Accessory Dwelling Unit Amnesty Program (AB2533)
ADU Amnesty Program (AB2533)
What is the Amnesty ADU Program?
The Amnesty ADU Program provides a pathway for homeowners to legalize unpermitted Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU), ensuring they meet the current building codes and safety standards.
This program, launched as part of California’s efforts to address the housing shortages, offers a temporary window for homeowners to bring their unpermitted ADUs into compliance without facing code enforcement penalties and fines.
By participating in the Amnesty ADU Program, homeowners can ensure their properties are safe, legal, and compliant with current regulations, and enhancing the livability and value of their homes.
The first step in the amnesty process is to understand the application requirements and being able to prepare the necessary documentation. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1) Initial Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of your ADU. Identify all areas that might not meet the current building codes and or safety standards. This assessment will help you to understand what work is needed to comply with the building codes and safety standards. It may be beneficial to hire a licensed contractor to inspect the ADU. The County has an AB 2533 Substandard Housing Checklist to be used to confirm that the unpermitted dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit is in compliance with California State Health and Safety Code (HSC) Section 17920.3.
2) Gather Documentation: Put together all relevant documents, including proof of the ADUs construction date, previous building permits, and any plans. Documentation is needed to prove when the ADU was constructed before January 1, 2020, which is the cut-off date for the amnesty program.
ADU Amnesty Program Application
Once all of your documents are in order, you can start the application process for the ADU Amnesty Program.
1) Submit the Application: Visit the Del Norte County Community Development or their website to obtain the ADU Amnesty Program Application. Include detailed information about your ADU, including size, layout, and its existing condition. Then submit application.
2) Application Review: The Building Department will review what was submitted to make sure all required information has been received. Additional documentation or clarification may be necessary.
ADU Legalization Process in California
After your application is approved, the next steps involve bringing your ADU up to code and ensuring it meets all legal requirements:
1) Schedule Inspections: Schedule a building inspection to assess the current state of your ADU. The inspectors will identify any areas that need modification or improvement to comply with the health, safety, and building codes.
2) Obtain Permits: Apply for any necessary permits for the work that needs to be done.
3) Make the Necessary Modifications: Based on the inspection report, make the required upgrades or modifications to your ADU. The work might include and is not limited to electrical, plumbing, mechanical, structural repairs or fire safety improvements. Hiring a licensed contractor can ensure that all work is performed to meet code requirements.
4) Final Inspection: Once all modifications are complete, schedule a final inspection with the Building Inspection Division. The inspector will verify that all work has been completed according to the health, safety, and building codes.
5) Certificate of Compliance: The Building Division will issue a Certificate of Compliance upon completion of the final inspection. The Certificate of Compliance will recognize the unpermitted united a legalized unit under the ADU Amnesty Program.
The Certificate of Compliance provides assurance to the property owner that code enforcement proceedings on the previously unpermitted unit will not be triggered provided that no additional unpermitted work is performed on the unit. Any future fire and life safety violations left unaddressed may result in the revocation of the Certificate of Compliance.
