The two-story, 1200-square-foot ADU under construction on Calle de Rosas was approved and permitted by the City of San Diego.
SAN DIEGO — Homeowners in Rancho Peñasquitos are reeling over a two-story accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, going up in their neighborhood. They told CBS 8 it’s blocking their views of the San Diego skyline.
“It’s huge, it just does not fit the character of the neighborhood,” said Casey Wahlstrom, one of the neighbors frustrated by the ADU towering over her backyard.
“It’s going to be even higher than what you see, they don’t even have the roof on yet,” said Wahlstrom.
She and her husband bought their home in Rancho Peñasquitos 17 years ago and they just recently renovated their backyard. They told CBS 8 the two-story 1200 square-foot ADU, which is the maximum allowable size under city guidelines, is ruining the view for them and their neighbors.
“I mean, this is not a granny flat. They could’ve built a 600-square foot, half the size,” said Wahlstrom. “But to build something that is so large and obstructing, you know. Our neighbors here had a lovely view of Black Mountain, and that view will be completely gone.”
The ADU under construction on Calle de Rosas was approved and permitted by the City of San Diego. It fits within the 30-foot height limit and 4-foot setback requirements.
CBS 8 knocked on their door to get their side of the story, but no one answered.
“We know that demand for ADU’s is quite high right now. You see students looking for ADU’s for the school year, and you see seniors looking to downsize from larger single-family homes into ADU’s. They’re just another piece of what we need to give people choices,” said Wesley Morgan, who’s been involved in the housing debate by attending city council meetings and advocating for more housing options to be built in San Diego.
“For many, it’s the only way to access the region’s best parks, best schools, best libraries and other community resources,” said Morgan. “We’re not taking away from anybody else. This is a tool that allows for more affordable entry points.”
Morgan pointed to Assembly Bill 1033, which has been signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and will take effect January 1, 2024, that would allow homeowners to sell ADU’s separately from the primary residence.
Meanwhile, Wahlstrom and her husband just want their unobstructed view back, which was one of the main reasons they bought their home.
“We’re not here to dictate what people can do on their property, but we would hope that neighbors would consider other people,” said Wahlstrom. “It’s very distressing for us. It’s been difficult.”
The rules and permitting requirements for ADU’s are available on the City’s Development Services website.
WATCH RELATED: New state law allows homeowners to sell their ADU similar to a condominium