ADU rules in Sacramento

Under the city's local option, one detached ADU up to 1,200 sq ft, or two detached ADUs with a combined 1,200 sq ft cap; under the state-standards option (Gov. Code 66323), one detached new-construction ADU up to 800 sq ft and 18 ft (20 ft to match the primary roof pitch).

Attached ADUs allowed up to the greater of 50% of the existing primary dwelling floor area or 850 sq ft (one bedroom or less) / 1,000 sq ft (more than one bedroom); conversions of existing space also allowed under the state-standards option.

A lot with a single-unit dwelling may have up to two ADUs, one ADU plus one JADU, or two JADUs; a duplex or multi-unit lot may have up to two ADUs under the local option, with more possible on multi-unit lots under the Gov. Code 66323 path (conversions of non-livable space up to 25% of existing units, up to 8 detached on existing multi-unit lots). ADUs occupying under 800 sq ft of lot coverage are exempt from lot coverage and open-space limits.

No owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs anywhere in the section, consistent with the statewide ban. JADUs only: unless owned by a government agency, land trust, or housing organization, the property owner must reside onsite.

This goes beyond the state ADU parking exemptions: the city abolished parking minimums for all uses (Table 17.608.030B sets only maximums).

Ministerial review; the city must approve or deny within 60 days of a complete application where a residential use exists, and the application is deemed approved if not acted on in 60 days. Deviations from development standards require site plan and design review under chapter 17.808.

Allowing short-term rental of locally approved ADUs is unusual and more permissive than most California cities. No minimum lease term for standard rentals is stated. ADUs may not be sold separately from the primary residence except as provided in Gov. Code 66341.