Accessory dwelling units: owner occupancy.
AB 2071 significantly modifies the legal framework concerning local authorities' roles in oversight and approval of accessory dwelling units. It asserts that local agencies must ministerially approve construction permits for at least one ADU in single-family zones without excessive regulatory delays. Additionally, it clarifies owner occupancy criteria, allowing trusts benefiting a person with disabilities to comply with regulations without strict interpretation, thereby encouraging ADU development for accessible housing solutions.
Assembly Bill No. 2071, introduced by Assembly Member Bloom, aims to amend the Government Code concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and related owner-occupancy requirements. The bill stipulates that the City of Los Angeles will not be held liable for injuries resulting from utility failures related to ADUs, provided these units are documented prior to January 1, 2018. By delineating these liabilities, the bill seeks to mitigate concerns from property owners looking to convert existing structures into ADUs, thus supporting housing development in urban areas.
The reception of AB 2071 within the legislative discussions appears largely positive, especially among lawmakers prioritizing housing expansion in urban settings like Los Angeles. Proponents argue that it will facilitate increased housing availability and enhance compliance with existing building codes. However, some skeptics highlight potential overreach in affording the City wide immunity from liabilities, raising concerns about accountability for infrastructure failures linked to ADUs.
Despite the general support for increasing housing density through ADUs, there are points of contention regarding the balance of local control versus state-imposed regulations. Critics argue that the bill may dilute local governments' authority to regulate housing appropriately based on community-specific needs. The underpinning tension revolves around questions of infrastructure preparedness, such as the impact on existing water and electrical systems while maintaining safety and community standards.