Q: Can an RV unit be parked on property and used as a recording studio or storage space without being a dwelling in Sonoma?
We have two RVs on our property in Sonoma County and wish to have one for rent or registered as a caretaker unit and the second as a recording studio/private writing den and storage space. Is that allowed, would both still be considered a dwelling, would the second one have to be unplugged and disconnected from all power (already it has no water or sewer hookups because it is not used as a full living space and the kitchen inside does not even function)?
A:
In Sonoma County, the use of RVs on your property has specific regulations. Using an RV as a recording studio or storage space without using it as a dwelling might be permissible, but there are certain conditions you need to meet. Generally, for an RV not to be considered a dwelling, it must not be used for living purposes, which includes sleeping, cooking, or bathing.
Since your second RV is intended for use as a recording studio and storage space without water or sewer hookups, and without a functioning kitchen, it might be classified differently than a dwelling. However, you should check with the Sonoma County Permit and Resource Management Department (PRMD) to confirm that your intended use aligns with local zoning and land use regulations. Ensuring the RV is not connected to utilities designed for habitation, such as power, water, and sewer, could further clarify its use as non-dwelling.
For renting out an RV or using it as a caretaker unit, you must comply with local zoning laws and permit requirements. This often involves obtaining the appropriate permits and ensuring the RV meets the standards for temporary occupancy. Consulting the PRMD will provide you with detailed guidance on the steps needed to comply with local regulations and avoid potential issues.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
