Orinda Couple Test ADU Regulations with Inflatable Bouncy Castle
In Orinda, California, a unique property dispute has emerged surrounding the Tey family's creative yet controversial use of an inflatable bouncy castle as a potential rental unit. The Tey family, residing at 25 Quail Crossing Lane, finds itself at the center of neighborhood discord following their decision to list a large Disney princess-themed bouncy castle as a rentable accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for up to six months.
The bouncy castle, a vibrant fixture in the Tey's backyard since a birthday party half a year ago, was inadvertently left behind by a rental company that subsequently went out of business. Faced with the dilemma of what to do with the giant inflatable, Michael Tey and his wife saw an opportunity. "We thought, why not turn this eyesore into something useful?" explained Michael. "It's a fun, unconventional living space that could really help someone out, like a student or a young couple, as long as they don't have pets that might damage the material."
ADUs, or accessory dwelling units, are small structures on the same grounds as a primary residence. They are often used to provide additional income through rentals or to house relatives who are too annoying to have in the main residence. However, Orinda's community and regulatory standards for ADUs typically involve more permanent structures with standard amenities.
The proposal to classify a bouncy castle as an ADU has sparked a lively debate among neighbors and local zoning officials. While some community members view the idea as innovative and a clever use of unused space, others have voiced concerns about safety, aesthetics, and property values. "It's a bouncy castle, not a home. What happens when it deflates overnight?" questioned neighbor Patricia Holmes, drawing attention to safety and practicality concerns.
The local zoning board has yet to decide on the matter, with considerations revolving around the unconventional nature of using a temporary inflatable structure as a living space. "We have regulations that need to be followed, and this doesn't exactly fit the mold of what an ADU was intended to be," stated a board member during a recent hearing.
As the Teys await a ruling, the question remains whether their inflatable bouncy castle can bounce from party attraction to a novel housing solution. The outcome may set a precedent for acceptable and legal housing in the increasingly creative and crowded California housing market.
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