Virginia SB 531: the homeowner's guide to the 2027 ADU law.
On July 1, 2027, Virginia becomes one of the most homeowner-friendly ADU states in America. Here's exactly what changes, why it matters, and how to be ready to build the week the law takes effect.
Virginia SB 531, effective July 1, 2027, requires every locality in the Commonwealth to permit at least one accessory dwelling unit by-right on any single-family lot. Permit fees for a qualifying ADU are capped at $500, setbacks may not exceed those of the primary home, and there is no requirement that the occupant be a family member.
What SB 531 actually does
By-right on single-family lots
Localities may no longer require a special-use permit for one ADU on a single-family lot. If your lot allows a house, it allows an ADU.
$500 permit-fee cap
Local jurisdictions cannot charge more than $500 in permit fees for a qualifying ADU.
Setbacks no stricter than the primary home
The ADU must meet the same setback rules as the main house — no additional buffer.
Family-relation requirement removed
You are not required to house a family member. You can rent to any tenant of your choosing (subject to local short-term-rental rules).
One ADU per lot
SB 531 guarantees the right to one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot.
Localities keep design and code control
Building code, size, height and reasonable design standards remain in local hands. That's why every project starts with a Readiness Assessment.
Why the timing matters
Every Virginia locality will receive a wave of ADU applications the week of July 1, 2027. Homeowners with completed design, engineering and permit-ready plans in hand will be first in the queue. Homeowners starting from scratch in July 2027 are likely 8–14 months from breaking ground.
What SB 531 does not change
- • Building code, life-safety and inspections remain under local jurisdiction.
- • Short-term rental rules (Airbnb, VRBO) are still governed locally and by HOAs.
- • Utility upgrades — water, sewer or septic capacity — are still the owner's responsibility.
- • Private HOA covenants can restrict ADUs regardless of state law.
Frequently asked
When exactly does SB 531 take effect?+
SB 531 takes effect July 1, 2027. Applications filed before that date fall under existing local ADU rules.
Who sponsored SB 531?+
Sen. Kannan Srinivasan (D-Loudoun) and Sen. Saddam Salim (D-Fairfax). The bill was signed into law in April 2026.
Does SB 531 override HOA restrictions?+
No. Private covenants and HOA rules are separate from local zoning. Review your HOA documents before starting.
Are there size or height limits?+
Yes — set by each locality. Most Virginia jurisdictions publish ADU size caps between 800 and 1,200 sq ft. See our County Rules page.
Do I need a licensed builder?+
For anything beyond simple work you'll need a Virginia Class A licensed contractor. We hold VA Class A License #2705195817.
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