Latest ADU News & Updates
Stay informed about California ADU regulations and changes
January 2026Legislation
6 Major New Housing Laws Take Effect
California passes wave of new housing laws making ADU permits faster and more accessible
Key Points:
- •AB 253: Third-party plan checks now available - agencies must allow independent plan reviewers
- •AB 1308: 10-day final inspection deadline enforced
- •AB 1061: SB9 now works in historic districts
- •AB 1206: Pre-approved housing plans required by July 2026
- •AB 818: 45-day permit deadline for disaster rebuilds
- •AB 1154: JADU update allows turning one home into 3 rentals
January 2026Major Update
Owner-Occupancy Requirements Permanently Removed
AB 976 extends prohibition indefinitely - no more owner-occupancy requirements for new ADUs
Key Points:
- •Local agencies cannot impose owner-occupancy conditions on ADUs permitted after Jan 1, 2025
- •Removes major barrier for rental income and investment properties
- •Applies to both new construction and converted ADUs
- •Property owners can live off-site and rent both main house and ADU
January 2026Expansion
Multiple ADU/JADU Combinations Now Allowed
SB 543 clarifies you can now build multiple accessory units on one lot
Key Points:
- •One internal ADU + one internal JADU + one detached ADU (up to 800 sq ft) all permitted on single-family properties
- •Detached ADU and converted ADU (garage conversion) can coexist on same lot
- •JADU can include up to 150 sq ft expansion for separate access
- •All units must be ministerially approved - no discretionary review
July 2026 DeadlineUpcoming
Coastal Zone ADU Streamlining Coming
California Coastal Commission must provide guidance to simplify ADU approvals in coastal areas
Key Points:
- •Coastal property owners will see faster, easier ADU approval process
- •Local governments must amend coastal programs to streamline ADUs
- •Previously difficult coastal zone restrictions being lifted
- •Guidance expected by July 1, 2026
2026 OngoingEquality
JADU Parity Achieved
Junior ADUs now have same benefits and protections as full ADUs
Key Points:
- •Fire sprinkler requirements aligned with ADU rules
- •Ministerial approval process now applies to JADUs
- •HCD review and oversight extended to JADU ordinances
- •Rental term minimums no longer required for separate sanitation JADUs
2026 StandardProcess
Faster Permit Timelines Enforced
New shot clock rules ensure quicker approvals and inspections
Key Points:
- •60-day maximum for ministerial ADU permit review
- •10-day deadline for final inspections after notification
- •Third-party plan checks available if city delays
- •Penalties for agencies that miss deadlines
Disclaimer: This information is current as of January 2026. ADU laws are subject to change. Always verify with your local planning department and consult with licensed professionals before proceeding with construction.