Loans To Build ADU Housing: Napa County Info Session

NAPA VALLEY, CA — A new Napa County program is putting real money behind a push to grow affordable housing, offering homeowners up to $105,000 in forgivable loans to build accessory dwelling units if they agree to rent them to income-qualified tenants.

The Affordable Accessory Dwelling Unit program is open to eligible homeowners in Napa County, including American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, Yountville, and unincorporated areas.

Officials say the loans, which range from $60,000 to $105,000 depending on unit size and project conditions, can be fully forgiven over five years if program requirements are met.

County housing officials say the initiative is designed to tackle housing shortages by turning backyard development into long-term affordable rentals while giving property owners financial and technical help to navigate the building process.

“This program is a practical way for homeowners to be part of the solution to Napa County’s housing challenges,” said Jennifer Palmer, Napa County’s housing and community services director.

An information session scheduled April 30 at Napa City Hall will walk homeowners through loan terms, tenant income requirements, development steps and support available through the Napa Sonoma ADU Center and county planning staff. Live Spanish translation will be provided.

Officials say the program targets both homeowners still exploring whether to build and those ready to move forward, framing ADUs as both a housing strategy and an investment opportunity.