In Hollywood, some apartment tenants are losing their parking spaces as landlords convert them into accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Residents on Mariposa Avenue, including Luis, a disabled Navy veteran, have been affected by this change. Luis, who has lived in his apartment for 15 years, now parks two and a half blocks away, making it difficult for him to navigate in the heat. Another resident, Elizabeth Rios, mentioned that many people struggle to find parking, often having to park several blocks away, even late at night.
The conversion of parking spaces into ADUs is legal under a new law, Assembly Bill 1211, which allows property owners to convert garages, carports, or covered parking structures into ADUs without providing replacement parking. This law was enacted to address the severe housing shortage in California. According to Fox LA, Joel Rodstein, a property management representative, stated that they are complying with all requirements and have received approval from the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) and the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
While the law aims to create more housing, it has sparked protests among tenants who are losing their parking spots. Some residents argue that the conversions are more about profit than providing affordable housing. Despite the challenges, the city has approved rent concessions of $200 per month for tenants losing parking.
NBC Los Angeles reported that the landlords on Mariposa Avenue have not responded to inquiries. However, the city continues to monitor the situation to ensure compliance with building codes and standards.