Accessory dwelling units: junior accessory dwelling units.

Assembly Member Carrillo's proposed changes to California's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations would eliminate parking requirements for units under 500 square feet while modifying owner-occupancy rules for junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs). The legislation builds upon existing state law governing these supplemental housing options in residential zones.

The bill revises parking standards for ADUs by prohibiting local agencies from imposing any parking requirements when units are 500 square feet or smaller. This adds to current exemptions for ADUs near public transit, in historic districts, or with car share access. The legislation maintains existing provisions that prevent permit denials based on zoning nonconformities or building code violations that don't impact public safety.

For JADUs, the proposal narrows owner-occupancy requirements to apply only when sanitation facilities are shared with the main residence. Property owners could occupy either the primary dwelling or the JADU in these cases. The bill also establishes that JADU rentals must exceed 30 days and reinforces existing standards for separate entrances, efficiency kitchens, and deed restrictions preventing separate sale of the units.

While the changes create new obligations for local governments regarding ADU and JADU approvals, the legislation specifies that municipalities can fund implementation through existing fees and assessments rather than requiring state reimbursement. Local agencies would need to update their ordinances and permitting processes to align with the modified standards.