ADU Rules: Carmichael vs Courtland
How do adu rules rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Courtland, CA?
Carmichael and Courtland have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
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.
View full Carmichael rules →Courtland, CA
Sacramento County
Courtland is an unincorporated Sacramento River Delta community in Sacramento County, governed by Sacramento County Zoning Code §5.4.5 (Accessory Dwelling Units), not a city ordinance. The County allows one ADU plus one JADU on single-family lots, with detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft. Delta levee and floodplain rules add review through the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency.
View full Courtland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Courtland |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 1,200 sq ft detached | - |
| Setbacks | 4 ft side and rear | - |
| Review | 60 days ministerial | - |
| Parking | Often not required | - |
| Fees | Waived under 750 sq ft | - |
| Governing Code | - | Sac County Zoning Code §5.4.5 |
| Max Detached | - | 1,200 sq ft |
| Floodplain | - | Chapter 16.04 (lowest-floor elev.) |
| Setback (side/rear) | - | 4 ft (new construction) |
| Levee Setback | - | May apply (Cal. Water Code) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Can I build both an ADU and a JADU?
Yes. State law allows one detached ADU plus one JADU inside the primary dwelling on a single-family lot.
Do I need to live on-site?
Owner-occupancy is required for JADUs but not for standard ADUs under current state law.
Courtland FAQ
Who regulates ADUs in Courtland?
Courtland is unincorporated, so Sacramento County Planning regulates ADUs under Sacramento County Zoning Code §5.4.5, not a separate city ordinance.
Do floodplain rules apply to Courtland ADUs?
Yes for parcels in FEMA Zones A or AE — the lowest floor must be elevated at or above the base flood elevation under Sacramento County Floodplain Management Ordinance Chapter 16.04, and flood-resistant materials are required below that elevation.
Are there levee setbacks for ADUs near Delta levees?
Yes for parcels adjacent to State Plan of Flood Control project levees — the Central Valley Flood Protection Board requires encroachment permits and setbacks under California Water Code §8700 et seq.
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