San Diego ADU Program Changes: A Good Move?

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San diego Adjusts ADU Program Amid Community Concerns: A Balanced Approach?

San Diego has recently revised its policies regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as backyard apartments, responding to considerable public feedback. The city’s initial ADU program, intended to boost housing availability, faced criticism for allegedly overlooking infrastructure demands and neighborhood character.

the revised ADU program aims to strike a better equilibrium. These adjustments have ignited a debate: Did San Diego make the right call in scaling back its ADU program?

New ADU Regulations in San diego

The updated regulations include several key changes impacting ADU construction:

• Infrastructure Fees: Developers are now required to pay infrastructure fees.
• Parking Mandates: ADUs not located near public transit must include designated parking spots.
• Increased Setbacks: ADUs must be built farther from property lines.

Furthermore, the number of ADUs allowed per lot is now capped based on lot size:

Lot Size (Square Feet)	Maximum number of ADUs
Less than 8,000	4
8,001 to 10,000	5
10,001 and Larger	6

Expert Opinions on the ADU Changes

Here’s what economists and executives are saying about San Diego’s ADU program adjustments:

Economists Weigh In

• David Ely (San Diego state University): Believes the changes move the city toward a better balance between housing creation and community tolerance, though less restrictive caps would have been preferable.
• Ray Major (Economist): Argues that the original ADU program was “disastrous” due to infrastructure strains and neighborhood disruption, making the moderation a win for the region.
• Kelly Cunningham (San Diego Institute for Economic Research): Emphasizes that compromise is crucial for ADUs to balance housing needs with privacy, accessibility, and neighborhood character.
• Alan Gin (University Of San Diego): States that while the initial policy boosted housing, abuses of the program and infrastructure strains necessitated the new plan.
• James Hamilton (UC San Diego): Supports the changes, highlighting the importance of community consent and planning growth that benefits everyone.
• Norm Miller (University Of San Diego): Concedes his initial concerns were unfounded, finding the modifications reasonable, especially regarding lot size scaling and parking.

Executives Share Their Views

• Phil Blair (Manpower): Expresses concerns over ADU loopholes and the lack of parking provisions in the initial program,supporting the scaling back.
• Gary London (London Moeder Advisors): Suggests that the ADU issue is overblown, advocating for eliminating minimum lot sizes and focusing on high-density family housing.
• Chris van Gorder (Scripps Health): Applauds the City Council for addressing concerns about density, privacy, and traffic, noting the need for multiple solutions to the housing crisis.
• Jamie Moraga (Franklin Revere): Highlights the negative effects of the initial program on quality of life and neighborhood character,emphasizing the need for effective community planning.
• Bob Rauch (R.A. Rauch & Associates): Disagrees with the rollback, suggesting that closing a loophole would have sufficed and that the changes could worsen the housing shortage.

The Evolving Role of ADUs in Urban Planning

Accessory Dwelling Units play a significant role in addressing housing shortages and promoting diverse housing options within existing neighborhoods. As cities grapple with affordability crises, ADUs offer a flexible solution, allowing homeowners to create rental income, house family members, or downsize while remaining in their communities.

Pro Tip: Before building an ADU, research local zoning regulations and building codes thoroughly to ensure compliance. Consider consulting with an experienced architect or contractor to navigate the permitting process.

However, the integration of ADUs is not without challenges. Concerns about increased density, strains on infrastructure, and changes to neighborhood character frequently enough arise, as seen in the San Diego case. Effective urban planning requires balancing the benefits of ADUs with the needs and concerns of existing residents.

Did You Know? Some cities offer financial incentives, such as grants or tax breaks, to encourage ADU construction. Check with your local government to see if any programs are available in your area.

The san Diego adjustments reflect a broader trend of cities refining their ADU policies to address these challenges. By incorporating infrastructure considerations, parking requirements, and community input, cities can harness the potential of ADUs while mitigating potential negative impacts.

Frequently Asked questions About ADUs