More doors. Pencil-perfect plans.
Small-lot multifamily up to four units is one of the strongest returns in the SD market — but only if the design pencils and the entitlement clears. ADU PALS delivers full design and permitting for duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes from feasibility through permit-ready plans. For projects above four units, we refer to a licensed architect.
What's included
Small-lot multifamily lives and dies 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 (up to 4 units) 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 construction handoff to our sister firm ArkHaven Builders
How small-lot multifamily projects work
Feasibility + yield
Zoning read, density bonus screen, and 2–3 yield options showing unit count and NOI potential (up to 4 units).
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 construction handoff to our sister firm ArkHaven Builders, or 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 units on a single R-1 lot. Every lot is different; we run the analysis in feasibility.
02 What is the largest project ADU PALS can design?
Up to 4 units per project — the residential scope our design + drafting team handles. For projects with 5+ units, we refer you to a qualified licensed architect we trust, since the design work above that threshold requires an architect's stamp under state law.
03 What does small-lot 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 design package.
04 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.
05 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 (within our 4-unit design scope).
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Free feasibility screen for small-lot multifamily up to 4 units. We tell you what pencils and what doesn't.