Unlocking Housing Potential with SB-9: What Homeowners Need to Know

California's Senate Bill 9 (SB-9), also known as the "California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act," is a game-changer for homeowners looking to maximize their property’s potential. Signed into law in 2021, SB-9 empowers homeowners to create additional housing units on their property, helping to address the state’s housing crisis while offering financial and lifestyle benefits.

How SB-9 Works

SB-9 allows homeowners in single-family residential zones to:

1. Build up to two residential units on their property.

2. Split their lot into two parcels, enabling the construction of additional housing units on each.

The process is streamlined through ministerial approval, meaning no public hearings or discretionary reviews are required, as long as the project meets specific criteria. This includes compliance with zoning standards, preservation of historic properties, and adherence to environmental regulations.

Benefits for Homeowners

1. Generate Rental Income: Adding units can provide a steady income stream.

2. Increase Property Value: More units often mean higher property valuations.

3. Support Multigenerational Living: Create space for family members while maintaining privacy.

4. Simplified Approval Process: Avoid lengthy and costly discretionary reviews.

The Application Process

Applying for an SB-9 project involves:

1. Submitting Plans: Provide detailed designs that meet local zoning and design standards.

2. Signing an Affidavit: Homeowners must commit to living in one of the units for at least three years.

3. Meeting Objective Standards: Ensure compliance with setback, parking, and unit size requirements (e.g., each unit must be at least 800 square feet).

Local agencies are required to approve applications that meet these criteria, making the process predictable and efficient.