SB 9 allows up to four homes in most single-family zones, regardless of local zoning.
SB 9, a new law signed by Governor Newsom on Friday, will now permit the construction of two-unit buildings on lots that are zoned for single-family homes. Now, with the new bill, up to four residential units can be built on one single-family lot.
According to the New York Times, the law will generate 700,000 more units in California. Previously, around 100,000 new housing units were produced annually in the state.
SB 9 was written by Senate Pro Tem Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego). Dubbed the California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act, the law “facilitates the process for homeowners to build a duplex or split their current residential lot, expanding housing options for people of all incomes that will create more opportunities for homeowners to add units on their existing properties.”
The law includes provisions to “prevent the displacement of existing renters and protect historic districts, fire-prone areas and environmental quality.”
“I appreciate Governor Newsom’s continued commitment to solving one of the most vexing issues facing our state – increasing the amount of housing and widening access for more Californians,” said Atkins. “SB 9 will open up opportunities for homeowners to help ease our state’s housing shortage, while still protecting tenants from displacement. And it will help our communities welcome new families to the neighborhood and enable more folks to set foot on the path to buying their first home. I’m grateful for the Governor’s partnership, and our shared determination to turn the corner on California’s housing crisis.”
Recent polling indicates a majority of California voters strongly oppose both SB 9 and SB 10.
The new law will take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. Read the full law here.
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