500 sq ft and a 500 sq ft FAR bonus for a deed-restricted low-income ADU; larger lots get proportional bonus units.