I know what `/usr/local` is for - installing software for the local machine. By default, `root` owns the directory. This means that to install there, you need to use `sudo`. For a single-user or developer machine, this seems like unnecessary extra use of the command. Hence, my question - is it safe for me to own `/usr/local`?

For example, Homebrew for OS X "Just Works" because they own `/usr/local` and *safely* install their software there without the use of `sudo`.

Additionally, if you have locally compiled software installed to `/usr/local`, the software currently needs root to modify themselves or install plugins. This seems unsafe - I want to only use `sudo` when I know *EXACTLY* what will happen.

Opinions?