The Great California ADU Boom: From Shady She-Sheds to Housing Hope (and a Few Permitting Nightmares)
Ah, California. Land of sunshine, surf, and... a serious housing shortage. Enter the ADU, the Accessory Dwelling Unit, also known as the granny flat, in-law suite, or, as some creatively challenged neighbors might call it, the "she-shed." But these little guys are punching above their weight in the fight for affordable housing.
So, how many ADUs are we talking about?
Buckle up, because this is where things get interesting. We don't have a definitive number of built ADUs, but we do have some wild permit numbers. Since California started streamlining the ADU permitting process in 2016, over 80,000 permits have been issued. That's a whole lotta backyard cottages and converted garages!
But wait, there's more! Some estimates suggest there were already a ton of unpermitted ADUs out there before the gold rush began. Los Angeles alone might have had 50,000 hiding in plain sight back in 2014!
The ADU Rollercoaster: From Permit Purgatory to Housing Hero
Let's be honest, the permitting process for an ADU can feel like navigating a bureaucratic maze blindfolded. There have been tales of endless paperwork, disgruntled neighbors, and enough red tape to mummify a Pharaoh. But hey, if you manage to tame the permitting beast, you've got yourself a sweet little housing unit that can help ease the rent burden or provide a cozy spot for grandma (or, you know, a killer yoga studio).
ADUs: Not a Silver Bullet, But a Pretty Sweet Arrow in the Housing Quiver
Don't get us wrong, ADUs aren't going to solve California's housing crisis single-handedly. But they're a positive step in the right direction. They create more housing options, potentially bring in some extra rental income, and can even add value to your property. Plus, they're a heck of a lot cuter than a high-rise condo building.
So, there you have it, folks. The ADU saga: a story of permitting woes, creative backyard solutions, and a glimmer of hope in the California housing market. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a sudden urge to browse Pinterest for ADU design inspiration... and maybe a good lawyer on retainer.
