Conversion of an Existing Single Family Dwelling to a Second Unit,
in Connection with a New Single Family Dwelling

In recent years, it has become more common for property owners with relatively large parcels to construct new homes and convert their existing home to a second unit. County requirements for converting an existing home to a second unit are given below:

Requirements

The following is required before the department will accept a building permit for the new home or conversion of the existing structure to a second unit.

1. The property must meet the basic requirements of the county's Second Units
2. A special inspection is required to verify that the existing structure conforms to the presently adopted building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical, and energy codes. The applicant may request a waiver of specific code requirements based on practical difficulties (Santa Cruz County Code 12.10.420) however, the structure must, at a minimum, conform to current seismic standards.

The "practical difficulties" criterion may be considered as met when the cost of modifications to the structure to meet current codes (NOT including the cost to meet current seismic standards or to correct immediate hazards to health and safety) exceeds 20% of the value of the existing structure. The value is calculated using the building permit valuation for a new structure of the same size. The Department may require and evaluate a contractor's bid for the proposed work.

If a waiver is granted, the work to be done shall be generally prioritized as follows: