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Everything You Need to Know About SB-684 Development in South Gate
Starting July 1, 2024, cities such as South Gate will need to handle applications for projects that comply with SB-684. This law streamlines approvals for building up to 10 units on smaller properties (less than 5 acres) and accelerates the approval process. Additionally, it allows developers to postpone permit fee payments until construction is finished or the building is ready to be occupied.
What is SB-684 and how does it affect properties in South Gate?
SB-684 is a recent California law created to streamline and speed up the approval process for small housing projects. It applies to developments with up to 10 units on properties smaller than 5 acres. The law requires local authorities to make quick decisions—within 60 days—without needing public meetings or lengthy reviews. Additionally, it removes certain environmental checks, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) helps to reduce delays.
What can homeowners build under SB-684 in South Gate?
What are the lot limitations under SB-684?
SB-684 covers properties that are 5 acres or less. When a property is split, each resulting lot should be at least 600 square feet.
What is the size limitation for the new units?
In South Gate where SB-684 applies, new units can be up to 1,750 square feet.
What are the setbacks?
Each unit needs to be set back at least 4 feet from the side and back property lines.
What is the parking requirement under SB-684?
Every unit requires one off-street parking space in South Gate unless it’s within half a mile of a major transit hub or well-connected public transportation 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 South Gate applies to areas where multi-family housing is allowed and to vacant lots in neighborhoods zoned for single-family homes.
How Does SB-1123 or Senate Bill 1123 Impact SB-684?
SB-1123 builds on SB-684 by allowing up to 10 homes on vacant lots in single-family zones, especially those near essential community services. This aims to boost affordable housing options and encourage homeownership in high-need areas.
Do the environmental requirements or overlays on the lot restrict the property development under SB-684?
Yes, environmental rules can limit development under SB-684. Properties located on hazardous waste sites, wetlands, and prime farmland, unless they meet safety standards or have residential clearance or protected wildlife zones are generally off-limits.
Can you build in high-risk CEQA zones?
Maybe. Building in high-risk areas in South Gate may be allowed with conditions:
(A) Construction isn’t allowed in high-fire-risk zones.
(B) Projects near fault lines need to meet earthquake safety guidelines.
(C) Projects in flood zones should comply with federal flood safety rules.
(D) Projects in floodways need a certification to confirm they won’t worsen flooding.
Is it allowed to demolish an affordable unit?
In South Gate, demolishing an affordable housing unit isn’t allowed. Any development project should avoid demolishing or changing housing that is legally protected to keep rent affordable for low to very-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 existing tenants are protected. Development projects cannot demolish or alter:
1. Properties covered by South Gate’s rent control regulations.
2. Properties that were rented at any point in the last 5 years, regardless of whether they’re occupied, vacant, or already demolished.
3. Properties where rental units were taken off the market under 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?
SB-684 projects need a streamlined permit, which speeds up approval by following straightforward local rules. This process bypasses public hearings and lengthy reviews. As long as the project meets zoning and density guidelines, it can be approved more quickly.
What are objective standards?
Objective standards are well-defined local rules for housing projects, covering aspects like zoning, lot size, and design. They avoid extra requirements, such as larger setbacks or additional parking, beyond what's essential.
How much does the permit cost?
Permit fees vary with project size. Starting May 20, 2024, SB-937 allows developers to delay some of these fees until the project is completed and ready for use, making costs easier to manage.
What are the steps to get the permits?
To apply for a permit in South Gate under SB-684, follow these steps:
1. Confirm eligibility. Check that the property meets zoning rules, is under 5 acres, and completes other necessary criteria.
Check zoning eligibility for your property instantly.
2. Submit the Tentative Map. Begin by submitting a tentative map, clearly marking it as part of an SB-684 project.
3. City Review and Response. The City of South Gate will examine your submission and respond within 60 days. If the application is declined, they’ll explain why and suggest any needed adjustments. If you receive no response within 60 days, the application is automatically approved.
4. Request Final Map Approval. Once the tentative map is accepted, you can move forward by submitting it for final approval.
5. Apply for Building Permit. Building permits can be requested before the final map is officially recorded, provided all other conditions are met.
6. Complete the Requirements and File the Final Map. Fulfill any outstanding requirements, then 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 South Gate City?
In South Gate, SB-684 and SB-9 differ in key areas like setback distances, limits on lot and unit sizes, and the particular zoning districts 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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