ADU Rescue

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. It includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same property as the single-family or multi-family dwelling is or will be situated.

ADU Rescue is a program that allows qualifying ADU owners to ask for an enforcement postponement of up to five (5) years. Read the full 7-0-21 program policy.

How do I qualify for the Enforcement Extension? Your ADU was created before October 14, 2021 and you have to pass a habitability inspection from a licensed professional.

For more information about the program policy and how to apply for an enforcement extension, contact Code Enforcement via email at PRMD-Enforcement@sonoma-county.org or by phone at (707) 565-1992.

What Does “Substandard” Mean in Relation to ADUs?

Any housing condition that is defined by California State Health and Safety Code 17920.3, which exists to an extent that it endangers the life, limb, property, safety or welfare of the public or occupants.

Is Your ADU Habitable?

To qualify for a five (5) year enforcement extension for your ADU, you will need to pass a habitability inspection conducted by a person licensed by the California Contractors State License Board or a licensed design professional like an architect or engineer.

This inspection must contain, at minimum, a review of the structure for compliance with housing standards pursuant to the California Health and Safety Code.

“Why Should I Legalize My Unit?”

• Reduce the risks to the occupants. ADUs that are unpermitted may unknowingly present serious health and safety risks to the occupants.
• Reduce liability. An illegal ADU would pose as a significant liability to the owner. For example, insurance would not cover damages if a fire started in the unit.
• Increase your property value. Improve the potential for both the rental income and/or resale value by legalizing the ADU.
• For your peace of mind. Legalizing your ADU can eliminate any worries about code enforcement actions against you.