I have a second kitchen in my home, but my mother-in-law (or other family member) lives in that space and we do not charge rent. Do I still need an ADU permit?

Yes, probably. Your family can live with you whether or not you charge them rent; however, second kitchens in single-family dwellings must remain compliant with the ordinance requirements for second kitchens under which they were established, including requirements that prohibit restricting access between the second kitchen and the remainder of the single-family dwelling. If the second kitchen has been physically separated from the remainder of the home by a locking door or other means, then a second dwelling unit has been created and an ADU permit will be required, or compliance with the requirements for second kitchens in single-family dwellings must be restored.

Show All Answers

1. What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
2. Why did the City modify the regulations concerning ADUs and why do they now require a permit?
3. Did the City adopt a grace period to bring properties into compliance?
4. Where can I find the application form for an ADU Permit?
5. Where can I build an ADU?
6. What are some of the standards that have to be met for a D-ADU?
7. What are some of the standards that have to be met for an I-ADU?
8. When I bought my home, the real estate agent told me the mother-in-law apartment was legal. Why do I now need an ADU permit?
9. I have a second kitchen in my home, but my mother-in-law (or other family member) lives in that space and we do not charge rent. Do I still need an ADU permit?
10. Will I be required to evict tenants or sell the property in an investment property where the main home and D-ADU are rented to different tenants?
11. What will happen if an ADU is not legal, and is not permitted to be legalized?
12. What if I am about to rent (or I am currently renting) an ADU unit and I am concerned that the unit might not be legal? Could I get evicted even if I signed a lease?