Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become one of California's most popular housing solutions. State laws have significantly streamlined the ADU approval process, but the intersection of ADU regulations and coastal zone requirements creates unique challenges.
While state law generally limits local agencies' ability to restrict ADU construction, the Coastal Act creates an additional layer of review for properties within the coastal zone. The key question is whether your ADU project is exempt from coastal permit requirements or requires a full CDP.
Some local jurisdictions have created categorical exclusions or exemptions for ADUs that meet certain criteria. However, these exemptions vary widely by city and county, and many coastal zone ADUs still require some form of coastal review.
Factors that typically influence whether a coastal permit is needed include: the size and location of the proposed ADU, whether the property contains sensitive resources, the project's visual impact, and whether the property is in an area of original Coastal Commission jurisdiction.