Every ADU is a puzzle built from real constraints. A proper site evaluation looks at:
- Setbacks and buildable area
- Existing structures (home, garage, sheds)
- Utility locations (water, sewer, electrical, gas)
- Drainage patterns and grading
- Access for construction (can equipment reach the backyard?)
- Privacy lines: neighbors, windows, sightlines
- Parking and driveway use
- Trees and landscaping you want to keep
San Diego tip: Coastal lots often prioritize privacy and views, while inland lots may offer more space but require heat-conscious design. Either way, the goal is to design a unit that feels intentional, not squeezed in.