California enacted a new law that is intended to help with the current housing crisis throughout the state. Senate Bill 9 (known as CA-SB9) allows for homeowners to take their single-family zoned property, split the lots into two parcels and build up to 2 units (duplex) on each, totaling 4 units. For more information on the specific requirements and restrictions click here.
As with any new senate bill, there are always pros and cons to take into consideration:
Pros:
(1) Creates more housing
(2) Increased land values
(3) Capability to build multiple units that can be used for families to stay close to one another
(4) Ability to generate rental income to help increase personal wealth
Cons:
(1) Owner of single-family residence must live in one of the units for at least 3 years from time project is complete.
(2) Fear that neighborhoods will become high rental areas which could affect other owner occupied homes and their values.
(3) Cost of development is far too expensive for most homeowners to be able to fund, therefore it does not resolve the housing crisis.
(4) Does not require sufficient parking for the multiple units that can cause parking issue
(5) Loss of rights of current homeowners who oppose multi-family dwelling units in their communities.
Opponents are putting together an initiative on the November 2022 ballot as an appeal and more regulations for those who are worried about the negative potential impact the new bill can have on their neighborhoods and economically.
Have questions about how CA-SB9 will affect you?