Sacramento County sees sharp increase in Accessory Dwelling Unit permits amid CA housing crisis

Sacramento County is experiencing a dramatic surge in Accessory Dwelling Unit permits as homeowners seek solutions to California's ongoing housing affordability crisis.

ADU permits in the county nearly tripled between 2021 and 2022, with 237 units completed last year alone, according to data from the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

These secondary structures, which can serve as in-law suites, backyard cottages, or rental units, are gaining traction as both an income opportunity for property owners and a potential source of affordable housing.

The trend comes as two significant bills await Governor Newsom's signature that could further accelerate ADU development across the state.

Assembly Bill 1033 would allow cities to decide whether property owners can sell ADUs separately from their primary residence, while Assembly Bill 976 would permanently eliminate local requirements forcing property owners to live on-site and allow unrestricted rental of ADU properties.

Industry experts estimate that Sacramento County alone has approximately 50,000 single-family properties suitable for ADU development based on lot size and zoning requirements.

County officials attribute the permit surge to rising rental costs and increased demand for affordable housing alternatives, with some projects receiving approval in as little as 30 days.