City of Compton
Everything You Need to Know About SB-684 Development in Compton
California's land use laws are undergoing major changes to permit more housing units per property. These updates aim to speed up the permitting process and let developers defer permit fees until their projects are finished. Following the US trend for middle housing, the new SB-684 law simplifies approvals for residential projects of up to 10 units on urban lots under 5 acres. Beginning July 1, 2024, cities like Compton will be required to accept applications under SB-684.
What is SB-684 and how does it affect properties in Compton?
SB-684 is a new California law designed to simplify the approval process for small housing projects across the state. It applies to developments of up to 10 residential units on urban lots smaller than 5 acres. Local governments have a 60-day window to review and decide on these applications, without requiring public hearings or extra evaluations. Additionally, certain environmental regulations, like those under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), are waived for these projects, which accelerates the approval process.
The current status of SB-684
The CityStructure team reached out to Compton's planning department to clarify how SB-684 will be implemented locally. Given that the law is still new and may require time for review and interpretation, we have not yet received a response. In the meantime, we will follow state regulations and provide updates as more details become available.
What can homeowners build under SB-684 in Compton?
What are the lot limitations under SB-684?
SB-684 applies to properties up to 5 acres. If a lot is split, each new lot should be at least 600 square feet.
What is the size limitation for the new units?
New units in Compton built under SB-684 can be as large as 1,750 square feet.
What are the setbacks?
New buildings should have a minimum setback of 4 feet from the side and rear property lines.
What is the parking requirement under SB-684?
Each unit needs one off-street parking space in Compton unless it’s within half a mile of major transit hubs or well-served public transit areas.
How many units can you have on your property following SB-684 restrictions?
Who and which properties qualify for SB-684?
Which zoning districts are eligible for SB-684?
In Compton, SB-684 applies to multi-family housing areas and vacant lots within zones designated for single-family homes.
How Does SB-1123 or Senate Bill 1123 Impact SB-684?
SB-684 was designed to streamline approvals for small homes in multi-family zones. SB-1123 expands these rules, allowing up to 10 homes on vacant lots in single-family areas, particularly near key community amenities. This extension aims to improve affordable housing access and promote homeownership in areas with limited options.
Do the environmental requirements or overlays on the lot restrict the property development under SB-684?
Yes, environmental factors can limit development. Hazardous waste sites, wetlands, agricultural areas, and prime farmland are generally off-limits unless they’re approved for residential use or meet state safety criteria. Additionally, areas under conservation agreements or designated wildlife habitats are typically protected from development to preserve ecosystems.
Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?
Yes, but strict rules apply. In Compton, building in high-risk CEQA zones is allowed under these conditions:
- Construction is prohibited in Very High Fire Severity Zones identified by state maps or the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
- Building on active fault lines in earthquake zones is restricted and only allowed if safety guidelines are followed.
- Development in flood zones should follow the federal flood control rules.
- Projects in floodways need certification to ensure they don’t heighten flood risks.
Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?
No, affordable housing units cannot be demolished in Compton. Development under SB-684 cannot involve removing or altering homes that are legally protected to keep rents affordable for low-income residents.
What are the restrictions on ownership and development after completing a project under SB-684?
Are the rights of current tenants protected?
Yes, existing tenants' rights are protected. New construction cannot include demolishing or modifying:
- Homes with rent or price controls set by the City of Compton.
- Properties that were rented within the last 5 years, even if currently vacant or previously demolished.
- Properties that removed rental units from the market under the Ellis Act within the past 15 years.
How do you get permits for a project under SB-684?
What type of permit applies to a development under SB-684?
For developments under SB-684, a ministerial permit is required. This permit allows local officials to review applications based on clear, established guidelines without public hearings or lengthy review. Projects that meet criteria like the maximum number of units and zoning rules can therefore be approved more efficiently.
What are objective standards?
Objective standards are straightforward, predefined rules set by local governments for building homes. They address things like zoning, lot splits, and design requirements without adding extra conditions, such as increased setbacks or additional parking beyond what’s typically needed.
How much does the permit cost?
Permit fees for Planning and Building vary based on the project’s lot and unit count. Beginning May 20, 2024, SB-937 will allow developers to defer certain impact fees until the project is completed and ready for occupancy, which can help reduce financing costs and improve budget flexibility.
What are the steps to get the permits?
To secure permits under SB-684 in Compton, follow these steps:
1. Verify Eligibility
Make sure your property meets zoning requirements, is less than 5 acres, and complies with all other criteria.
Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.
2. Submit a Tentative Map Application
Start by submitting your tentative map application, making it clear that it is for an SB-684 project.
3. City Review
The City of Compton will review your application and respond within 60 days. If denied, they will outline the reasons and offer guidance. If no response is received within that timeframe, the application will be automatically approved.
4. Request Final Map Approval
Once the tentative map is approved, you can proceed to request approval for the final map.
5. Apply for Building Permits
You may apply for building permits before the final map is officially recorded, as long as you meet certain conditions.
6. Complete Requirements and Record the Final Map
Ensure all requirements are completed and the final map is officially recorded to complete the subdivision process.
How fast can a project be completed under SB-684?
This information outlines the different phases of the project along with their respective durations.
Feasibility Study with deciding the final scope of the project:
- Maximum of 3 days using CityStructure Analysis
Secure Financing: 2 to 3 weeks
Hiring the Team: 2 weeks
Design Process:
- Schematic Design: 1-2 months
- Permit Set / Design Development Drawing Set: 2-3 months
- Construction Drawing Set: 2-3 months
Entitlements and Building Permits: 9 to 15 months with the possibility of extending further due to departmental backlogs
Construction:
- Single Family House/Duplex: 1 year
- Multifamily: 2 years
How does SB-684 compare with SB-9 in Compton City?
This comparison outlines the key differences between SB-684 and SB-9 in Compton, covering aspects like setbacks, unit and lot sizes, and suitable locations for new construction.
Apply SB-684 rules to your property to see what you can build, the cost, and return.
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