When zoning changes for ADUs were first proposed in Salt Lake City to ease the housing shortage several years ago, the main issue was parking. That was before Airbnbs started popping up around the country eating up affordable housing in many towns and cities.
A friend who recently purchased a condo was surprised to discover most other condo units in his complex are illegal Airbnbs; he has no permanent neighbors. No enforcement by the city.
Airbnbs are illegal in Salt Lake City but the city claims it is understaffed to enforce. Before the city proceeds with allowing ADUs, it needs to have a department fully staffed and in place to enforce its own laws and regulations. ADUs becoming Airbnbs is not the answer to affordable housing.
Karol Conrad, Salt Lake City
Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible