@Michael Baum I would agree that a work around can at times be illegal and if thats the case it confirms my suspicion of how i've seen other ADU's operating on airbnb. Was hoping to find maybe for instance there are ways to operate in a grey area that isn't overtly illegal, for example keeping the ADU on wheels allowing it to be considered an RV. Not sure if this would be allowed either but just as an example.
I called over to the county and wasn't given a clear answer. It seems ADU's in a traditional sense are not allowed (IE. grandma can't live in my backyard, nor can a renter), however you're allowed to build an office out back (so long as you're not operating a business out of it) or a "she shed" to hang out in. Im wondering if at that point, if I listed it on airbnb would there be a direct violation. They didn't have a clear response to this. Also, not sure if platforms like airbnb or vrbo would allow it to be used if it weren't already permitted with the county as an "ADU", in other words "can I put them in my shed, so long as it has a bed?". Still digging.
I dont think regulations have caught up to these trends and definitions are out of date. The last thing I want to do is disregard or violate directly any laws; however, I also don't want to handcuff myself for laws that have yet to be clearly defined either.
@John Underwood fully agreed. I would prefer to setup systems and investments that won't be wiped out in the future nor get me into any trouble. Like you, my long term vision is to acquire vacation sites i'm also interested in for personal use. The desire to put something in my backyard is more of a short term strategy to get me started (a house hack if you will). Once Im more liquid, I will certainly be following your path.
@Ross Gortney good to know. I could see how you might be hesitant to apply for the permit on the off chance you might be denied. For now it seems to be working for you. I agree, putting money into it without a fair degree of certainty that it's allowed would be too risky.
