When we relocated to San Diego nearly 17 years ago, most home garage renovations were illegal—meaning they had been done without proper permits, if any. The stated interior size revealed all: A 600-square-foot cottage would be obviously larger, because of the undocumented, unsanctioned expansion.
Oh, and the buyer inherited any liability. Imagine one consequence, where the city, county, or state issued fines or demanded the whole, ah, illegal project be torn out. For the short time my wife and I considered buying a home here, we stayed clear of such properties.
They’re stigmas no more. Garage conversions are suddenly commonplace in my neighborhood of University Heights—and the surprise is in which structures. Backtrack a half decade: The city removed the parking space requirement for new apartment and condo buildings located in proximity to public transportation (e.g, the bus, and stops are everywhere). There are reasons why San Diego is No. 1 among U.S. cities for worst parking availability.
Well. Well. Apparently, existing apartments or condos also are no longer required to offer parking for all residents, if any. Landlords love the opportunity, which some are quick to grab. They’re tearing out garages and replacing them with studio apartments; some are tiny beyond meaningful measure.
The Featured Image and companion show one project in progress at an apartment building. Three garages have been gutted, and they will be replaced with residences. That fact is confirmed, but not how many or the size of the units.
Imagine one day being told by the landlord that your coveted garage is being taken away and that you should be grateful for not being served a massive rent increase instead. Oh, lucky you.
Is this whole thing an unintended consequence, or do San Diego bureaucrats really want to cause more parking congestion? Because it’s stupidly naive to presume someone will abandon his or her car for the privilege of taking a long bus ride when short drive is so much more convenient and sensible.
Both photos come from Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra on Sept. 4, 2024. Vitals: f/2.2, ISO 50, 1/1600 sec, 13mm (film equivalent); 6:12 p.m. PDT. The other: f/1.7, ISO 50, 1/200 sec, 23mm (film equivalent); 6:12 p.m.