AB 956 – Two Detached ADUs on One Lot
Double the housing, double the flexibility—on a single-family property
AB 956 allows homeowners to build two detached ADUs on a single-family residential lot, marking a significant shift in what’s possible for backyard housing in California. This is a major win for families, renters, and small-scale housing providers looking to maximize the potential of existing lots.
Just as important, cities must approve these projects ministerially—meaning no public hearings, no neighbor objections, and no discretionary reviews. If your project meets the code, it must be approved.
What This Means for Homeowners and Small Developers
If you’ve ever thought:
“I’d like to build housing for multiple family members,”
“I want to create two rental units for added income,”
“I wish I could build more without going through a long approval process,”
AB 956 opens the door.
Key Benefits:
Two detached ADUs allowed on a single-family lot—no need to choose between housing options,
No public hearing required—approval is by-right if zoning and building codes are met,
Supports multigenerational living, passive income, or future flexibility,
Helps address California’s housing shortage through gentle, incremental density.
This is ideal for families looking to house adult children, aging parents, or long-term tenants—without navigating rezoning or complex permitting hurdles.
How New Avenue Homes Can Help
At New Avenue, we’ve been building ADUs for over 15 years—and now that the law allows two detached ADUs, we’re here to help you take full advantage of this opportunity with expert design, planning, and execution.
Here’s what we provide:
Customized site planning to ensure your lot can comfortably accommodate two ADUs,
Code-compliant design that meets state and local requirements—ready for ministerial approval,
Complete project management from feasibility to move-in, including budgeting, permitting, and construction,
Designs that balance privacy, beauty, and livability—for both tenants and homeowners.
We make it simple to build more, build smart, and build confidently.
Want to Add Two ADUs to Your Property? Let’s Make It Happen.
Schedule your free consultation today and learn how AB 956—and New Avenue’s proven ADU process—can help you create more housing, more income, and more options on your own lot.