NEW ADU UPDATES: Palmdale & Lancaster Homeowners, This Matters for You
🚨 NEW ADU UPDATES: Palmdale & Lancaster Homeowners, This Matters for You
California just passed several new laws that expand and simplify Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — and if you own property in Palmdale or Lancaster, this could mean more equity, more income, and faster approvals.
What Changed?
Governor Newsom signed four bills that adjust permitting, fees, parking requirements, and rental rules. These directly affect how ADUs are built and valued across the Antelope Valley.
🔹 Key Bills (Simplified)
| Bill | What It Changes | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| AB 462 | Removes Coastal Development Permit requirements in certain emergency zones. | Some parts of LA County previously slowed by environmental review now move faster. |
| AB 1154 | No parking required for ADUs under 500 sq ft. Updates JADU rules (long-term rental only). | Big deal for Palmdale & Lancaster lots where parking is tight. |
| SB 9 (recap) | Allows two units + potential lot split on most single-family lots. | Creates opportunities for multi-unit cash flow properties. |
| SB 543 | Clarifies square footage definitions & fee exemptions for ADUs ≤ 750 sq ft. | Small ADUs may avoid thousands in city fees. |
Source:
California Housing Legislation Overview
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/policy-research/laws-and-regulations/accessory-dwelling-units
🏡 Why This Is Especially Big in Palmdale & Lancaster
Unlike Los Angeles, our area has:
-
Larger lot sizes
-
More backyard space
-
Fewer build constraints
This means adding an ADU is easier and often cheaper here than in surrounding LA County.
💰 ADU Grants and Funding You Should Know About
| Program | Benefit | Where to Apply / Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| CalHFA ADU Grant Program (state) | Up to $40,000 for ADU pre-construction costs (plans, permits, soil reports, etc.) | https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/adu/ |
| LA County ADU Pilot Program | Helps eligible households finance ADU construction. | https://wdacs.lacounty.gov/programs/adu/ |
| Utility Rebate Programs (SCE / SoCal Gas) | Efficiency rebates for HVAC, insulation, water heaters, etc. | https://www.sce.com |
Important: These programs often reopen in funding rounds. If you want to use grant money, start your eligibility screening early.
For Sellers
A home with:
✔ an existing ADU
✔ OR space that is clearly ADU-ready
…can now sell at a premium, especially with SB 9 flexibility and reduced fees.
For Buyers & Investors
When evaluating a property, ask:
-
Can an ADU fit within the lot setbacks?
-
Is an ADU under 500 sq ft to avoid parking requirements?
-
Is the planned size ≤ 750 sq ft to minimize city impact fees?
This can dramatically reduce build cost.
For Agents & Appraisers
Start documenting:
-
ADU permit history
-
ADU living space verification (particularly for JADUs)
-
Impact of recent law changes on local comps
ADU comps in Palmdale & Lancaster are growing fast — this is a new valuation segment.
Bottom Line
California is making ADUs easier, cheaper, and faster to build — and Palmdale & Lancaster homeowners are positioned to benefit more than most because of lot sizes and affordability.
ADUs are no longer “just backyard units.”
They’re income-producing, value-boosting property upgrades.
Call for your own consulation 6612215011- Armand Martin
Categories
Recent Posts
GET MORE INFORMATION
