QUICK UNDERSTANDING OF

CALIFORNIA’S SENATE BILL 9 (SB9) IN LOS ANGELES

What is SB9?

A state law that went into effect on January 1, 2022, that allows homeowners to build up to 4 units total on a lot that was previously zoned for a single-family home. If the project meets certain requirements, its city must approve it through a ministerial process, meaning no public hearings or discretionary reviews are required.

How does this work?

Homeowners can split an existing lot into 2, and build up to 2 units on each lot, allowing for a total of 4 units.

Why was this put into effect?

To increase and speed up housing production in California’s urban areas by making the process easier for homeowners.

What major restrictions are there?

If the renters have only recently occupied the home within the last 3 years, SB9 can not be used to split the property or to add units. SB9 does not apply to historic neighborhoods, protected wildlife areas, and areas with high fire risk. The lot must be large enough to accommodate both the existing unit and the new one.

Units can include: Single-Family homes, Duplexes, & ADUs.

What’s the process for obtaining SB9 approval in Los Angeles?

STEP 1: Check Site Eligibility

Prior to anything, ensure that your property is compliant with SB 9:

It should be in a single-family residence zone.
The plot should not exceed a historic district, high fire risk zone, flood zone, or other protected zones.
You need to have owned the property for a minimum of 3 years if doing a lot split.
No tenants have ever been evicted in recent years for redevelopment reasons.

STEP 2: Reach out to ADU Resource Center's Design Team

Once eligibility is confirmed, reach out to our planning or design team (866-429-1440) to:

Discuss your goals, whether it’s a unit addition or a lot split.
View design potential according to SB9 guidelines.
Get information on requirements, timeframes, and expenses.

STEP 3: Schedule a Free On-Site Evaluation

Schedule a Free On-Site Evaluation

Study your lot configuration and constraints.
Take measurements and photo the property.
Provide realistic design and development recommendations based on the unique property.

STEP 4: Application Process

Application Process

A formal SB9 project plan is drawn up (site plan, floor plans, etc.).
Our team will submit an SB9 application to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
The application has to be in accordance with local and state zoning laws, e.g., setbacks, unit size, and parking requirements.

STEP 5: Undergoing Plan Review

Undergoing Plan Review

LADBS and perhaps the Planning Department check your plans for compliance.
Corrections or clarifications might be requested.
Once approved, you’ll receive permits to start construction.

SB9 Waivers in Los Angeles

If your local zoning rules (for example, setbacks, parking, or lot size) prevent you from building under SB9, you may be entitled to a waiver. Cities are required to grant waivers when these rules physically prevent you from having two units or splitting the lot.

Waivers don’t replace environmental protection, historic designation, or tenant law, but they can render more properties constructible under SB9. Have zoning restrictions? Our team can help determine if your project qualifies for a waiver. (866-429-1440)

(866) 429-1440

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