How variations in design, site selection and regulations affect ADU programs

Abstract

This thesis builds on the work of existing literature about subsidizedaccessory dwelling unit (ADU) programs. Using data recently collected from subsidized ADU programs around the country, this thesis presents an evaluation of how those programs are going, what has worked, what hasn’t worked and why. This thesis also evaluates legislation that has been enacted in recent months and years and the impact that legislation has had on the success of both subsidized ADU programs and private, market rate ADUs. Although practical implications are described at length, this is not intended to be a manual for cities that intend to launch subsidized ADU programs. No two cities are exactly alike, and there’s not likely one solution that will work for every one. Rather, this thesis aims to illuminate challenges that homeowners and cities have had so that planners can formulate their own subsidized ADU programs and ADU regulatory reform armed with lessons learned in the last few months and years.