ADU permit process in Chula Vista, California
Last verified August 29, 2026
Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error
This guide includes the portions of the City permit process that passed our evidence review. Confirm project-specific requirements with the City before submitting.
Where to apply
- Department
- Development Services Department
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Prepare and submit City Standard ADU Building permit package
Complete the City Standard ADU checklist and required plan/package items Create a Citizen Access login Submit Building permit application and upload documents electronically Electronic Building permit application
- 2
Development Services electronic plan review
Monitor City communications and respond to review requirements Review requirements or readiness for issuance
- 3
Upload corrections or requested supporting documents
Use Resubmit for corrected documents Use Add for newly requested supporting documents or added plan-set volumes Paired resubmittal for City processing
- 4
Complete issuance requirements and receive electronic permit notice
Submit any City-requested forms before issuance Complete required payment Email notice once permit is issued
- 5
Schedule Building or Construction inspection
Schedule Building or Construction inspection through Citizen Access Inspection scheduling request
What you need to submit
- Location-specific Title 24 energy calculations
- Hold Harmless Agreement and Affidavit
- Completed City Standard ADU checklist and specified forms/documentation
- Selected City Standard ADU plan with completed title-sheet and project-specific plan information
- Owner/Builder Declaration or Licensed Contractor Declaration — only in some cases
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Chula Vista’s official page to confirm which designs, site conditions, and supplemental documents qualify. Plan-check timing still depends on the project and city review.
View pre-approved plansProject-specific next step
Build your Chula Vista permit report
Choose your ADU type and size to bring the City process, researched permit fees, and early construction budget into one planning report.
Sources for this guide
Additional city reference pages
- CityPermit Fee Costs
The current City page links the component fee bulletins and explains that fees depend on project size, complexity, value, permits, review time, and inspections; it requires applicability verification and recommends a pre-application estimate.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The official bulletin publishes base amounts at square-foot thresholds plus an additional amount per 100 square feet by occupancy and construction type; the linked bulletin itself is dated July 2017.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City bulletin lists a $147.35-per-square-foot valuation for R-3 Type V wood-frame dwellings and separate values for other construction types; it is dated July 2017.
Accessed August 28, 2026