In accordance with the city’s Housing Element Program 1.2, the city is offering free pre-approved ADU building plans that provide a variety of options in terms of size, type and style. These preapproved plans are intended to encourage the development of accessory dwelling units by saving homeowners three to six months of planning and design time and the approximately $8,000-$16,000 in private architectural design fees associated with preparing ADU building plans. For more information, please visit the ADU Permit Ready Program webpage.

Our goal is to ensure compliance with established regulations to protect public health, safety and general welfare and maintain the unique quality of life we enjoy in the City of Carlsbad. We hope that you will do your part to help us achieve this goal together. 

To help folks navigate and understand the code enforcement reporting process, the Department created the Code Enforcement Case Prioritization and Process Guide. 

Carlsbad Connects

You can use the Carlsbad Connects app to report an issue in your neighborhood that needs to be addressed.

Download the Carlsbad Connects app to submit a report, and staff will provide assistance or address the issue as quickly as possible.

Per the Municipal Code, short-term vacation rentals must have a:

1. Business license. Owners of short-term vacation rentals must have a current business license on file with the city, which is processed through the city’s Finance Department. Business licenses are available to apply online. To learn more, visit the business license webpage or email business.license@carlsbadca.gov.

    

2. Short-term vacation rental permit. These are annual permits (one permit required per address/unit) and are processed through the city’s Community Development Department. To learn more or apply, please visit our short-term vacation rental permit webpage.