ADUs Become a Lifeline for Those Displaced by L.A. Wildfires
A Solution to the Housing Crisis
For years, Los Angeles has been building up its accessory dwelling unit (or ADU) housing stock, and now these small homes are proving to be more than just a solution to the housing crisis. ADUs are unexpectedly becoming a lifeline, housing people displaced by the recent L.A. wildfires.
A Shift in Purpose
As California continues to change its laws to make ADUs easier to permit, thousands of homeowners have added them to their backyards (and, in some cases, their frontyards). Initially designed to fast-track new housing, ADUs have been added by homeowners for various purposes such as having extra monthly income, housing children and parents, or having a backyard office. In the wake of the devastating January wildfires in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, ADUs may have taken on a new importance as temporary housing for Los Angeles residents who are homeless.
Community Support
This shift in use would underscore the power of community support. Have you opened your ADU to someone who the fires displaced? We want to hear from you and share your stories as recovery efforts take shape.
ADUs in Action
For years, Los Angeles has been building up its accessory dwelling unit (or ADU) housing stock, and now these small homes are proving to be more than just a solution to the housing crisis. ADUs are unexpectedly becoming a lifeline, housing people displaced by the recent L.A. wildfires.
As California continues to change its laws to make ADUs easier to permit, thousands of homeowners have added them to their backyards (and, in some cases, their frontyards). Initially designed to fast-track new housing, ADUs have been added by homeowners for various purposes such as having extra monthly income, housing children and parents or having a backyard office.
In the wake of the devastating January wildfires in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, ADUs may have taken on a new importance as temporary housing for Los Angeles residents who are homeless.
This shift in use would underscore the power of community support. Have you opened your ADU to someone who the fires displaced? We want to hear from you and share your stories as recovery efforts take shape.
Conclusion
As the city of Los Angeles continues to rebuild and recover from the devastating wildfires, the role of ADUs as temporary housing for displaced residents is becoming more apparent. The power of community support is evident in the willingness of homeowners to open their doors to those in need, and it is a testament to the resilience of the city and its residents.
FAQs
* What is an ADU? An ADU is a small home that is attached to a single-family home, also known as a primary residence.
* How do ADUs work? ADUs are designed to be self-contained units with their own kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
* Who can build an ADU? Homeowners can build an ADU on their property, subject to local zoning laws and regulations.
* How many ADUs are there in Los Angeles? According to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, there are over 10,000 ADUs in the city.
