California YIMBY Statement on Legislative Passage of AB 3057

Making it Faster, Cheaper, Easier to build “Junior” Accessory Dwelling Units

“Adding these small homes to existing homes is a huge win for multi-generational living”

Today the California State Legislature approved AB 3057 by a 37-0 vote, a bill authored by Asm. Lori Wilson (Solano) and sponsored by California YIMBY that will make it faster, cheaper, and easier to build junior accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within existing homes. The bill will now go to the Governor’s desk for signature into law.

“The surge in construction of new accessory dwelling units (ADUs) is one of the brightest spots in California housing policy — it’s helping thousands of California families find housing they can afford,” said Brian Hanlon, CEO of California YIMBY.  “AB 3057 will strengthen our existing incentives for ADUs by making it faster, cheaper, and easier for homeowners to add ‘junior’ ADUs, allowing families to stay closer together while reducing their housing costs. 

“AB 3057 represents a small but significant technical change that offers Californians unique options to build housing solutions that are affordable and efficient. By simplifying the process for constructing junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs), this bill empowers families to create additional living spaces within their homes, helping to alleviate our state’s housing shortage. This legislation not only supports the construction of affordable housing but also fosters stronger, closer-knit communities. I am grateful for the partnership with California YIMBY and their unwavering commitment to making California an affordable place for all,” said Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-11).

AB 3057 is a technical fix to existing law that will grant local, “Junior ADU” ordinances the same exemption to environmental review that is already granted to standard ADU ordinances. Recent state legislation has allowed ADU construction to grow substantially over the last several years, resulting in thousands of new, affordable rental homes across California. However, a gap in current law denies Junior ADU ordinances this exemption.

“California YIMBY applauds the strong, pro-housing leadership of bill author Asm. Lori Wilson, and we look forward to working with Asm. Wilson to make California affordable for everyone,” said Hanlon.

About California YIMBY

California YIMBY is a community of neighbors who welcome more neighbors. We believe that an equitable California begins with abundant, secure, affordable housing. We focus on housing and land use policy at the state and local level to ensure grassroots organizers and city leaders have the tools they need to accelerate home building. Learn more: https://cayimby.org/