City Planning to hold Workshops on new Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance

In response to the provisions of AB 1866, which mandates ministerial processes (i.e. without discretionary review or hearing) for Accessory Dwelling Units in single family zones, the Department of City Planning is holding workshops to gather input on a proposed code amendment necessary to bring the City in full compliance with AB 1866.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (aka granny flat, secondary dwelling unit, English basement), is an apartment that can be located within the walls of a home, as an addition to a home, or as a free-standing structure on the same lot.

While AB 1866 mandates that the City allow Accessory Dwelling Units in eligible single family zones the City is allowed to impose certain standards on those units; including size, height setbacks, parking, etc. So, community input is absolutely critical.

Implemented correctly, Accessory Dwelling Units can help promote sustainable infill development, expand housing opportunities and housing affordability, and concentrate development in a manner which preserves the character of existing neighborhoods. Additionally, implementation of an Accessory Dwelling Units ordinance and new standards would likely reduce the number of illegal housing units that have proliferated across LA in recent years.

The first workshop will be held next Saturday, October 3rd, from 11AM - 3PM, at the Yucca Community Center (6671 Yucca Street).

For more information, and information about future workshops, please contact Gabriela Juárez, from the Department of City Planning, at (213) 978-1337 or by email at gabriela.juarez@lacity.org