ADU Rules: Carmichael vs Folsom
How do adu rules rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Folsom, CA?
Carmichael and Folsom 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 →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom must allow ADUs on all residential lots under CA Gov Code §65852.2. Ministerial approval within 60 days for ADUs up to 800 sq ft with 4-foot setbacks, no owner-occupancy requirement, and no parking within 1/2 mile of transit. Folsom has adopted an ADU ordinance with local standards that cannot fall below state minimums.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 1,200 sq ft detached | - |
| Setbacks | 4 ft side and rear | 4 ft rear/side |
| Review | 60 days ministerial | - |
| Parking | Often not required | None w/in 1/2 mi transit |
| Fees | Waived under 750 sq ft | - |
| State Law | - | Gov Code §65852.2 |
| Size | - | Up to 800 sq ft ministerial |
| Timeline | - | 60-day approval |
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.
Folsom FAQ
Can Folsom deny my ADU permit?
Only for objective code violations (safety, setbacks from state minimums, utilities). The city cannot deny based on neighborhood character, discretionary design review, or owner-occupancy preference under state law.
Can I rent my Folsom ADU on Airbnb?
ADUs cannot be rented for terms under 30 days under state law (Gov Code §65852.2(a)(6)). Long-term rental is permitted; short-term vacation rental is not.
Compare other topics
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