LOS ANGELES (CNS) — Los Angeles City Councilman Kevin de León Thursday announced the city’s first-ever, pre-approved, free Accessory Dwelling Unit Standard Plan, aimed at expanding housing opportunities.

What You Need To Know

  • De León leveraged discretionary funds to spearhead the development of the free ADU Standard Plan

  • The plan intends to cut red tape to constructing ADUs and streamlines the approval process by two to four months

  • The ADU Standard Plan will provide homeowners with an opportunity to save between $20,000 and $30,000 in architectural and design costs

  • Angelenos will be able to build ADUs on their properties faster, contributing to the city’s housing

De León leveraged discretionary funds to spearhead the development of the free ADU Standard Plan, which is intended to cut red tape to constructing ADUs and streamlines the approval process by two to four months.

“The struggle to find and maintain affordable housing in Los Angeles is no secret,” de León said in a statement. “The city’s high cost of living, coupled with a rising demand for housing, has placed an enormous burden on residents.”

“As the homeless capital of the nation, Los Angeles is acutely aware of the pressing need to take bold action and create diverse housing options.”

The ADU Standard Plan will provide homeowners with an opportunity to save between $20,000 and $30,000 in architectural and design costs. By eliminating these expenses, residents can allocate their resources toward other needs while constructing an ADU, according to de León’s office.

Angelenos will be able to build ADUs on their properties faster, contributing to the city’s housing.

With more than 200,000 single-family parcels in the city eligible to utilize the plan, the potential for thousands of new dwelling units will become a reality, according to de León’s office.

The councilman during a press conference Thursday morning recognized the work and collaboration of the Dept. of Building and Safety, LA’s Bureau of Engineering, Lehrer Architects and Kadre Architects for bringing the ADU Standard Plan to fruition.

He also acknowledged the city still needs policy reforms and further streamlining efforts to build various housing types — from ADUs to apartment complexes.

Information on the plan and how to apply for an ADU can be found on de León’s website.