ADU & SB9
In 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 9 (SB9) to further address California’s housing shortage. SB9 went into effect January 1, 2022. This law establishes a streamlined process to develop two primary residential dwelling units on one eligible single-family zoned parcel, and to split one eligible single-family zoned parcel into two separate parcels of approximately equal size. SB9 also provides more flexible property setbacks and parking standards and extends subdivision approval expirations for eligible parcels
Single-Family Zone
The parcel must be zoned for single-family residential use.
The project site cannot be in a conservation area or hazardous waste site, and cannot contain protected species habitat, designated historic resources, prime farmland, farmland of statewide importance, wetlands or High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VFHSZ).
Not Within Protected Resource Areas
Demolition Restrictions
The project cannot involve demolition of affordable housing or rental housing/units.
Long Term Rental Requirement
If the project creates a rental unit, it must be a long-term rental (>30 days).
SB9 Land Divisions and Owner Occupancy
Parcels are not eligible for an SB9 land division if they were created by an SB9 urban lot split. Property owners are also required to occupy one of the lots as their primary residence for a minimum of three years.
Diagrammatic concept options of how a residential property in California could be used with Senate Bill 9 (SB9):
Additional Resources:
SB9 frequently asked questions Los Angeles City Planning Department
Los Angeles County Senate Bill 9 Implementation Memo Summary
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
An ADU is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same lot as the single family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADUs) are allowed in any zone that allows for residential use by right. Parking for a newly constructed ADU is not required when it is located within one-half mile walking distance of a public transit. Replacement parking is not required when covered parking is removed in conjunction with the construction of the ADU. ADUs are required to comply with all applicable Zoning, Building, and Residential Codes.
Additional Resources:
ADU Ordinance City of Los Angeles (LADBS)
The content of this section is intended for general reference only and a property specific review with all governing agencies is required for feasibility determination.