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

SB-684 is a new law in California designed to streamline and speed up the approval process for small housing projects. It applies to developments with up to 10 units on properties under 5 acres. The legislation requires that local governments make decisions within 60 days, removing the need for public hearings or extensive reviews. Additionally, it exempts certain environmental regulations to further expedite the process.

The current status of SB-684

The CityStructure team reached out to Maywood'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 Maywood?

What are the lot limitations under SB-684?

SB-684 applies to properties that are no larger than 5 acres. When subdividing, each resulting lot should be no smaller than 600 square feet.

What is the size limitation for the new units?

In Maywood, new homes constructed under SB-684 can be as large as 1,750 square feet.

What are the setbacks?

New buildings should have a setback at least 4 feet from both the side and rear property lines.

What is the parking requirement under SB-684?

In Maywood, each new house should have at least one off-street parking space, unless the property is located within a half-mile radius of a major transit hub or an area with adequate public transportation options.

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 Maywood, SB-684 applies to properties designated for multi-family housing and also to vacant lots located in areas intended for single-family homes.

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

SB-684 simplifies the approval process for small-scale developments in multi-family zones, while SB-1123 broadens the scope by allowing up to 10 homes on vacant lots intended for single-family use, especially in locations with convenient access to essential community services. This change aims to increase affordable housing options and foster homeownership in areas with limited housing supply.

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

Yes, environmental regulations can impose restrictions on development. Properties located on hazardous waste sites, wetlands, prime agricultural land, or farmland generally face limitations, unless they are zoned for residential use or comply with state safety guidelines. Conservation areas and wildlife habitats are usually off-limits to protect the environment.

Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?

Possibly. Development in high-risk CEQA zones is likely but subject to strict conditions. In Maywood, these include:

A. Prohibition of construction in Very High Fire Severity Zones as identified by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection or state maps.

B. Restrictions on developments located along active fault lines, requiring compliance with earthquake safety regulations.

C. Any development in flood-prone areas should comply with federal flood management regulations.

D. Projects in floodways should be certified to ensure they do not worsen flood risks.

Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?

No, SB-684 prohibits the demolition of affordable housing units in Maywood, ensuring that properties designated for low-income residents are maintained 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 Maywood's rent or price control regulations.
• Properties have been rented within 5 years, even if vacant or demolished.
• Properties that have removed rental units through the Ellis Act within the last 15 years.

How do you get permits for a project under SB-684?

What type of permit applies to a development under SB-684?

Projects under SB-684 need a ministerial permit. This permit enables local authorities to approve developments based on predefined criteria, without the need for public hearings or in-depth reviews. If the project meets zoning and density standards, approval can be granted quickly.

What are objective standards?

Objective standards refer to specific, predetermined guidelines established by local authorities for residential developments. These standards cover zoning, lot divisions, and design aspects, without imposing additional requirements like increased setbacks or more parking spaces than typically needed.

How much does the permit cost?

The fees for planning and building permits depend on the scope of the project. Starting May 20, 2024, SB-937 will allow developers to delay certain impact fees until the project is complete and ready for occupancy, offering more flexibility with costs.

What are the steps to get the permits?

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

1. Check eligibility. Ensure the property meets zoning regulations, is under 5 acres, and complies with all other requirements.

Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.

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2. Submit a Request for the Tentative Map. Begin by submitting the tentative map request, clearly labeled as part of the SB-684 project.

3. City Evaluation and Response. The City of Maywood will review your submission and provide feedback within 60 days. If the application is denied, they will explain the reasons and suggest changes. If no decision is made in 60 days, the application is automatically approved.

4. Request Final Map Approval. After the preliminary map is approved, proceed with submitting the request for final map approval.

5. Apply for Building Permits. You can apply for building permits before the final map is officially filed, provided all necessary conditions are met.

6. Complete the Conditions and File the Final Map. Address any remaining conditions and file the final map to officially 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 Maywood City?

Here's a comparison between SB-684 and SB-9 in Maywood, highlighting key differences in setback regulations, allowable lot and unit sizes, and the areas designated for new development.

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

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