Universal Design Ordinance
In an effort to encourage accessible housing to accommodate people with disabilities and older adult populations, City Council adopted the Universal Design Ordinance on February 16, 2010. Amendments to the ordinance were adopted on July 29, 2025.
This ordinance requires single family home builders to provide universal design features as an option available to buyers. Developments of 15 units or more are required to offer basic universal design features to make homes more accessible.
Universal design features – such as grab bars, no step entries, and wider doorways – are required to be offered in at least one model in each development phase. This allows people to live in their home regardless of their disability. Other features offered to buyers will include: Accessible bedroom, bathroom and kitchens; and general amenities like lever door handles and rocker light switches.
Interested in learning more about the City’s Universal Design Ordinance?
Join Our Free Webinar on Universal Design and Accessible Housing!
Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 5-6 p.m.
Creating Homes for Every Stage of Life: Sacramento Universal Design, HomeFit, and Home Repair Resources
The City of Sacramento, AARP California, and Rebuilding Together Sacramento are partnering to help Sacramento area residents learn about practical ways to create homes that are safer, more accessible, and easier to live in for people of all ages and abilities. Whether you're purchasing a new home, planning for the future, or looking to make improvements to your current home, this webinar will introduce resources that can support independent living and aging in place. Participants will learn about Sacramento's Universal Design Ordinance, discover how AARP helps residents plan for livable homes and connect with future HomeFit workshops, and hear about home repair and accessibility assistance available through Rebuilding Together Sacramento.
Attendees will learn about:
- Universal design features available in qualifying new homes under Sacramento's Universal Design Ordinance.
- How AARP supports livable communities and where to access future HomeFit workshops and resources.
- Home repair and accessibility assistance programs offered by Rebuilding Together Sacramento, including who is eligible and how to apply.
Join Our Free Webinar on Universal Design and Accessible Housing! Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 5-6 p.m. Register here!
For any questions please contact:
Greta Soos, Senior Planner
Community Development Department
(916)808-2027
gsoos@cityofsacramento.org