Citrus Heights reports record-number of secondary dwelling permits in 2023

Sentinel staff report–
More housing is coming to Citrus Heights, as the city on Thursday reported issuing double the average number of permits for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in 2023.

According to a Feb. 1 update on the city’s website, the city said a total of 28 permits for ADU’s were issued last year, up from an average of 14 permits issued after 2017. Prior to 2017, the city said it averaged just one permit per year being issued.

ADUs, often referred to as granny flats, offer homeowners the opportunity to add a secondary housing unit to their property through either an attached or detached unit, or a garage or basement conversion. The rise in permits underscores the growing trend of utilizing ADUs for family member accommodation, or as a source of rental income.

The increase is partially attributed to the relaxation of state and local regulations in 2017, aimed at alleviating the housing crisis. Additionally, the City’s Permit-Ready Accessory Dwelling Unit Program, launched in the summer of 2021, and has significantly contributed to the trend, according to the city.

The program offers Citrus Heights residents free, pre-approved ADU plans, which can reportedly save homeowners over $7,000 in planning fees.

Additional information is available at citrusheights.net/aducentral.