(September 8, 2023) Phoenix City Council voted 8-1 this week to allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in their backyards — but with the stipulation that these backyard casitas not be used as short-term rentals in the building code amendment.
ADUs are similar to a guesthouse, but the big difference is that these newly approved ADUs can have full kitchens and be livable full-time. The city's planning and zoning department had already recommended approval of zoning changes to facilitate more housing options in the backyards of existing single-family homes, and the city's planning commission approved the text amendment on Sept. 3.
Tucson has permitted ADUs in residential zoning since in January 7, 2022. According to Tucson's Planning and Development, there have been 77 applications for ADUs since then. Of the 77 applications, 37 have been approved/issued/completed. Others are still in review. Additionally, some may have expired or been withdrawn since applying.
According to the Arizona Department of Housing, proponents of ADUs say they would help add more residential units at a time when Arizona is short 270,000 housing units.
The one dissenting Phoenix Council vote was due to concerns about the ability to enforce the rules of keeping short-term rentals out of ADUs.
A local industry supporting infill housing is materializing as a result. Businesses such as Urban Infill Project (UIP) specialize in bringing ADUs to backyards in Tucson and are gearing up to build 1,000 of these tiny houses next year. Valerie Lane and Lisa Bowers established The Urban Infill Project 2023 in response to the need for supplementary housing solutions in Tucson and Southern Arizona.
"Constructing this many homes will not only contribute to the solution of rampant housing shortage but also has the potential to create wealth opportunities for many people," said Valerie Lane a co-founder of Urban Infill Project. "Success as a community means we succeed as a collective of individuals - and collaboration is at the heart of a healthy construction industry."
At the core of UIP's mission lies an unwavering dedication to enhancing the fabric of community life in all its aspects. By reimagining urban spaces through the lenses of multigenerational living, community housing, and cluster development, UIP aims to strengthen the social bonds that connect Tucson's diverse populations. The embrace of a community-minded approach to housing in general and the creation of new housing propels Tucson forward into a more cohesive and harmonious future.
The Urban Infill Project includes a Pre-Permitted Plan Library & Resource Center that embodies a commitment to efficiency and excellence. By furnishing a repository of pre-approved model plans, UIP accelerates projects and simplifies the complexities of the permitting process. In an industry where time is of the essence, UIP's streamlined route to building permits for infill housing underscores its dedication to advancing the sector now while also bolstering community progress.
UIP harnesses a network of support that connects potential investors, infill developers, architects, local trades, builders, local municipalities, and homeowners. Amid the significant complexities of addressing the housing shortage, UIP has established a fast track to obtaining building permits. UIP’s vision is embedded in the ability to empower people to build wealth using their creative vision.
As the City of Tucson evolves, UIP is pioneering a new era centered around Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and small-scale housing solutions, facilitating growth and construction. Valerie is a Registered Architect with over 16 years of experience in the industry, and Lisa has over 20 years of experience in navigating building codes, ordinances, and design requirements through various consulting positions.