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Long Beach Backyard ADU Program Accepting Applications
By Staff Writer
Published on Mon, Nov 9, 2026
Applications are open for the City of Long Beach’s Backyard Builder loan program, which provides up to $250,000 in financing to lower-income homeowners to design and build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on their property.
The program is expected to finance the construction of at least 16 ADUs, up from 10 in the first round of Backyard Builders funding that launched in fall 2024. These 30-year loans are offered with a below-market interest rate of 2%, and payments will be deferred for the life of the loan. Most borrowers will not have to make any payments until the 30-year term is over or until the property is sold or transferred to another owner.
The Round 2 application period runs from Nov. 1 to 30 and applicants will be selected through a randomized lottery.
To be eligible, applicants must own and occupy a single-family home in the designated program area and meet the State of California’s definition of lower-income. For 2026, the maximum annual gross household income limits are:
- 1 person: $93,300
- 2 people: $106,600
- 3 people: $119,950
- 4 people: $133,250
- 5 people: $143,900
- 6 people: $154,600
- 7 people: $165,250
Other eligibility factors include applicants’ debt, payment of mortgage and property tax, and maintenance of a homeowners insurance policy. Funded ADUs must be less than 500 square feet, single-story and at ground level. Full program requirements, guidelines and loan details will be available on the program webpage.
Two upcoming community information sessions will offer community members more information about household income limits and other program criteria:
- Nov. 5: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. online via Zoom (RSVP for link to virtual meeting)
- Nov. 14: 10 to 11 a.m. at Cesar Chavez Park Community Room, 401 Golden Ave. (RSVP)
This new round of funding comes from a $4.8 million award from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) through its CalHome Program.
Homeowners who have already begun the ADU design/construction process may apply for the program at any point prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. The City, however, will not reimburse homeowners for costs incurred before the Backyard Builders loan is executed.
This program is part of the City’s larger plan to increase affordable housing options. For more information on the second round of Backyard Builders funding, visit longbeach.gov/aduloan.
