San Francisco’s Accessory Dwelling Unit Program

As a legislative and policy planner at San Francisco Planning from 2014–2018, I reviewed, analyzed, and coauthored more than six pieces of legislation and helped launch and establish the City’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) program. My work included:

• Building partnerships with elected officials, permitting agencies, legal counsel, tenant and property owner advocates, architects, and general contractors to resolve implementation problems and reduce barriers.

• Analyzing policy impacts and presenting findings at commission and elected official hearings, carrying legislation through adoption.

• Promoting the program preparing an ADU handbook with a consultant, and helping property owners understand the program.

• Sharing San Francisco’s experience with state policymakers and housing advocacy organizations to support ADU programs beyond the City.

The ADU and Unit Legalization Program received the APA’s 2018 National Planning Achievement Award for a Best Practice, Silver. With subsequent local and state reforms, San Francisco completed or legalized approximately 1,400 ADUs by 2026

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