Riverside describes two state-law routes for certain unpermitted residential units, with different date tests. The City applies SB 1226 to qualifying existing homes, duplexes and ADUs constructed without a building permit before September 30, 2018. Its AB 2533 route concerns unpermitted ADUs and JADUs constructed before January 1, 2020. The dates are not interchangeable, and the City must determine which route and standards apply to a property.

Identify the route and assemble date evidence

For the AB 2533 ADU/JADU route, Riverside asks applicants to identify the permit as a legalization application and provide evidence that construction occurred before January 1, 2020. The City lists examples such as county assessor records, utility bills, aerial photographs and dated, unaltered photos. Staff review evidence and determine whether the date is established. New additions, remodeling and alterations to unpermitted work must follow the current governing codes and other rules described by the City.

Riverside says a homeowner may obtain an optional confidential inspection from a licensed contractor or design professional before applying. This private review can help identify conditions and possible improvements, but it is not a City inspection, does not start the City’s enforcement process, and does not approve the work. For the permit application, the City lists site and floor plans and date documentation. An inspection then checks for substandard conditions under the cited state housing law. The City must determine which corrections and reviews are necessary.

Complete the permit and inspection process

The City says applicable fees are based on its current schedule, with limits on certain impact and connection charges for qualifying projects. These limits are subject to the stated size and service conditions; they are not a general fee waiver. The project is closed only after identified substandard conditions are corrected. If the unit does not meet a program’s eligibility or date test, the City describes a permit route under current code instead.

Riverside’s Safety-First Amnesty Program page explains the local distinction between SB 1226 and AB 2533. Confirm the current application, fees, accepted evidence, applicable date, inspection scope and final permit status with Building & Safety. A prior occupancy, utility record or private inspection does not establish legal status by itself.