What are Los Angeles's specific SB-9 regulations?

Hello,

Navigating the intricacies of SB-9 in Los Angeles can indeed be daunting, but I'll do my best to break it down for you. SB-9, effective from January 1, 2022, was introduced to help alleviate California's housing crisis by allowing homeowners to split their lots and build additional dwellings. Here’s how it applies to your situation:

### 1. Lot Splits Under SB-9

**Minimum Lot Size:**
In Los Angeles, SB-9 allows you to split a single-family residential lot into two, provided each resulting lot is at least 1,200 square feet. Since your lot is 7,500 square feet, you meet the basic requirement for a lot split.

**Lot Split Provisions:**
- Each lot must be used for residential purposes.
- The split must result in two roughly equal lots, though one can be slightly smaller as long as it’s not less than 40% of the original lot size.
- You must sign an affidavit stating your intent to live in one of the units for at least three years post-split, which helps prevent speculative selling.

### 2. ADU Considerations

**Building an ADU:**
Los Angeles allows for the construction of ADUs under SB-9, AB-68, and local ordinances. For your lot, you could potentially construct an ADU on each of the newly created parcels.

**Costs and Timelines:**
- **Permitting Process:** Expect the permitting process to take anywhere from 4 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of your project and the efficiency of the city’s planning department.
- **Construction Costs:** The cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles can range from $150,000 to $350,000, depending on size, design, and finishes. Prefabricated options might be more budget-friendly.
- **City Fees:** Be prepared for fees such as impact fees, school fees, and utility connection fees, which can add up to $20,000 or more.

### 3. Potential Restrictions

**Environmental and Historical Designations:**
- **Environmental Constraints:** Check if your property is in a designated fire zone, flood zone, or environmentally sensitive area, as these could impact your ability to split the lot or build an ADU.
- **Historical Designations:** If your home is part of a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ), additional restrictions may apply, and you’ll need to obtain approvals from the HPOZ board.

### 4. Additional Costs and Hidden Fees

Beyond construction, consider the following:
- **Infrastructure Upgrades:** You might need to upgrade sewer lines, water lines, or electrical systems, which can be costly.
- **Surveying and Engineering:** A professional survey and potentially a geotechnical report can add $5,000-$10,000 to your budget.
- **Legal and Consulting Fees:** Hiring a consultant or attorney to navigate the application and approval process could be beneficial, costing around $2,000-$5,000.

### 5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Zoning Laws:** Ensure compliance with local zoning laws to avoid costly delays.
- **Underestimating Costs:** Have a contingency budget of at least 10-15% of your total project cost to cover unexpected expenses.
- **Skipping Due Diligence:** Conduct thorough research or hire professionals to assess potential environmental or historical constraints before proceeding.

### 6. Next Steps and Resources

- **Consult with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety:** They can provide guidance specific to your property.
- **Professional Assistance:** Consider hiring an architect or a specialized ADU consultant who understands both SB-9 and local nuances.
- **Attend Workshops:** The city often holds workshops on ADU construction and SB-9 lot splits, which can be invaluable for firsthand learning.

### 7. Final Tips

Before diving in, I recommend reaching out to neighbors who have completed similar projects. They can offer insights and potentially recommend contractors or consultants. Also, keeping abreast of any updates to local ordinances is crucial, as regulations can evolve.

By following these guidelines, you can make informed decisions and effectively leverage SB-9 to maximize your property’s potential. Good luck with your project, and feel free to ask further questions as you progress!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
ADU Consultant