FAQ: What Can I Do With My Land? (R1, R2, RA Zones – Placer County)

What can I build on R1 land?

R1 (Single-Family Residential) allows one home per lot. You can also add an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and a JADU (Junior ADU).

• ADU allowed: Yes
• JADU allowed: Yes, only if owner-occupied
• SB 9 lot split: Yes, if you live on one lot for 3 years and meet all requirements
• Setbacks: Front 20 ft / Side 5 ft / Rear 10 ft
• Chickens or livestock: Not allowed in unincorporated county
• Manufactured home on foundation: Yes, if built to code

What can I build on R2 land?

R2 (Two-Family Residential) allows a duplex or two units on one lot. You can also add an ADU and a JADU.

• ADU allowed: Yes
• JADU allowed: Yes, only if owner-occupied
• SB 9 lot split: Yes, with 3-year residency requirement
• Setbacks: Front 20 ft / Side 5 ft / Rear 10 ft
• Chickens or livestock: Not allowed in unincorporated county
• Manufactured home on foundation: Yes

What can I build on RA land?

RA (Residential Agriculture) allows a home, an ADU, and animals like chickens, goats, or horses.

• ADU allowed: Yes
• JADU allowed: Yes, only if owner-occupied
• SB 9 lot split: Sometimes – parcel must be in an urbanized area and meet requirements
• Setbacks: Front 50 ft / Side 30 ft / Rear 30 ft
• Chickens and livestock: Yes
• Chicken coop setbacks: 50 ft from neighbor homes
• Barn/stable setbacks: 100 ft from neighbor homes
• Manufactured home on foundation: Yes

What is SB 9 and how does it apply to my land?

SB 9 is a California law that lets qualifying homeowners split their lot and build a second home. To qualify, you must live on the property for 3 years, and your parcel must meet zoning, access, and safety standards.

What’s the difference between an ADU and a JADU?

An ADU is a separate full unit with its own kitchen and entrance. A JADU is a smaller unit located within the main home (like a converted bedroom or garage) and requires the owner to live on site.

Can I have chickens on my land?

In unincorporated Placer County:

• R1 and R2: Chickens are not allowed
• RA: Chickens are allowed with setbacks

Note: If your property is inside a city (like Lincoln), your local rules may be more permissive. For example, in the City of Lincoln, R1 properties may keep hens if enclosures are at least 15 feet from all property lines.