California ADU Laws in 2026, Explained Simply

Last updated: October 2026

Short answer: In 2026, most California homeowners with a single-family or multifamily home can build an ADU by right. That means the city has to approve it if it meets objective written standards, with no public hearing. State law allows a detached ADU of up to 1,200 sq ft, generally requires only 4-foot side and rear setbacks, bans impact fees on ADUs with 750 sq ft or less of interior space, and doesn't require you to live on the property. New this year: SB 543 measures ADU size by interior living space and waives school fees at 500 sq ft or less, and AB 1154 lets you rent out a junior ADU without living there, as long ...

How Much Does an ADU Cost in the Central Valley? (2026 Guide)

Short answer: The cost of an ADU in the Central Valley comes down to four things: its size, your site, your utility connections, and the finishes you choose. City fees add to that, but they're usually a small part of the total here. A 627 sq ft ADU in Porterville ran about $5,700 in total city fees. California law also waives impact fees on ADUs with 750 sq ft or less of interior space, and school fees at 500 sq ft or less. The fastest way to get a real, current number is a free lot review.

Building costs move, so we don't post one-size-fits-all prices. We price your plan for your property. Here's what goes into that number and how...

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