The rules for Accessory Dwelling Units in Santa Cruz county may be changing this year. The state has told counties that the rules for building a-d-u’s have to get easier, and less expensive; and Santa Cruz county supervisors have voted 5-0 to have the Planning Commission review the applicable county ordinances. The Planning Commission has been told to come back with recommendations for the february 7th meeting. The Coastal Commission would then review the proposed changes at their meeting in march.
In urban areas of the county, A.D.U.s can be at most 640 square feet. In in rural areas, they can be 1,200 square feet.
The Santa Cruz county planning director plans to create a legalization program for ADUs that have been built without permits, charging impact fees based on the date of construction….not current rates.
