Hayward describes a local amnesty process for unpermitted accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) built or converted before January 1, 2020. The route is limited to residentially zoned parcels, and the City checks the submitted evidence and the unit’s condition. California’s AB 2533 framework does not itself establish that a particular Hayward unit qualifies or has passed inspection.
Establish the date and unit conditions
Hayward asks applicants to provide documentation that supports construction or conversion before the cutoff. Its examples include prior City records, assessor information, real-estate transfer disclosures, escrow documents identifying the unit, and a letter from a licensed professional. The City reviews whether the evidence is sufficient. For a JADU, Hayward also requires owner occupancy in the main home or JADU and a deed restriction filed with the Alameda County Assessor. Confirm the current form and exact owner-occupancy conditions with the City before applying.
A City inspector or a licensed contractor may conduct the code inspection described by the program. If the inspection identifies fire, life-safety or Housing Code violations, those conditions must be corrected. Work that requires a permit must go through the applicable permit and inspection process. A third-party inspection report can support the application, but it is not a City approval or a substitute for required permits.
Understand what the Certificate of Compliance does
The City says it issues a Certificate of Compliance after it recognizes the unpermitted unit as legalized through the amnesty program. Hayward describes the certificate as protection from code-enforcement proceedings for the previously unpermitted unit, provided no additional unpermitted work is performed. It can be revoked if required violations are left unaddressed. This local certificate should not be treated as proof that later alterations are approved or that all zoning, building, fire, rental or private-property questions are resolved.
Hayward lists a flat amnesty permit fee of $570, plus applicable administrative and state fees; fees and application details can change. Check the City’s current AB 2533 program page for the current packet, inspection checklist and permit requirements. For an individual unit, compare the City’s final certificate and permit file with the work that exists today.