Contra Costa will offer incentives to encourage proper permits for accessory dwellings

Property owners in Contra Costa County who have constructed accessory dwellings, or in-law units, without the proper permits will soon have an opportunity to legalize those homes with some of the fees and fines waived, under a new incentive program.

“Our department has seen a substantial increase in the number of permit applications for ADUs in recent years following statewide legislation that streamlined the permitting process,” said Jason Crapo with the county Department of Conservation and Development. “However,” Crapo said, “We believe there are many more existing, unpermitted ADUs out there and we would like owners of these units to obtain permits to ensure they meet safety standards for occupancy.”