Census to Probe Backyard Tiny Homes in 2030 Prep Test
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The Census Bureau is testing a new way to find and count smaller homes called Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) for the 2030 Census. About 750 people will be asked quick questions to help improve address lists and make sure everyone is counted. This test starts soon and helps the Census plan better without costing much time or money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Selected Households Must Participate Briefly
The Census will contact up to 750 selected individuals or households (about 575 near Suitland, Maryland and 175 near Jeffersonville, Indiana) within a 25-mile radius of those facilities. Participation is mandatory and will take at most 5 minutes to hear the purpose, read a Confidentiality Notice, and answer questions.
Responses Protected Under Title 13
Information collected from respondents in the ADU locate test will be kept confidential under Title 13 U.S.C. Census staff will present a Confidentiality Notice when contacting respondents.
Test Aims to Improve Counting of ADUs
The 2026 Locate Address Test for Accessory Dwelling Units is designed to assess getting ADU addresses via local government partnerships and to identify challenges in locating ADUs during in-field enumeration so the Census can refine Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) and In-Field Enumeration (IFE) strategies for the 2030 Census.
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Key Dates
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