California has passed several laws related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in recent years. These laws are designed to encourage the construction of ADUs and make it easier for homeowners to build and rent them out.
One of the most significant laws passed in California related to ADUs is Senate Bill 1069, which went into effect on January 1, 2020. This law makes it easier for homeowners to build ADUs by streamlining the permitting process and eliminating certain fees and parking requirements. It also allows homeowners to rent out their ADUs on a short-term basis, such as through vacation rental platforms like Airbnb.
Another important law related to ADUs in California is Assembly Bill 2299, which went into effect on January 1, 2022. This law requires cities and counties to allow ADUs on all single-family lots, regardless of zoning, as long as the ADU meets certain size and design standards. It also prohibits cities and counties from imposing fees or other barriers that would make it difficult for homeowners to build ADUs.
Other laws related to ADUs in California include Senate Bill 13, which allows homeowners to build ADUs on properties with existing second units (such as a guest house or granny flat) that have been legally occupied since January 1, 2020, and Assembly Bill 587, which requires cities and counties to provide clear and consistent information to homeowners about the process for building ADUs.
Overall, these laws are intended to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to build and rent out ADUs in California, with the goal of increasing the supply of affordable housing in the state.
If you are interested in advocating for new legislation related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs), there are several steps you can take to get involved:
Research existing laws and regulations: It's important to understand the current legal landscape before advocating for change. Research existing laws and regulations related to ADUs in your state or locality to identify areas where you feel improvements could be made.
Identify a specific issue or problem: Once you have a good understanding of the existing laws and regulations related to ADUs, you can identify a specific issue or problem that you would like to address through legislation. This might be a barrier to building ADUs, such as a lack of clear guidelines or excessive fees, or it could be a way to encourage more ADUs, such as by offering incentives to homeowners who build them.
Connect with others who share your concerns: You are more likely to be successful in advocating for new legislation if you are part of a larger group of people who share your concerns. Look for local organizations or advocacy groups that are working on issues related to ADUs, and consider joining forces with them.
Contact your elected representatives: Once you have a clear idea of the issue you want to address and have connected with others who share your concerns, it's time to reach out to your elected representatives. You can contact them through their websites, by phone, or by writing a letter or email. Be sure to clearly state your concerns and explain why you believe new legislation is needed.
Get involved in the legislative process: If you want to be more actively involved in the legislative process, you can also consider becoming a lobbyist or volunteering with a political campaign. This can give you more direct access to lawmakers and help you build relationships with them.
Remember, advocating for new legislation can be a slow and difficult process. It may take time and persistence to see results, but by getting involved and working with others, you can help to shape the laws and policies related to ADUs in your community.