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San Francisco, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Rental Restrictions (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
Planning Code § 207.2(g)
Renting allowed
yes, under Rent Ordinance
Separate sale/condo
prohibited by default
Exception
Gov. Code § 66341 or § 207.4

Summary

San Francisco ADUs and JADUs built under Planning Code § 207.2 may be rented under the Rent Ordinance, but the lot generally cannot be subdivided to sell the unit separately.

An ADU or JADU constructed pursuant to this Section 207.2 may be rented and is subject to all applicable provisions of the Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Ordinance (Chapter 37 of the Administrative Code). Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 9 of the Subdivision Code, a lot with an ADU or JADU authorized under this Section 207.2 shall not be subdivided in a manner that would allow for the ADU or JADU to be sold or separately financed pursuant to any condominium plan, housing cooperative, or similar form of separate ownership...

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Under Planning Code § 207.2(g), an ADU or JADU built through the state-mandated program may be rented and falls under the Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Ordinance, Administrative Code Chapter 37, like any other rental unit. Despite Subdivision Code Article 9, the lot cannot be subdivided to sell or separately finance the ADU or JADU through a condominium plan, housing cooperative, or similar ownership form, except where the unit meets California Government Code § 66341 or Planning Code § 207.4 and Subdivision Code § 1316.

Violations & Fines

A subdivision map application that would allow separate sale or financing of an ADU or JADU outside the § 66341 or § 207.4 exceptions is not eligible for approval under § 207.2(g).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my San Francisco ADU separately from the main house?
Generally no. Planning Code § 207.2(g) bars subdividing the lot to sell or finance the ADU as a condo, except under narrow state-law exceptions.
Is renting out an SF ADU subject to rent control?
Yes. Section 207.2(g) makes ADUs and JADUs subject to the Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Ordinance like other rental units.

Sources & Official References

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