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

Senate Bill 684, also known as SB-684 simplifies the approval process for smaller housing developments in California, particularly for projects with a maximum of 10 units on urban lots under 5 acres. In Sierra Madre, local authorities should approve these projects within 60 days, without requiring public hearings or discretionary reviews. Additionally, the law offers exemptions from certain rules, including those outlined in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

The current status of SB-684

Since SB-684 is relatively new and not widely known, many people may be unfamiliar with it, and applicants could face challenges due to limited resources and understanding.
CityStructure contacted the city's planning department, and on September 6, 2024, Katelyn Huang, Sierra Madre's assistant planner, clarified to the CityStructure team when we reached out to her, that:

"We don't have a specific ordinance that addresses SB 684."

In this case, implementing this bill requires compliance with state regulations.

To make the most of this new law for your property, it’s essential to understand the state’s guidelines thoroughly. Clear instructions will help applicants take full advantage of the law’s benefits.

What can homeowners build under SB-684 in Sierra Madre?

What are the lot limitations under SB-684?

In Sierra Madre, properties up to 5 acres are allowed, with a maximum of 10 lots allowed. Each lot should have a minimum size of 600 square feet.

What is the size limitation for the new units?

Under SB-684, new units cannot surpass 1,750 square feet.

What are the setbacks?

Setbacks require a minimum distance of 4 feet from both the side and rear property lines.

What is the parking requirement under SB-684?

Each unit in Sierra Madre should have one off-street parking space unless the property is 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?

Please enter a valid address

Who and which properties qualify for SB-684?

Which zoning districts are eligible for SB-684?

In Sierra Madre, SB-684 applies to both multi-family housing and vacant lots within single-family residential zoning districts.

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

SB-1123 extends the rules of SB-684 by allowing the construction of up to 10 smaller homes not only in multi-family zones but also on vacant lots within single-family neighborhoods. This update supports affordable housing projects and improves opportunities for homeownership in areas that previously faced stricter regulations.

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

Yes, environmental regulations can limit development. Properties classified as wetlands, agricultural zones, prime farmland, or hazardous waste sites are typically not eligible for subdivision unless designated for residential use or compliant with state safety standards.

Similarly, areas under conservation agreements or identified as wildlife habitats are usually restricted to protect the environment and species.

Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?

Possibly. In Sierra Madre, construction is not allowed in Very High Fire Severity Zones as defined by state maps or the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Building near active earthquake fault lines is also restricted unless strict safety protocols are followed.

For flood zones, development is permitted if it meets floodplain management standards or federal flood control regulations. Projects in floodways should obtain no-rise certification to ensure they don't increase flood risks.

Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?

No, SB-684 prohibits the demolition of affordable housing units. Projects are required to avoid demolishing or altering housing protected by agreements or regulations ensuring affordability for low, very low, or extremely low-income individuals.

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. SB-684 prevents projects from demolishing or altering:

• Homes with rent or price controls in Sierra Madre.
• Residences that housed tenants within the last 5 years, even if they are now vacant or have been demolished.
• Properties where the Ellis Act was used to remove rental units from the market 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?

Residential projects under SB-684 require ministerial approval. This permit streamlines the approval process, allowing local authorities to evaluate based on predetermined criteria without requiring discretionary reviews or public hearings. Projects that meet specific conditions, like unit count and zoning, can be approved more quickly.

What are objective standards?

Objective standards are clear, specific guidelines set by local authorities for building and designing homes. They include rules on zoning, lot sizes, and design elements. These standards are intended to be simple and practical, allowing projects to meet density goals without requiring extra setbacks or parking.

How much does the permit cost?

The fees for planning and building permits are based on how many lots and housing units a project includes. Starting on May 20, 2024, the recently passed law, SB-937 will allow developers to postpone certain charges until they receive an occupancy certificate, helping to decrease initial expenses.

What are the steps to get the permits?

To secure permits under SB-684 in Sierra Madre, take these steps:

• Confirm Eligibility: Make sure the property is properly zoned, under 5 acres, and meets all necessary criteria.

Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.

Please enter a valid address

• Submit a Tentative Map Application: File an application for a tentative map, specifying that it’s for SB-684.
• Review Process: City officials will review your application within 60 days. If denied, you’ll receive feedback. If no response is provided within 60 days, the application is automatically approved.
• Apply for Final Map Approval: Once the tentative map is approved, apply for final map approval.
• Submit for Building Permits: Submit building permit applications before recording the final map, provided all necessary conditions are met.
• Meet Approval Conditions: Complete all required conditions and record the final map to finish 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 Sierra Madre City?

In Sierra Madre, SB-684 and SB-9 have different impacts on unit sizes, setbacks, lot sizes, density, and development zones. This comparison outlines how each regulation influences these factors and their effects on local construction projects.

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

Please enter a valid address

Related Articles

ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Sierra Madre

All You Need to Know About Building on Properties in Sierra Madre Under SB-9

How to get your permits fast or the benefits of using SB-423 in Sierra Madre

How to Make My ADU a Profitable Investment in Sierra Madre?

What are the requirements to build ADU in Sierra Madre?

More articles ...

Resources