What is SB-684 and how does it affect properties in Inglewood?

SB-684 is a new California law designed to streamline the approval process for smaller housing projects. It applies to developments of up to 10 residential units on urban lots smaller than 5 acres. Under this law, local governments should review and approve these projects within 60 days, without requiring public hearings or extra evaluations. Additionally, the law removes certain environmental regulations, including some under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), to speed up the approval process.

The current status of SB-684

The CityStructure team reached out to Inglewood's planning department on November 4, 2024, 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 Inglewood?

What are the lot limitations under SB-684?

SB-684 applies to properties no larger than 5 acres. When subdividing a lot, each new lot should be at least 600 square feet.

What is the size limitation for the new units?

In Inglewood, under SB-684, new units can be as large as 1,750 square feet.

What are the setbacks?

New structures should have a minimum setback of 4 feet from both the side and rear property lines.

What is the parking requirement under SB-684?

Each unit in Inglewood should provide one off-street parking space unless the property is within half a mile of major transit hubs or well-served by public transportation.

How many units can you have on your property following SB-684 restrictions?

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Who and which properties qualify for SB-684?

Which zoning districts are eligible for SB-684?

In Inglewood, SB-684 applies to multi-family residential zones and vacant lots within single-family residential areas.

How Does SB-1123 or Senate Bill 1123 Impact SB-684?

While SB-684 streamlines the approval process for small housing developments in multi-family zones, SB-1123 extends this flexibility to allow up to 10 homes on vacant lots in single-family zones, especially near important community amenities. This expansion aims to increase affordable housing availability and encourage homeownership in areas with limited housing options.

Do the environmental requirements or overlays on the lot restrict the property development under SB-684?

Yes, environmental regulations can limit where development is allowed. Properties on hazardous waste sites, wetlands, agricultural land, or prime farmland are usually restricted unless they are designated for residential use or meet state safety standards. Areas under conservation easements or designated as wildlife habitats are generally off-limits to protect natural ecosystems.

Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?

Yes, but there are strict conditions. In Inglewood, development in high-risk CEQA zones is allowed with the following restrictions:

• Construction is prohibited in Very High Fire Severity Zones, as designated by state maps or the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
• Development is restricted on active fault lines in earthquake-prone areas, requiring adherence to safety standards.
• Projects in flood zones should comply with federal flood control regulations.
• Projects in floodways must be certified to ensure they do not increase flood risks.

Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?

No, SB-684 prohibits demolishing affordable units in Inglewood. Projects cannot involve removing or modifying homes designated for maintaining affordability 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, the rights of current tenants are protected. New construction cannot involve the demolition or alteration of:

• Homes are subject to rent or price controls set by the City of Inglewood.
• Properties that have been rented out within the last 5 years, even if they are now vacant or demolished.
• Properties that have removed rental units from the market under the Ellis Act in 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?

Developments under SB-684 require a ministerial permit, which allows local authorities to process applications based on clear, predetermined rules, without needing public hearings or extensive reviews. Projects that meet the specified criteria, such as zoning and unit density, can be approved more quickly.

What are objective standards?

Objective standards are clear, predefined rules set by local authorities for residential construction. These standards address zoning, lot divisions, and design specifications, without adding extra requirements like larger setbacks or additional parking beyond what is normally required.

How much does the permit cost?

The cost of Planning and Building permits depends on the number of units and lots in the project. Starting May 20, 2024, SB-937 will allow developers to delay certain impact fees until the project is completed and ready for occupancy, helping reduce financing costs and providing more flexibility in budgeting.

What are the steps to get the permits?

To secure permits under SB-684 in Inglewood, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility

Make sure your property complies with zoning regulations, is under 5 acres, and meets all other required criteria.

Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.

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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 Inglewood will assess your application and respond within 60 days. If the application is denied, they will explain why and offer recommendations. If there is no response within this period, the application will be automatically approved.

4. Request Final Map Approval

After the tentative map is approved, you can move forward with requesting 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 the required conditions are met.

6. Complete Requirements and Record the Final Map

Ensure all remaining conditions are satisfied 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 Inglewood City?

This comparison outlines the key differences between SB-684 and SB-9 in Inglewood, focusing on aspects like setbacks, unit and lot sizes, and the areas where new construction is allowed.

Apply SB-684 rules to your property to see what you can build, the cost, and return.

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Resources

Inglewood Municipal Code