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Everything You Need to Know About SB-684 Development in Rolling Hills
Starting July 1, 2024, cities like Rolling Hills will need to process applications for projects that comply with SB-684's guidelines. This law allows for up to 10 units on urban lots smaller than 5 acres and simplifies the approval process. It increases the number of units allowed per property and allows developers to postpone permit fees until construction is finished or an occupancy certificate is granted.
What is SB-684 and how does it affect properties in Rolling Hills?
SB-684 is a new California law created to streamline the process of approving small housing developments. It applies to projects that have up to 10 units on parcels smaller than 5 acres. Under this law, local authorities should make decisions within 60 days, bypassing public hearings and detailed reviews. It also eliminates some requirements 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 Rolling Hills' planning department on November 5, 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 Redondo Beach?
What are the lot limitations under SB-684?
SB-684 applies to properties of 5 acres or less. When dividing a lot, each resulting parcel should be no smaller than 600 square feet.
What is the size limitation for the new units?
In Rolling Hills, the new units created under SB-684 can be as large as 1,750 square feet.
What are the setbacks?
Setbacks of up to 4 feet are required from both the side and rear property lines.
What is the parking requirement under SB-684?
In Rolling Hills, each unit should provide one off-street parking space unless the property is located within half a mile of a major transit stop or a well-connected transit area.
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?
SB-684 in Rolling Hills applies to multi-family zoning areas as well as vacant lots in neighborhoods zoned for single-family homes.
How Does SB-1123 or Senate Bill 1123 Impact SB-684?
While SB-684 streamlines the approval process for small residential projects in multi-family zones, SB-1123 expands this by allowing up to 10 homes on vacant lots zoned for single-family use, particularly those near essential community services. The aim is to increase affordable housing opportunities and promote homeownership in areas with limited resources.
Do the environmental requirements or overlays on the lot restrict the property development under SB-684?
Yes, environmental regulations can limit development under SB-684. Properties located on hazardous waste sites, wetlands, prime agricultural land, or farmland are usually restricted from development unless they are approved for residential use or meet specific safety standards. Conservation and wildlife habitat areas are generally protected from development.
Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?
It depends. In Rolling Hills, construction may be allowed in high-risk CEQA zones under certain conditions:
(a) Construction is not allowed in Very High Fire Severity Zones as identified by the state or Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
(b) Development on active fault lines in earthquake-prone zones should comply with safety standards.
(c) Projects in flood zones should adhere to federal flood regulations.
(d) Developments in floodways require certification to ensure they won’t increase flood risks.
Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?
No, SB-684 prohibits the demolition of affordable housing units in Rolling Hills. It protects low-income housing from being 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. Development projects cannot demolish or modify:
- Properties are subject to Rolling Hills’ rent control regulations.
- Properties that have been rented in the last 5 years, whether they are occupied, vacant, or demolished.
- Properties where rental units were withdrawn via 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?
Developments under SB-684 need a ministerial permit, which allows for quicker approval based on set local criteria. This eliminates the need for public hearings or detailed reviews. As long as the project meets zoning and density requirements, it can be approved quickly.
What are objective standards?
Objective standards are specific guidelines established by local authorities for residential developments. They cover zoning, lot divisions, and design elements, without imposing additional conditions like larger setbacks or extra parking requirements beyond the standard.
How much does the permit cost?
The cost of permits varies depending on the project's size. As of May 20, 2024, SB-937 gives developers the option to postpone some impact fees until the project is finished and ready for occupancy, offering more financial flexibility.
What are the steps to get the permits?
To secure permits under SB-684 in Rolling Hills, follow these steps:
1. Confirm eligibility. Ensure the property aligns with zoning rules, is under 5 acres, and meets all necessary conditions.
Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.
2. Submit the Tentative Map Application. Begin by applying the tentative map, ensuring it's marked as part of the SB-684 project.
3. City Review and Response. The City of Rolling Hills will evaluate the submission and provide feedback within 60 days. If the application is rejected, they will provide reasons and recommendations for adjustments. If there is no response within 60 days, the application will be automatically approved.
4. Request Approval for the Final Map. After the preliminary map is approved, proceed with requesting final map approval.
5. Apply for Building Permits. You can apply for building permits before the final map is recorded, provided all necessary conditions are met.
6. Meet Conditions and Record the Final Map. Address any outstanding requirements and officially file the final map 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 Rolling Hills City?
SB-684 and SB-9 in Rolling Hills differ in several ways, such as setback requirements, maximum sizes for lots and units, and the specific zoning areas where new developments can be built.
Apply SB-684 rules to your property to see what you can build, the cost, and return.
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