San Jose Mercury News – City extends ‘granny unit’ program for residents building in back yards
Homeowners looking to build in-law or “granny” units in their back yards will have more opportunities, as the city council has decided to extend a pilot program that allows secondary units to be built.

The city will accept applications for backyard units until April 30 or until 100 have been filed. About 73 units have been requested so far. City building officials are preparing a report on the granny-unit program due in March or April so the council can craft a permanent law.

Councilwoman Nora Campos pushed the city’s director of planning and building for a full report.

“This is something that we need to get our arms around,” Campos told the council. “I still am hopeful that we’ll have a positive outcome on this.”

Rules on granny units have divided neighbors in the past few years, especially in Willow Glen, where most of the applications have been filed.

Some residents say the buildings invite parking problems on smaller, older streets, while others say they should have the right to improve their property. On streets where granny units have been built, some neighbors say they have not noticed much change.

Joe Horwedel, the city’s director of planning, building and code enforcement, said many secondary units have been used as clubhouses or bedrooms for children, rather than for relatives or renters.

Thanks to Burbed Reader Mike for this find.

This is fantastic! Everyone in America dreams of being a homeowner – and now you can reach that dream, and the dream of being a landlord in San Jose!

Not only that, but when you convert your backyard into a condocomplex for your inlaws, you reduce the need to water the lawn! Very Green, Very Progressive, Very Silicon Valley.

So go! Right now! Go buy a house in San Jose before the secret is out! Once every one knows you can build a house in your backyard and get rental income, house prices will double because of the amazing affordability.

Talk about game changing!