December 21, 2016 -- Santa Monica is closer to easing rules for “granny flats,” or second smaller units that homeowners historically built on their property for housing family members but are now viewed as a way to address the affordable housing crunch.

Despite such concerns as the impact on parking, the City’s Planning Commission has tentatively supported modifying local zoning to match a new statewide law that relaxes restrictions on constructing an “accessory dwelling unit” (ADU) in the backyard or in garages on the property of Santa Monica’s single-family homes.

The final decision must still be made by the City Council. 

Read More:  http://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2016/December-2016/12_21_2016_Relaxed_Law_on_Granny_Flats_in_Santa_Monica_Moves_Closer_to_Approval.html