| Table of Content |
| 1. What Is an ADU in Santa Rosa? |
1.1 Types of ADUs Found in Santa Rosa |
| 2. Santa Rosa ADU Rental Prices |
| 3. Where to Find Santa Rosa ADUs for Rent |
| 4. Renting Out an ADU in Santa Rosa – Legal Info for Landlords |
| 5. Best Neighborhoods to Rent or Lease an ADU in Santa Rosa |
| 6. ADU Laws and Zoning in Santa Rosa |
| 7. FAQ |
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a growing solution to California’s housing crisis — and Santa Rosa is no exception. With increased demand for affordable, private rentals and California laws making ADUs easier to build and rent, more homeowners in Santa Rosa, CA are adding in-law units, granny flats, and backyard cottages to their properties.
Whether you're looking to rent an ADU in Santa Rosa or are a homeowner planning to lease one, this detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know in 2025.
What Is an ADU in Santa Rosa?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a self-contained residential unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, living space, and entrance — located on the same property as a primary residence.
Types of ADUs Found in Santa Rosa:
Detached ADUs – Free-standing, usually in backyards
Attached ADUs – Connected to the main home
Garage Conversions – Converted garage spaces
Basement/Interior Conversions
Junior ADUs (JADUs) – Smaller, often within the main house, up to 500 sq ft
Santa Rosa ADU Rental Prices in 2025
Rental rates depend on size, location, condition, and amenities.
| ADU Type | Monthly Rent Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Studio ADU | $1,300–$1,900 | Ideal for singles, students |
| 1-Bedroom ADU | $1,900–$2,700 | Most common rental type |
| 2-Bedroom ADU | $2,700–$3,600 | Great for couples or small families |
Where to Find Santa Rosa ADUs for Rent
Finding ADUs can be tricky since they’re often listed as private rentals. Here are the best platforms to check:
Craigslist (Santa Rosa housing section)
Zillow, Trulia & HotPads
Facebook Marketplace & Groups
Nextdoor
Local property management firms
Sonoma State University housing board (for student-targeted listings)
Renting Out an ADU in Santa Rosa – Legal Info for Landlords
Thinking of renting your ADU? You must comply with city regulations to avoid fines or legal disputes.
✅ Requirements:
Permitted Unit – Your ADU must be officially permitted by the Santa Rosa Planning & Economic Development Department.
Minimum Rental Term – ADUs cannot be used for short-term rentals (less than 30 days).
Owner Occupancy – As of 2025, owner occupancy is no longer required for ADUs (SB 9 and AB 1033 influence this).
Utilities – You can decide whether to have separate meters or bundle utilities into rent.
Insurance – Update your homeowner's policy or get landlord coverage.
💡 Pro Tip for Landlords: Use a rental agreement with clauses that clearly define utility payments, noise restrictions, and parking use.
Best Neighborhoods to Rent or Lease an ADU in Santa Rosa
West End – Walkable, artsy, and close to downtown
Rincon Valley – Great schools and family-friendly
Oakmont – Ideal for seniors or retirees
Fountaingrove – Upscale ADUs with modern designs
Southwest Santa Rosa – More affordable with larger lots for ADUs
ADU Laws and Zoning in Santa Rosa (2025 Update)
The City of Santa Rosa aligns with California ADU law but has its own specific rules:
Zoning Rules:
Most residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, etc.) allow ADUs.
Setbacks: Typically 4 feet from rear and side property lines.
Max Size: Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are allowed.
Height Limit: Detached ADUs usually limited to 16–18 feet.
