California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA)
CalHFA ADU Grant Program is available to homeowners in San Diego, CA.
The CalHFA ADU Grant Program provides up to $40,000 to cover predevelopment costs for building an accessory dwelling unit on an owner-occupied property. Eligible costs include site prep, architectural designs, permits, soil tests, and impact fees. The grant does not cover construction costs, but significantly reduces the upfront barrier to building an ADU. Income limits and current funding availability vary by program round.
Must be owner-occupant; income limits vary by program round; covers pre-development costs only (not construction); check CalHFA.ca.gov for current availability and lender list
Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.
In San Diego, CA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:
A grant-savvy contractor in San Diego, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.
You will likely need a contractor to apply
Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in San Diego early keeps your application moving.
Get matched with a contractorEach program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.
The CalHFA ADU Grant reimburses up to 40,000 dollars of the predevelopment and non-recurring closing costs of building an accessory dwelling unit, such as site prep, architectural designs, permits, soil tests, impact fees, and surveys. You apply through a CalHFA-approved ADU lender or participant. Funding is released in rounds, so confirm a round is currently open before you count on it.
Steps to apply
Documents you will likely need
Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.
Deadline: Subject to funding availability, check CalHFA website for open rounds
Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.
Email us about this programUp to $40,000 grant for pre-development ADU costs.
CalHFA ADU Grant Program is open to homeowners in San Diego, CA.
Apply directly with California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) using the official program link on this page or call 1-877-922-5432. There is no middleman and no fee.
Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.
Rebates and discounts that stack on top of any grant. Most are free to use.
This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.
See All Programs