SB9 California HOME: Act Explained

The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith
Understanding the Impact: How High Inflation and State Legislation, like the HOME Act, Influence Housing Affordability and Impact Fees
Understanding the SB9 California Home Impact: How High Inflation and State Legislation, like the HOME Act, Influence Housing Affordability and Impact Fees

SB9, also known as the California HOME Act, is a bill aimed at addressing the housing crisis in California. It allows for the creation of duplexes or lot splits on residential properties in both single family lots two-family zones. Under SB9, homeowners can potentially build two residential units on their property, providing more housing options and increasing density in desirable areas. This legislation aims to promote affordable housing, increase housing supply, and address the housing shortage in California

The California SB9 HOME Act

Understanding the Impact of how high inflation and state legislation, like the HOME Act, Influence Housing Affordability and Impact Fees
Understanding the Impact of how high inflation and state legislation, like the HOME Act, Influence Housing Affordability and Impact Fees

The California HOME Act, also known as SB9, is a significant housing legislation designed to address the housing crisis in California. This act allows for the creation of duplexes or lot splits on residential properties located in the single family home two-family zones.

The goal is to increase housing density and provide more affordable housing options in areas that are traditionally limited to single-family homes. The SB9 California HOME Act seeks to encourage housing development, improve housing affordability, and promote sustainable growth within the state.

Other Impacts of SB9 Law

The SB9 law in California has several additional impacts beyond increasing housing density and providing more affordable housing options. Some of the key impacts include:

  1. Increased housing supply: SB9 allows for the creation of multiple residential units on a single property, which contributes to expanding the overall housing supply in California. This can help alleviate the housing shortage and increase the availability of homes for rent or purchase.
  2. Enhanced land utilization: The law encourages more efficient use of land by allowing property owners to develop additional units on their existing lots. This promotes smart growth principles and maximizes the use of available space in established neighborhoods.
  3. Diverse housing options: SB9 promotes housing diversity by enabling the construction of duplexes or lot splits. This allows for a wider range of housing types, accommodating different household sizes, needs, and budgets within single-family zones.
  4. Neighborhood revitalization: The law can contribute to the revitalization of neighborhoods by encouraging new construction and investment. Increased housing options may attract a more diverse population, infuse vitality into communities, and support local businesses and services.
  5. Environmental benefits: By utilizing existing infrastructure and land more efficiently, SB9 can help reduce urban sprawl and limit the need for new development on undeveloped land. This can help protect natural areas, preserve open spaces, and minimize environmental impact.
  6. Potential for intergenerational living: SB9 can facilitate intergenerational living arrangements by allowing property owners to build separate units for family members, such as aging parents or adult children. This promotes multigenerational households and fosters closer familial connections.
  7. Socioeconomic integration: Increased housing options and density can support socioeconomic integration within neighborhoods. By providing a mix of housing types and price points, SB9 encourages diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to coexist within the same communities.

Key Benefits That SB9 Creates?

Unraveling Investor Speculation: Exploring the Impact on Same Individual Ownership and Existing Single-Family Parcels
Unraveling Investor Speculation: Exploring the Impact on Same Individual Ownership and Existing Single-Family Parcels

SB9 creates several key benefits for homeowners in California. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Increased housing options: Homeowners can take advantage of SB9 to develop additional housing units on their property, such as duplexes or lot splits. This provides homeowners with the opportunity to generate rental income or accommodate extended family members while still maintaining their primary residence.
  2. Financial opportunities: Developing additional housing units can be financially beneficial for homeowners. It can create an additional income stream through rental units, helping to offset mortgage costs or provide supplemental income. Homeowners may also see increased property value and equity as a result of the added housing units.
  3. Flexibility and adaptability: SB9 offers homeowners flexibility in how they use their property. It allows them to adapt to changing family needs or financial circumstances by adding housing units without the need for significant property modifications or relocation.

More Information

  1. Potential for intergenerational living: SB9 enables homeowners to create separate living spaces for family members, such as aging parents or adult children. This allows for intergenerational living arrangements while maintaining privacy and independence for everyone involved.
  2. Community and neighborhood benefits: The additional housing units created through SB9 can contribute to community development and neighborhood revitalization. By increasing housing supply, homeowners can help address the housing shortage in California and contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant community.
  3. Long-term investment: Developing additional housing units can be a strategic long-term investment for homeowners. It can diversify their property portfolio and potentially generate long-term rental income, providing financial security and stability.
  4. Positive impact on the local housing market: Increasing housing supply through SB9 can have a positive impact on the local housing market. By adding more housing options, homeowners help alleviate housing shortages, create more affordable housing opportunities, and contribute to a more balanced and accessible housing market.

It’s important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with the specific requirements, regulations, and limitations of SB9 in their local jurisdiction before embarking on any development plans.

Consulting with local authorities or professionals in the field can provide homeowners with valuable guidance and ensure compliance with applicable laws.

The California Housing Crisis

Building for the Future: Housing Innovation and Urban Lot Splits under the California HOME Act Addressing Housing Shortage
Building for the Future: Housing Innovation and Urban Lot Splits under the California HOME Act Addressing Housing Shortage

The California housing crisis refers to a severe shortage of affordable housing in the state. Factors such as high housing costs, limited supply, income inequality, and homelessness contribute to the crisis.

Addressing it requires increasing the housing supply, implementing policy reforms, supporting affordable housing initiatives, and providing homelessness prevention and support services.

Collaborative efforts are needed to create sustainable solutions and ensure access to affordable housing for all Californians.

California Housing Opportunity

Unlocking Potential: Expanding Housing Options through More Unit on a Single Family Parcel, Existing Home, and the Role of a Landmark Districts in Balancing Vacation Rentals
Unlocking Potential: Expanding Housing Options through More Unit on a Single Family Parcel, Existing Home, and the Role of a Landmark Districts in Balancing Vacation Rentals

The California Housing Opportunity refers to the collective efforts and initiatives aimed at addressing the housing crisis and creating greater opportunities for affordable housing in the state.

It encompasses various strategies, policies, and programs focused on increasing housing supply, improving affordability, and ensuring access to safe and stable housing for all Californians.

The California Housing Opportunity

involves a range of stakeholders, including government entities, housing agencies, developers, non-profit organizations, and community members. Key components of the California Housing Opportunity include:

  1. Housing Development: Promoting the construction and preservation of affordable housing units through incentives, funding, and streamlined approval processes. This includes supporting the development of affordable rental units, homeownership opportunities, and mixed-income housing projects.
  2. Financial Assistance: Offering financial assistance programs such as down payment assistance, rental subsidies, and low-interest loans to help individuals and families afford housing and bridge the affordability gap.
  3. Housing Policy Reforms: Implementing policy changes at the state and local levels to address regulatory barriers, streamline processes, and encourage the construction of affordable housing. This includes zoning reforms, density bonuses, and expedited approval mechanisms.
  4. Tenant Protections: Enacting and enforcing tenant protections to safeguard renters’ rights, prevent displacement, and promote fair housing practices. This may include rent control ordinances, just-cause eviction protections, and anti-discrimination measures.
  5. Homelessness Prevention: Implementing strategies to prevent homelessness and provide supportive services for individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness. This includes outreach programs, rental assistance, and supportive housing initiatives.
  6. Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between government entities, private developers, and non-profit organizations to leverage resources, expertise, and funding for affordable housing projects.
  7. Community Engagement: Engaging communities and stakeholders in the planning and decision-making processes to ensure housing initiatives align with local needs, preferences, and priorities. This includes promoting equitable development and considering the unique characteristics of different regions and communities within California.

The California Housing Opportunity represents a comprehensive and ongoing effort to address the housing crisis and create greater access to affordable housing throughout the state.

SB9 Second Unit Development Restrictions and Requirements

Promoting Middle-Income Housing: The Impact of Senate Bill, New Laws, and Accessory Dwelling Units in Increasing Efficiency
Promoting Middle-Income Housing: The Impact of Senate Bill, New Laws, and Accessory Dwelling Units in Increasing Efficiency

SB 9, also known as the California HOME Act, allows homeowners in single-family zones to create two residential units on their existing property there.

The legislation eases restrictions on lot size, permits conversion of existing structures, and waives certain parking requirements.

Local regulations still apply, and homeowners must comply with building codes and obtain necessary permits.

The law also removes the owner-occupancy requirement, allowing homeowners to rent out both units.

What Are Accessory Dwelling Units

SB 9: A New Law to Address California's Housing Crisis - How the Senate Bill is Paving the Way for Change
SB 9: A New Law to Address California’s Housing Crisis – How the Senate Bill is Paving the Way for Change

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as granny flats, in-law units, or secondary units, are self-contained residential units that are secondary to the primary or accessory dwelling unit on a property.

ADUs are typically smaller in size and have four units with their own separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living space.

ADUs can be located within or attached to additional unit of the primary residence, such as a basement or an attic conversion, or they can be standalone structures, like a separate cottage or garage conversion.

They are designed to provide independent living spaces within the same property, allowing for additional housing options.

ADUs serve various purposes, including accommodating extended family members, for housing production providing rental income, or addressing the demand for more affordable housing.

They offer flexibility in housing arrangements and can contribute to increasing housing supply without significantly altering the character of existing neighborhoods.

In recent years, there has been increased interest in ADUs as a means to address housing shortages and promote more efficient land use.

Many jurisdictions have updated their regulations to encourage ADU construction by relaxing zoning restrictions, reducing parking requirements, and streamlining the permitting process.

It’s important to note that regulations regarding ADUs vary between jurisdictions, so it’s crucial to check with local planning departments or authorities to understand the specific requirements and restrictions in your area before considering building an ADU.

No Parking Requirements Unless Stated Otherwise By City Or Local Governments

Preserving California's Heritage: Historic Neighborhoods Across San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Stand Strong Amidst the Impact of California Senate Bill. A testament to the timeless charm and rich cultural tapestry of these iconic cities
Preserving California’s Heritage: Historic Neighborhoods Across San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Stand Strong Amidst the Impact of California Senate Bill. A testament to the timeless charm and rich cultural tapestry of these iconic cities

In general, ADUs in many jurisdictions have no parking requirements unless specifically mandated by city or local governments. This means that homeowners can typically build an ADU without providing additional parking spaces.

However, it’s important to verify the specific regulations and requirements of your city or local government, as some areas may still have parking-related stipulations for ADUs.

Consulting with your local planning department or relevant authorities can provide accurate information regarding parking requirements for ADUs in your specific area.

Property Owners Must Occupy One Of The Lots On The Property

Under SB 9, property owners are not required to occupy one of the lots on the property when creating additional residential units.

The legislation removes the owner-occupancy requirement, allowing homeowners to rent out both units without the obligation to live in one of them.

This provides property owners with more flexibility in utilizing their property for rental purposes.

However, it’s important to note that local regulations may vary, so it’s advisable to review the specific rules and requirements of your local jurisdiction regarding owner occupancy for additional clarity.

The Lot Split Needs To Be Fairly Equal

Transforming Urban Areas: Balancing Progress and Preservation. An urban lot split project preserves prime agriculture land while accommodating existing tenants, harmoniously blending growth with the beauty of nature
Transforming Urban Areas: Balancing Progress and Preservation. An urban lot split project preserves prime agriculture land while accommodating existing tenants, harmoniously blending growth with the beauty of nature

When it comes to lot splits under SB 9, it is generally required that the resulting lots be fairly equal in size.

While the legislation allows for the subdivision of a single lot into two separate parcels, the division should be done in a manner that results in reasonably balanced lot sizes.

This means that the resulting lots should be relatively equal in terms of their dimensions and area.

It’s important to comply with this requirement to ensure adherence to the regulations outlined in SB 9 and local jurisdiction guidelines.

If You Own Two Adjacent Lots, Can You Only Split One Of Them

Under local governments SB 9, if you own two adjacent lots, the legislation allows you to split only one of them.

You have the option to divide one of the lots into two separate parcels, creating an additional residential unit on that particular lot.

The other lot remains intact and unaffected by the subdivision. It’s important to adhere to the regulations of SB 9 and any other state law or local jurisdiction requirements when considering the subdivision of your property.

FAQ About SB9

Preserving California's Heritage: Historic Neighborhoods Across San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Stand Strong Amidst the Impact of California Senate Bill. A testament to the timeless charm and rich cultural tapestry of these iconic citie
Preserving California’s Heritage: Historic Neighborhoods Across San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Stand Strong Amidst the Impact of California Senate Bill. A testament to the timeless charm and rich cultural tapestry of these iconic cities

Q: What does SB9 aim to achieve?

A: The primary goal of SB9 is to increase housing density and provide more housing options within single-family zones, addressing the housing shortage and promoting affordable housing in California.

Q: What does SB9 allow homeowners to do?

A: SB9 allows homeowners to potentially build two residential units on their property. They can either convert existing structures or construct two new housing units, such as duplexes, on their single-family lots.

Q: Are there any requirements for lot size or parcel division under SB9?

A: SB9 does not specify specific lot size requirements for subdivision. However, it’s important to comply with local jurisdiction guidelines, which may have their own rules regarding lot size and division.

Q: Can homeowners rent out both units created under SB9?

A: Yes, homeowners are allowed to rent out both units created under SB9. The legislation removes the owner-occupancy requirement, providing homeowners with the flexibility to rent out both residential units.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the size or height of the units created under SB9?

A: SB9 specifies that each unit must have a floor area of at least 800 square feet. There are no specific height limitations for the new units, except that they should comply with the existing height restrictions set by the local jurisdiction.

Q: Does SB9 eliminate parking requirements for the new units?

A: SB9 waives certain parking requirements for the new units if the property is located within a half-mile radius of public transportation or in a historic district. However, local regulations may still apply, and it’s important to verify the specific parking requirements of your local jurisdiction.

Q: Do homeowners need to comply with building codes and obtain permits for the units created under SB9?

A: Yes, homeowners must comply with applicable building codes, obtain necessary permits, and follow local regulations when constructing or converting units under SB9. It’s important to consult with local planning departments or professionals to ensure compliance.

Q: Can local jurisdictions impose additional requirements or regulations on SB9 implementation?

A: Local governments and jurisdictions may have the ability to establish additional requirements or regulations that govern the implementation of SB9. It’s crucial to review the specific rules and guidelines of your local jurisdiction for accurate information.

Q: How can homeowners get more information about SB9 and its implementation?

A: Homeowners can seek more information about SB9 and its implementation by contacting their local planning departments, consulting with professionals in the field, or accessing official resources and publications provided by the state or local government.

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

Monica Martínez alvarado

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

DD M

Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

Nadia Faraci

James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

Ledi

James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

Renae Elise

James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

theresa26 r

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

Tricia Matsis

James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

Alvin Warren

I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

Jeremy Rasmussen Finnif Skate

James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

Alina Cojocari

James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber Styles

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

Bryce Colburn

James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

Jenn C

Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

Kerry Davis

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen Trexler

Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

Magan Mellinger

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen

I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

Maria Guardado

I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

Mark Hodges

A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

Marvell Wilson

I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

Paula Barriga

James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

Rachel Ottley

James is very knowledgeable, professional, and dependable. He patiently guided me through my estate planning and pre-nuptial questions, and made both processes much easier for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Sanat Sahasrabudhe

James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

Tulsi Patel

Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

V Cat

I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

vera vlasenko

I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

Contact Us Now

CF-pic.png

(916) 704-3009