4 California ADU Laws You’ll Love in 2025!

January 21, 2025

Exciting changes are coming to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in California starting January 1, 2025! These updates create more opportunities for property owners while addressing the state’s housing challenges. Let’s dive into the key changes:

1. SB 1211: More ADUs for Multifamily Properties

Multifamily property owners can now build up to eight detached ADUs—previously capped at two. This change allows property owners to maximize rental income and make a significant dent in local housing shortages. Note: The number of ADUs cannot exceed the total existing units on the property.

2. AB 2533: Legalizing Existing Unpermitted ADUs

Built an ADU or Junior ADU (JADU) before January 1, 2020, but never got a permit? AB 2533 creates a pathway to compliance, easing the burden of bringing these structures up to code. Permits cannot be denied for minor building standard violations unless the structure is deemed substandard.

3. AB 434: Streamlined ADU Approvals

By 2025, all California municipalities must offer pre-approved ADU designs to simplify the permitting process. This initiative saves homeowners time and money, ensuring quicker project approvals and easier compliance with local regulations.

4. AB 976: No More Owner-Occupancy Requirements

AB 976 eliminates owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs, giving homeowners the freedom to rent their ADUs without living on the property. This update is a game-changer for property owners looking to maximize rental potential or diversify income streams.

These legislative changes are designed to simplify ADU development, improve housing availability, and offer financial benefits to property owners.

For more information about these updates, visit the California Housing and Community Development ADU Resources page

https://www.hcd.ca.gov/policy-and-research/accessory-dwelling-units

We've compiled local resources and links to make the search process as easy as possible. Click on your city below to see the Pre-Reviewed ADU plans and other city-specific information.

County of SLO (for San Miguel, Templeton & other unincorporated cities)

https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/planning-building/how-to-apply-for-a-permit-in-unincorporated-slo-co/land-use,-subdivision,-zoning/land-use-permit/land-use-permit/acessory-dwelling-units/accessory-dwelling-units

City of Paso Robles:

https://www.prcity.com/1237/Preapproved-ADU-Plans

City of Atascadero:

https://www.atascadero.org/service/ADUs

City of Arroyo Grande:

https://www.arroyogrande.org/796/Pre-Designed-Accessory-Dwelling-Units

City of Santa Maria (plans coming soon):

https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/community-development/building-division-homepage/building-plan-review

Don't see your city here? Send us a message and we will send it your way!

Amber Johnson, Founder
Pillar Real Estate
805.835.3425
[email protected]
1345 Park St. Paso Robles, CA 93446
DRE# 01925434