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Everything You Need to Know About SB-684 Development in Lancaster
The state of California is revising its land use laws to allow more units per property, streamline the permit approval process, and provide developers the flexibility to delay permit fees until the project's completion or occupancy certificate issuance. SB-684 is a key part of a broader initiative to support middle housing, simplifying approval for developments with up to 10 units on urban lots under 5 acres. Starting July 1, 2024, cities like Lancaster will be required to accept applications for qualifying projects under SB-684.
What is SB-684 and how does it affect properties in Lancaster?
SB-684 is a new California law aimed at streamlining and accelerating the approval process for small-scale housing projects. It applies to developments with up to 10 units on properties under 5 acres. Local governments are required to make decisions on these projects within 60 days, without the need for public hearings or extensive reviews. Additionally, the law removes certain environmental regulations to help speed up the approval process.
The current status of SB-684
The CityStructure team reached out to Lancaster's planning department on November 6, 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 Lancaster?
What are the lot limitations under SB-684?
SB-684 applies to properties that are no larger than 5 acres. When splitting the land, each resulting lot should be a minimum of 600 square feet.
What is the size limitation for the new units?
In Lancaster, homes constructed under SB-684 can be up to 1,750 square feet in size.
What are the setbacks?
New buildings should be at least 4 feet away from the property’s side and rear boundaries.
What is the parking requirement under SB-684?
Each new home in Lancaster should provide at least one off-street parking space unless it’s located within a half-mile of a major transit hub or in an area well-served by public transportation.
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 Lancaster, SB-684 applies to areas zoned for multi-family housing as well as vacant lots located in neighborhoods proposed for single-family homes.
How Does SB-1123 or Senate Bill 1123 Impact SB-684?
SB-684 simplifies the process for small housing projects in multi-family zones, whereas SB-1123 broadens this by allowing up to 10 homes on vacant single-family lots, especially in areas close to vital community services. This change is aimed at boosting affordable housing options and encouraging homeownership in areas with limited housing availability.
Do the environmental requirements or overlays on the lot restrict the property development under SB-684?
Yes, environmental regulations can limit where development can be built. Properties situated on hazardous waste sites, wetlands, prime agricultural land, or farmland typically face restrictions unless they are zoned for residential use or comply with state safety requirements. Conservation areas and wildlife habitats are usually off-limits to safeguard ecosystems.
Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?
It may be allowed but with limitations. In Lancaster, development in high-risk CEQA zones is subject to conditions, including:
1. No construction in areas designated as Very High Fire Severity Zones by state maps or the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
2. Development is restricted on active fault lines and should meet earthquake safety regulations.
3. Projects in flood zones should comply with federal flood control regulations.
4. Any development in floodways should be certified to ensure it does not worsen flood risk.
Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?
No, SB-684 restricts the demolition of affordable housing in Lancaster. The law ensures that homes designated for low-income residents remain intact and cannot be removed or altered.
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 existing tenants are protected. New development projects cannot include the demolition or modification of:
- Properties are subject to rent or price control regulations by the City of Lancaster.
- Properties that have been rented within the past 5 years, even if they are now vacant or have been torn down.
- Properties that have removed rental units through the Ellis Act within the past 15 years.
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How do you get permits for a project under SB-684?
What type of permit applies to a development under SB-684?
For SB-684 projects, a ministerial permit is needed. This type of permit allows local authorities to approve applications based on established guidelines, eliminating the need for public hearings or detailed assessments. If the project complies with the necessary zoning rules and density standards, it can be quickly approved.
What are objective standards?
Objective standards refer to specific, predefined criteria established by local authorities for residential developments. These guidelines cover zoning, lot divisions, and design aspects, without imposing additional requirements like extended setbacks or extra parking spaces beyond the standard.
How much does the permit cost?
The cost of Planning and Building permits depends on the scope of the project. Starting May 20, 2024, SB-937 will enable developers to delay certain impact fees until the project is completed and ready for occupancy, providing more financial flexibility.
What are the steps to get the permits?
To secure permits under SB-684 in Lancaster, follow these steps:
1. Verify Eligibility. Ensure the property meets zoning regulations, is under 5 acres, and satisfies all other requirements.
Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.
2. Submit a Tentative Map Request. Start by submitting a tentative map request, making sure it is marked as an SB-684 project.
3. City Evaluation and Result. The City of Lancaster will assess your application and provide feedback within 60 days. If the application is denied, they will outline the reasons and suggest changes. If no decision is made within 60 days, the application is automatically approved.
4. Submit Request for Final Map Approval. After the preliminary map is accepted, proceed with requesting approval for the final map.
5. Apply for Building Permits. You can apply for building permits before the final map is officially recorded, as long as all required conditions are fulfilled.
6. Meet Conditions and File the Final Map. Ensure that all necessary conditions are completed and file the final map to officially finalize 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 Lancaster City?
Here's a breakdown of how SB-684 and SB-9 differ in Lancaster, focusing on setback requirements, allowable unit and lot sizes, and the specific areas designated for new construction.
Apply SB-684 rules to your property to see what you can build, the cost, and return.
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