SB 9 turns TWO!  Hailed as a victory for CA Zoning; What’s new and how it helps you!

A Brief Recap of SB 9

In our recent blog, we looked at the bill, and how it aims to alleviate the housing crisis, with the goal of allowing more flexibility in residential zoning laws.

The key provisions of SB 9 include:

• Lot Splitting: Homeowners can split their single-family lots into two separate lots, which can potentially accommodate up to four residential units.
• Duplex Development: Property owners are allowed to build a duplex on each of the newly created lots, increasing the potential density of residential areas.

The bill was designed to promote more affordable housing options and to combat the state’s severe housing shortage.

Recent updates and developments

As of September 2024, several important updates have emerged regarding SB 9:

1. Increased Local Control and Adjustments: 
   Recent amendments to SB 9 have granted our local municipalities more control over how the bill is implemented. Cities and counties now could impose certain design and environmental standards to ensure new developments align with community aesthetics and infrastructure capabilities. This shift aims to balance the need for increased housing density with maintaining local character and control.
   
   
2. New Funding for Infrastructure Improvements: 
   The state legislature has allocated additional funding to support infrastructure improvements in areas affected by SB 9. This funding is intended to help cities manage the increased demand for public services, such as water, sewage, and transportation systems, resulting from new developments.
   
   
3. Expanded Affordability Measures: 
   Recent updates include provisions that may, in some circumstances, require a percentage of new units developed under SB 9 to be set aside as affordable housing. This move aims to address criticisms that the bill could otherwise contribute to rising property values and exacerbate affordability issues.
   
   
4. Streamlined Approval Processes: 
   The state has introduced measures to streamline the approval process for SB 9 projects. This includes reducing bureaucratic hurdles and accelerating permit approvals, which is expected to speed up the construction of new housing units.
   
   
5. Enhanced Reporting and Accountability: 
   There is now an increased emphasis on data collection and reporting regarding the impact of SB 9. Local governments are required to provide regular updates on how many new units have been created, the affordability of these units, and the impact on local infrastructure. This will help track the effectiveness of the bill and make necessary adjustments.

What Does this Mean for Homeowners, Developers and local Governments?

For homeowners, the latest updates provide a clearer path to developing additional housing on their properties, with more defined guidelines and support for infrastructure needs. 

For developers, an expectation of a more predictable and streamlined process, though they will need to adhere to new affordability and design standards.

For local governments, the updates mean increased responsibilities but also additional resources to handle the changes brought about by SB 9. The enhanced reporting requirements will ensure greater transparency and accountability in how the bill is implemented.

Looking Ahead to SB 684

SB 9 is part of a broader set of housing reforms and policies in California. Its success continues to pave the way for additional measures aimed at addressing our housing shortages, including further easing of zoning regulations.

Stay Tuned! As we look forward to next months discussion, we’ll be introducing information on Senate Bill 684. SB 684 is similar to SB 9 yet looks to streamline development projects for up to 10 residential units on lots up to 5 acres. This bill was passed in October of 2023, and is part of the broader policies aiding in the housing shortage and affordability in California, on eligible larger parcels of land.

So much to think about!

So, for those interested in SB 9 or subdivision of property, we are here to help you navigate the complex landscape of the latest Senate Bills. As always G&M is your partner, and no matter the scope, size or type of project, we are here to support your engineering goals.

We’ll look forward to hearing from you soon.

Since 1994, G&M’s goal is to “Make our Clients' Vision a Reality."