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Nucave Construction

Design · Permit · Build

ADU Builder in Carlsbad, CA

Nucave is a licensed ADU builder serving Carlsbad. One team designs, permits and builds your ADU, start to finish.

  • Licensed CA contractor, CSLB #1013360
  • Design, permits and construction under one roof
  • Based in Vista, in business since 2016
Carlsbad ADU Rules & Zoning

Get a free Carlsbad ADU consultation

Tell us where to reach you. We usually reply within one business day.

Do you own this property?

Prefer to talk? (760) 310-2393

Building in Carlsbad

What we handle for your Carlsbad ADU

Every city plays by different rules. These are the ones that shape an ADU here.

Coastal permits, handled

Detached ADUs in Carlsbad's Coastal Zone need a minor coastal permit, while conversions and attached units are generally exempt. We confirm your parcel's status first and plan the schedule around it.

Two stories where it counts

Attached ADUs can go two stories, up to 25 feet. Detached units are generally single story at 16 feet, or taller near the Village and Poinsettia stations. We help you pick the layout that fits your lot.

Garage conversions keep their footprint

Converting an existing garage can keep its current footprint, even where it sits inside today's setbacks. It is often the fastest way to add a unit in Carlsbad.

How it works

One team from lot check to keys

No handoffs between a designer, an expediter and a contractor. We own every step.

  1. 1

    Lot check

    We review your parcel against Carlsbad rules: size, setbacks, utilities and any coastal or fire overlays.

  2. 2

    Design and engineering

    Floor plan, elevations, structural and Title 24, designed around how you will use the unit.

  3. 3

    Carlsbad permits

    We submit to the City of Carlsbad, answer every correction and keep your permit moving.

  4. 4

    Build to keys

    One crew, one point of contact, through final inspection and move-in.

Client reviews

What ADU clients say about Nucave

“Major props to the guys at Nucave for transforming our unfinished garage into a complete masterpiece of an ADU that our mom can now live in. They kept us in the loop about every update and had the place move-in ready the same week she made her drive.”
Bailey S., Garage ADU for family
“Nucave was a lifesaver after another contractor was fired. The workmanship was exceptional, the price was competitive, and the materials were top of the line. They had my back in every way.”
Monica M., Custom ADU
“Nucave brought my ADU vision to life. I had a dilapidated detached garage with many issues, and they guided me in the right direction and helped me overcome obstacle after obstacle with the city of San Diego. They did everything they said they would do and more.”
Dustin V., Garage conversion ADU, San Diego
Read all reviews

Carlsbad ADU questions

Before you hire an ADU builder

It depends on size, type, site work and finishes. ADUs under 750 sq ft and all Junior ADUs pay no impact fees in Carlsbad, and the city's process is ministerial. Our ADU cost planner gives you a range in about two minutes, and a free consultation turns that into a real number for your lot.

Free consultation

Ready to build your Carlsbad ADU?

Thirty minutes with a licensed ADU builder who knows the Carlsbad rules. No pressure, no obligation.

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