More doors. Pencil-perfect plans.
Small-lot multifamily is one of the strongest returns in the SD market — but only if the design pencils and the entitlement clears. ADU PALS delivers full multifamily architecture and permitting from feasibility through permit-ready plans, with a build option under the same roof.
What's included
Multifamily projects live and die on unit count, unit mix, and hitting the density bonuses right. Every project starts with an entitlement analysis.
- 01 Zoning + density analysis (state bonuses, SB 9, local overlays)
- 02 Unit mix + yield studies to maximize NOI
- 03 Site plan, unit plans, elevations, sections
- 04 Structural + MEP + Title 24
- 05 City permit submission + plan check management
- 06 Coastal Commission or historic review where applicable
- 07 Fire access, parking, trash enclosure engineering
- 08 Optional design-build under one contract
How multifamily projects work
Feasibility + yield
Zoning read, density bonus screen, and 2–3 yield options showing unit count and NOI potential.
Design
Unit plans, site plan, exterior design, coordination with civil + structural.
Entitlements + permits
CUP, coastal, historic where required. Full permit set to the city.
Build coordination
Optional in-house construction, or handoff to your chosen GC.
Common questions
01 Can I build a duplex or triplex on an R-1 lot in San Diego?
In many cases, yes — SB 9 allows duplex conversion on R-1 lots, and state ADU law effectively adds two more units on qualifying properties. Combined pathways can produce 4–6 units on a single R-1 lot. Every lot is different; we run the analysis in feasibility.
02 What does multifamily design cost?
Design + engineering + permits typically run 6–10% of construction cost. A 4-unit small-lot project usually runs $80K–$180K for the full architectural package.
03 How long does entitlement take?
For by-right projects (no CUP), plan on 6–9 months to permit. For projects requiring Coastal Commission review or discretionary approvals, 12–24 months.
04 Do you help with the density bonus law?
Yes. California's state density bonus law adds units on top of base zoning in exchange for affordable set-asides. It's project-specific and we screen every lot for eligibility during feasibility.
05 Do you build multifamily projects too?
Yes. Our in-house GC handles small-scale multifamily construction. For larger projects (10+ units) we sometimes recommend a specialized multifamily builder — we'll tell you honestly what's the best fit.
Often paired with this.
Urban Infill Development in San Diego
Every SD neighborhood has lots that could hold two or three times what's on them today. Urban infill is the art of unlocking that density without over…
Learn more →Lot Feasibility & Site Planning in San Diego
The biggest mistake in real estate is buying a lot on assumption. ADU PALS does pre-purchase and pre-design feasibility studies — zoning, overlays, se…
Learn more →Custom Home Design + Architecture in San Diego
Custom homes live or die at the concept phase — before the first foundation drawing. ADU PALS delivers full custom home architecture with an in-house …
Learn more →Have a lot with potential?
Free feasibility screen. We tell you what pencils and what doesn't.