Fee Waiver Options
Through December 31, 2024, the County is offering the following fee waivers for the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs):
- Up to $1,500 for eligible JADUs (no income restriction)
- Up to $2,500 for eligible ADUs (no income restriction)
- Up to $5,000 for eligible ADUs restricted for a household earning a moderate-income (81-120% of the Area Median Income)
- Up to $10,000 for eligible ADUs restricted for a household earning a low-income (below 80% of the Area Median Income)
To qualify for the waiver, you will need to affirm that the ADU/JADU will not be used as a short-term rental.
To receive the $5,000 or $10,000 waiver, you will need to place a deed-restriction on the property confirming the unit will be rented to a household at the income level specified. You can find the income levels below.
Process and Application
The fee waiver is structured as a reimbursement. You will first need to consult with the Planning Division to determine all the fees and permits needed for the project.
To apply for either the $5,000 or $10,000 waiver, complete our online application after consulting with the Planning Division and Building & Safety Division. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
The general fee waivers ($1,500 and $2,500) are processed directly by Staff. You do not need to submit a separate application.
Eligible Fees
The fee waiver can be applied to County fees assessed by the Community Development Agency, including the Planning and Building & Safety Divisions, as well some fees assessed by the Department of Public Works, such as Roadway Impact fees.
Income and Rent Limitations for Restricted ADUs
The Area Median Income (AMI) is calculated regionally, and households are considered “low-income” or “moderate-income” in relation to these numbers. The AMI establishes income and rent limits for these categories by household and unit size. The most recently available thresholds are:
Low-Income Maximum Thresholds (up to 80% AMI)
Studio:
- Annual Gross Income: $98,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $2,540
One Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $112,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $2,800
Two Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $126,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $3,150
Three Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $140,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $3,500
The Area Median Income (AMI) is calculated regionally, and households are considered “low-income” or “moderate-income” in relation to these numbers. The AMI establishes income and rent limits for these categories by household and unit size. The most recently available thresholds are:
Moderate-Income Maximum Thresholds (up to 120% AMI)
Studio:
- Annual Gross Income: $147,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $3,675
One Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $168,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $4,200
Two Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $189,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $4,725
Three Bedroom:
- Annual Gross Income: $210,000
- Allowable Monthly Rent: $5,250