Letter: While balancing growth and preservation, Provo City Council must allow ADUs to be part of the housing solution

Provo is at a crossroads. The City Council is considering a proposal to eliminate the ability to rent accessory dwelling units (ADUs), a move that contradicts both evidence-based solutions to our housing crisis and the council’s own goal to “increase homeowner occupancy to 50% by 2029 through a balanced mix of home types across the city.”

ADUs — commonly known as basement apartments, in-law suites, or backyard cottages — have long been a part of Provo’s housing fabric. They serve as flexible housing options for young families, college students, retirees, and others who might otherwise be priced out of our growing city. Moreover, they enable homeowners to offset mortgage costs, stay in their homes longer, and contribute to the city’s homeowner occupancy rates.

The data supporting ADUs is clear. Research shows that ADUs increase housing supply without significant strain on infrastructure. In Provo, where rental prices are climbing, these units provide much-needed affordability. Cities across the U.S. — from Portland to Minneapolis — have embraced ADUs as a tool to address housing shortages, reduce sprawl, and create walkable, livable neighborhoods.

Provo’s housing challenges demand innovative solutions, not bans. Restricting ADUs will only exacerbate our affordability crisis and force more people to leave the city in search of housing. It may even discourage prospective homeowners who value the flexibility and income potential that ADUs provide.

Instead of banning ADUs, Provo should focus on enforcing existing regulations to ensure these units are safe and well-managed. For example, the city could strengthen owner-occupancy requirements, improve building code enforcement, or introduce incentives for ADU development that aligns with neighborhood goals.

Provo can be a leader in showing how thoughtful zoning policies and community-driven solutions can balance growth and preservation. But this starts with recognizing that ADUs are not the problem — they’re part of the solution.

I urge Provo’s City Council to reconsider this proposal and instead focus on policies that expand housing options, keep Provo affordable, and support residents in achieving homeownership. Let’s move forward, not backward.

Ashley Lundquist, Provo

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