A homeless man in South Los Angeles has gone viral after building an elaborate three-story treehouse — only to have it dismantled by authorities.

Witnesses say the man began the project modestly, starting with a ladder before adding a tarp and expanding the structure into what became a full-fledged multi-level shelter. The unique build quickly drew attention on social media, with videos showing its surprising size and detail.

City officials, however, deemed the treehouse unsafe and in violation of local regulations. Crews arrived to dismantle the structure, citing safety concerns for both the builder and the public.

The incident has reignited debate over homelessness in Los Angeles, with some praising the man’s ingenuity and others pointing to the lack of long-term housing solutions in the city.