A Completed ADU Sparks Ongoing Neighbor Conflict

A Growing Dispute Over Backyard Apartments in Crown Point

A long-standing conflict over a backyard apartment in Crown Point has taken a dramatic turn, with increased tension between neighbors and law enforcement involvement. The situation highlights the complexities of zoning laws and the challenges faced by homeowners in coastal communities.

The dispute centers around an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), also known as a backyard apartment, which has become a focal point for community disagreements. These units are often built on property lines, leading to conflicts over privacy, sunlight, and the overall character of neighborhoods.

Heidi Martin and her family have been unable to complete the final wall of their new ADU due to a disagreement with their neighbor, Marc Umemoto. Umemoto has refused to allow them to use his yard to finish the painting, citing concerns about how the ADU affects his property. He claims that the structure blocks sunlight and breezes, altering the ambiance of his home just a few blocks from Mission Bay.

Martin, on the other hand, argues that she is simply trying to complete a project that adheres to the existing zoning rules. She emphasizes that her family is not an investor looking to build multiple ADUs but rather a homeowner following the regulations in place at the time of construction.

The situation escalated when Martin's contractor attempted to paint the final wall using a long pole with a roller. During this effort, the painter lost balance and stepped onto Umemoto’s property. Umemoto called the police, accusing the contractor of trespassing. However, the officers who arrived did not issue any citations or make arrests.

This pattern repeated itself later in the day, with Umemoto calling the police again. Despite the repeated incidents, no legal action was taken. Umemoto expressed frustration with the police department’s approach, noting that they require direct observation of trespassing before taking action. He also mentioned that he had installed cameras and posted “no trespassing” signs, which he feels are ineffective.

For Martin, the situation represents an unfortunate chapter in what she sees as a mischaracterization of her as a neighborhood enemy. She insists that her family is not involved in large-scale ADU developments and that they are simply trying to complete a single unit.

The controversy has also brought attention to the city’s zoning policies. In April 2022, the City Council passed a rule prohibiting backyard apartments from being built on property lines. However, this rule required approval from the California Coastal Commission, which wasn’t finalized until September of the previous year. As a result, many ADUs were constructed on property lines during the interim period.

Martin’s legal team has made several offers to Umemoto to gain permission to use his yard for a short period to complete the painting. Umemoto acknowledges these offers but says they were complicated by legal paperwork and his dissatisfaction with the reasoning behind them.

While Umemoto considers legal action to address the ongoing issue, Martin remains hopeful that the matter will be resolved soon. She notes that the painters were advised to prioritize safety and avoid focusing too much on avoiding Umemoto’s property, which could lead to injuries.

The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by homeowners dealing with complex zoning laws and the potential for disputes in tight-knit communities. As the debate continues, both sides remain committed to their positions, highlighting the need for clear communication and understanding in such situations.