Background 

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have been known by many names: granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, secondary units and more. No matter what you call them, ADUs are an innovative, affordable, effective option for adding much-needed housing in California.  The State Legislature recently adopted new housing related laws pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These new State laws went into effect on January 1, 2020 and are applicable in all single-family and multiple-family zoning districts.  On June 9, 2020, the City Council adopted Ordinance 2020-05, amending the Zoning Ordinance regulations regarding ADUs to bring into conformance with State law.  On July 20, 2021, the City Council adopted Ordinance 2021-14, updating the regulations regarding junior accessory dwelling units.

What are the benefits of ADUs?

• ADUs are an affordable type of home to construct in California because they do not require paying for land, major new infrastructure, structured parking, or elevators.

• ADUs can provide a source of income for homeowners.

• ADUs are built with cost-effective wood frame construction, which is significantly less costly than homes in new multifamily infill buildings.

• ADUs allow extended families to be near one another while maintaining privacy.

• ADUs can provide as much living space as many newly-built apartments and condominiums, and they’re suited well for couples, small families, friends, young people, and seniors.

• ADUs give homeowners the flexibility to share independent living areas with family members and others, allowing seniors to age in place as they require more care.