Changes to California ADU Laws 2025

New California ADU Laws 2025

In 2025, California will introduce several new laws and updates aimed at further encouraging the development of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and streamlining the process for homeowners. Here are the key changes:

1. Pre-Approved ADU Plans (AB 434): By January 1, 2025, all cities and municipalities in California must offer pre-approved ADU design plans. This initiative aims to reduce costs and accelerate the approval process for homeowners, providing a smoother pathway to build ADUs by eliminating lengthy design reviews and approvals. This in turn will allow builders to deliver your new ADU sooner.

   Source: hometelligentinc, EZ Plans

   
   

2. Extension of No Owner-Occupancy Requirements (AB 976): Starting in 2025, there will be no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs, meaning homeowners will not need to live on-site to build or rent out an ADU. This change is intended to boost property investment opportunities. However, Junior ADUs (JADUs) will still require the owner to live on the property. A change like this will allow for more homes and ADUs to be available to more renters.

   Source: Maxable, EZ Plans

   
   

3. Unpermitted ADU Amnesty (AB 2533): Homeowners with unpermitted ADUs built before January 1, 2020, can now apply for permits without facing automatic rejection for minor building code violations. The focus will be on health and safety compliance rather than strict code adherence. Additionally, local agencies cannot impose fees like impact or connection charges for these ADUs, easing the financial burden on homeowners seeking legalization. This is great news for numerous homeowners that got an early start with an ADU before many laws were really in place.

   Souce: Maxable

   
   

4. ADUs in Coastal Zones (SB 1077): By 2026, the California Coastal Commission will streamline ADU regulations in coastal areas, offering clearer guidelines and fewer barriers for homeowners developing ADUs near the coast. This change will ensure smoother permitting in these previously restricted regions. This is a welcome change for renters as these locations typically have higher rental rates and a limited inventory.

   Source: Maxable

   
   
   
   

These updates reflect California’s ongoing efforts to address the state’s housing crisis by making it easier and more cost-effective to build ADUs, whether for rental income, extended family use, or property investment. Here at Atra Construction we are excited to see how these new regulations open up the ADU market for numerous California renters and landlords.

Are you ready to get started with your project? Get in touch with the experienced professionals here at Atra Construction today!