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County of Sonoma

Requirements to Move into Rebuilt Homes

Published: September 13, 2019

The County is working to help fire survivors move back into their homes. In some cases, people may be able to obtain a temporary occupancy permit, allowing them to move into their home before the building permit is finaled.

In order to qualify for a temporary occupancy permit, the building inspector will require that specific work be completed. Where applicable, the following list includes, but is not limited to, the work required to be completed or installed prior to approving temporary occupancy.

  • Final gas test
  • All smoke detectors
  • Heating and ventilation
  • Labeled electrical panels
  • One bathroom, minimum
  • All handrails and guardrails
  • All required lighting fixtures
  • Kitchen with hot and cold running water
  • All exiting paths, such as stairs, landings and ramps
  • Covered plates and wire nuts at all incomplete fixture boxes
  • All doors not required for exiting that lead to incomplete decks or platforms shall be mechanically secured or become a code compliant opening other than a door
  • Other items as required

More About Temporary Occupancy Procedures