Brentwood Council introduces ordinance to update ADU and JADU rules to match state law

Brentwood City Council on Feb. 24 introduced an ordinance to align the city’s accessory dwelling unit rules with recent state legislation. The measure, RZ‑25‑004, would amend Brentwood Municipal Code section 17.715 to reflect changes in SB 543 and AB 1154.

Associate Planner Sarah Euler told the council the state law shortens the city’s review timeline for a completeness determination to 15 days and creates an appeal process for incomplete submissions. The laws clarify that allowable ADU square footage is measured by interior livable space and limit local discretion over utility connection requirements, impact fees and capacity charges for junior ADUs (JADUs). AB 1154, effective Jan. 1, 2026, also narrowed owner‑occupancy rules for JADUs to situations where sanitation is shared and prohibited rentals of JADUs for fewer than 30 days.

Council members questioned staff about practical details including parking and HOA limits. Staff said ADUs generally require one parking space that can be accommodated in a driveway; state‑exempt ADUs under 800 square feet may not be subject to local design standard requirements, and HOAs cannot enforce rules that conflict with state ADU law. Staff recommended adoption so the city remains in compliance with state planning law.

After a brief public comment period with no speakers on the item, a councilmember moved to waive first reading and introduce the ordinance; another councilmember seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

The ordinance was introduced; a subsequent meeting will be needed to adopt it formally and to publish the ordinance title and next steps.