Sacramento County • Permissiveness Score: 97/100
Sacramento, CA ADU Zoning Rules & Regulations
Sacramento has eliminated single-family exclusionary zoning and provides free, pre-approved building permit plans for standard backyard cottages.
Homeowner Action
Ready to verify your parcel setbacks?
Connects with up to 2 local licensed builders
Key Zoning Parameters for Sacramento
Verified 2026 Max Detached Size 1,200 sq ft
Max Attached Size 1200
Rear & Side Setbacks 4 ft rear / 4 ft side
Front Setback Underlying zone standard
Max Height Limit 24 feet (2 stories)
Owner Occupancy Not Required (Waived) No owner occupancy required.
Parking Requirements Exempt No replacement parking required.
Junior ADU (JADU) Allowed up to 500 sq ft within primary residence
Short Term Rentals (Airbnb) Prohibited Long-term tenancy preferred.
Estimated Permit Fees $2,000 - $4,500
Avg Review Timeline 3 - 6 weeks
Fire Sprinklers Only if primary dwelling requires sprinklers.
Governing Ordinances & State Laws
- ✓ Sacramento City Code Title 17
- ✓ Sacramento 2040 General Plan
Sacramento ADU Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free pre-approved ADU plans in Sacramento?
Yes, the City of Sacramento provides free pre-reviewed architectural construction documents for 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom detached ADUs.
Free Service
Check Your Specific Sacramento Lot
Enter your address to calculate your maximum building envelope and connect with top licensed ADU builders in Sacramento.
Top Builders in Sacramento
Verified Capital City ADU Group ★ 4.9
Design-Build Contractor • 38 local projects