Bill > SB531

This bill requires localities to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which are independent living spaces on a residential lot that include facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation, as a permitted use in single-family residential zoning districts. To build an ADU, a person must obtain a permit from the locality, which must issue it if the applicant meets specific requirements, and the permit fee is capped at $500. The bill prohibits localities from imposing stricter requirements on ADUs than those for primary single-family dwellings regarding height, setbacks, lot size, or building frontage, and also prohibits requiring a familial relationship between ADU and primary dwelling occupants. While localities can impose certain conditions like minimum lease terms, dedicated parking, and limits on ADU size, they cannot require improvements to public streets unless directly related to ADU construction, nor can they impose restrictive covenants on ADUs. This bill will take effect on July 1, 2027, with some exceptions for localities that have already adopted ADU ordinances.