Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance Amendment Project

The 2023-2031 Housing Element, Housing Element Program HE-6, directs the City to facilitate production of ADUs and to identify ways to streamline the application process to reduce the time it takes to get a building permit, including use of pre-approved plans.

In 2017, the State legislature made significant changes to the manner by which local governments can regulate ADUs. In 2018, the City adopted an ADU Ordinance, which was subsequently amended in 2023 to incorporate additional ADU legislation enacted by the State. In May of 2025, the City implemented a Pre-Approved ADU Program required by Assembly Bill 1332 (AB 1332). As of February 2026, approximately 722 ADUs have been constructed and many more have received building permits or are pending approval.

Despite the City’s success in the number of ADUs permitted, the permit process for ADUs can be confusing and complicated for property owners, and staff spends significant time explaining the ordinance, fees, procedures, and vetting various permutations of proposed ADUs. Property owners have also expressed interest in increasing the allowed number of ADUs on properties with existing multi-unit development.

Therefore, to facilitate further production of ADUs and meet the objective of 629 ADUs permitted during the Housing Element 6th cycle, the City is amending the ADU ordinance to comply with recent changes in State law and clarify local regulations to support community goals and values.