SB 1069 Summary

• Replaces terminology of "second unit" with "accessory dwelling unit" (ADU) throughout California's Planning and Zoning Law and establishes ADUs as an essential component of California's housing supply.

• Requires local agencies to adopt ordinances governing ADU creation in single-family and multifamily residential zones, specifying permitted locations, design standards, parking requirements, and density limits.

• Mandates ministerial (non-discretionary) approval for building permits to create one ADU per single-family lot when the unit is contained within existing space of a residence or accessory structure, with independent exterior access and sufficient fire safety setbacks.

• Prohibits local agencies from imposing parking standards for ADUs in five specified circumstances: within one-half mile of public transit, in historic districts, as part of existing primary residence or accessory structures, when on-street permits are unavailable, or when car-share vehicles are nearby.

• Prohibits local agencies from requiring new or separate utility connections and associated fees or capacity charges for ADUs contained within existing structures, though such requirements may be imposed for other ADU types with charges proportionate to the unit's burden on utilities.