ADU rules in Carmichael, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Sacramento County permits ADUs and JADUs on all residential lots per Government Code 65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft, 4 ft setbacks, and streamlined 60-day ministerial review are standard.
County Code Title 22 Zoning incorporates state ADU mandates (Gov Code 65852.2, AB 68, SB 13, AB 881, AB 1033). On single-family lots, one ADU plus one JADU are allowed by right. Detached ADUs are permitted up to 1,200 sq ft or 50 percent of primary unit for attached ADUs. Side and rear setbacks are 4 feet minimum. Height limit is 16 ft for detached ADUs, with up to 18 or 25 ft allowed per state law exceptions near transit or on larger lots. Replacement parking is not required when a garage is converted. No owner-occupancy requirement (except JADUs). No impact fees on ADUs under 750 sq ft. Permit review must be ministerial within 60 days.
Local ordinance provisions that conflict with state ADU law are unenforceable under HCD review. Permit denial for state-compliant designs can be appealed.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle adu rules.
See how Carmichael's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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