SB 1211 Signed: California supercharges Granny Flats/ADU construction
SB 1211 Signed: California supercharges Granny Flats/ADU construction
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 1211, dramatically expanding opportunities for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on multifamily properties.
Why it matters: ADUs, also known as granny flats, second units, or backyard cottages, are the fastest-growing sector of California's housing market. They are often the quickest infill units to build.
The details:
SB 1211 quadruples the number of detached ADUs allowed on multifamily properties from two to eight.
These ADUs can be approved with a ministerial permit, avoiding long permitting times.
Property owners can replace carports or driveways with ADUs without being required to replace that parking.
The bill applies to properties with apartments, condos, or townhouses.
What they're saying: "SB 1211 will further boost California's ADU market by increasing the number of detached ADUs allowed on multifamily properties that can be approved quickly and avoid long permitting times," said Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the bill's author and chair of the Senate Housing Committee.
Context: ADUs have been booming in California due to:
Lower construction costs compared to traditional housing
Easier building process (now even easier!)
Recent laws removing obstacles and streamlining permitting
By the numbers:
Current limit: 2 detached ADUs on multifamily properties
New limit: 8 detached ADUs
Effective date: January 1, 2025
The big picture: This bill is part of a larger suite of housing bills signed by Gov. Newsom on September 19, 2024, to help California's housing shortage.
What's next:
Housing experts will watch how quickly property owners take advantage of these new provisions.