I’ll also call code enforcement and check the county records just to see when things like roof/hvac have been done/permitted. 

The permits and architecture was done prior to start.).For most people the finances are the limitation to scale.  

Also know that building a home seldom goes as expected - I have relatives that just built a nicer house… they thought it would take 9 months… it literally took 18-24 months between delays in permitting and the builder just not being able to get it done in a timely manner - often due to sub-contractor issues.  

Legal Implications & Ramifications : As an example; the iconic PCH homes in Malibu and many in the upper foothills might not permitted to build back, certainly not to the same extent or materials.

Our office signed the contract and they got the permit and replaced the drain field.

Zoning Districts That Allow ADUsADUs are permitted in residential zoning districts and some mixed-use districts.

Tahoe isn't ideal right now as the local community is vehemently anti-Airbnb and the permitting system is challenging to navigate.

You also mentioned meters, do you have to separate meters, get approval from the city and pull permits?

How unique can you get a permit?

Had an issue with trying to self-permit a build a few years back that was an HPR but had an "A" and "B" designation.