Senate Bill 9 (SB 9), also called the California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (“HOME”) Act, is a California state housing law that was introduced, and took effect on January 1, 2022 allowing homeowners to split their existing single-family residential property lot into two separate lots. They will be able to build up to two new houses on each of these separate lots. Total for up to four units. The bill explained Two-Unit Developments and Urban Lot Split Parcel Maps that meet eligibility criteria for single-family residential use. Los Angeles City Planning has a newly revised Implementation Memorandum effective March 16, 2023. 

  • Any Key Benefits? 

    • SB 9 or also called “Duplex Bill'' is one part of efforts in addressing California’s housing crisis while providing a wide variety of development opportunities and options for homeowners to maximize and subdivide their single-family residential lot. A permit must be issued by the LADBS (Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety) to build additional residential units in the same property, up to four units— a venue for homeowners to optimize their property’s value potential in addition to contributing in the maintenance of their community’s character.

  •  What are the Setback Requirements?

    • Setback for a project site’s front yard will be determined per zoning standards. Setbacks are not required for existing structures, and for rear and side yards, setbacks of up to four feet are required.

  • Are There Things to Consider?

    • Homeowners must find out if their property qualifies for SB 9. Deciding on the design of a subdivided lot, estimating costs, and understanding the duration of permit processing are some of the key factors to consider. It is always recommended for homeowners to do their due diligence and research about this new home development law before deciding to embark on their project. As with any project, there can be challenges along the way, however, when homeowners are armed with sufficient knowledge and help from a design expert— procure exciting and targeted results.

ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) 

  • ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) are an option for counties, cities and homeowners to utilize their existing properties to maximize housing capacity. They are secondary dwelling units with their own independent living spaces or facilities for one or more individuals. 

An ADU can be:

  • Detached, whereby the unit is separated from the primary residential house

  • Attached, whereby the unit is attached to the primary residential house

  • Repurposed Existing Space, whereby an existing space such as a  playroom, master bedroom or a garage within the primary residential house is converted into an independent living unit

Benefits of ADUs

  • ADUs provide homeowners an affordable option to design and  build a type of living space due to the reason that they are not required to pay for new land property, or construct a major new infrastructure. 

  • ADUs can provide homeowners an extra source of income

  • ADUs can be built with cost-effective wood frame construction which is more affordable to homeowners.

  • ADUs can be used as a living space for  extended family members or relatives allowing one another to be near each other but still have their rights to privacy

  • ADUs are perfect for new couples, small families, young adults, and seniors.

  • ADUs provide homeowners the much-needed flexibility in sharing independent living areas with their senior family members so they can age in place while being near them as they require more care.

JADUs (Junior ADUs/Accessory Dwelling Units)

  • If you already have an ADU and you are considering expanding your living spaces or leasing a rental property for extra income, a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) might be a great option.

  • A JADU is built within the walls of an existing or proposed single-family home no larger than 500 square feet. Unlike other ADUs, owner occupancy is required either in the main house or in the JADU. Central systems can be shared such as a basic kitchen with small plug-in appliances, and a bathroom shared with the primary residential dwelling. This option helps to reduce development and utility costs benefiting the property owner.

Frequently Asked Questions - Converting a Garage to an ADU

  • What is the required size of an ADU?

    Either an attached or detached garage can be converted into an ADU, but they are subject to different regulations. It is important to take into account that an attached ADU must not exceed the size of the garage being converted. Some cities, such as in California, allow standalone (detached) ADUs to be up to 1,200 sq ft, but the size may be increased up to 150 sq ft,  and 16 ft height despite the size of the primary dwelling. Timelines for the permitting process and budget will vary depending on the size of the conversion project.

  • What are the setback requirements?

    Under the law, required setbacks may not exceed 4 feet from the rear and side property lines of attached and detached ADUs for fire safety, privacy and respect for neighboring buildings or other residences. A detached ADU should be built 10 ft away from the primary residence. 

  • Is owner occupancy required?

    There are no owner-occupancy requirements for an ADU. This means that property owners can build an ADU without the need to live either in the main house or the ADU.

  • Should a parking space be provided?

    For a newly constructed ADU, parking is not required when that parking space must be removed to make space for the new ADU.           

Converting Garage Into a Living Space or an ADU

Many homeowners wonder how they can make use of extra space in their property lot, or convert their garages into a living space or an ADU. There are many garage conversion ideas to choose from:

  • A rental space with a bedroom, bathroom, and a small kitchen that can maximize the owner’s ROI. 

  • A game room, gym, private living place for elderly parents or extended family members, home office, or a guest house.

When making this decision, it is advisable for property owners to do some research if their project is feasible. Existing attached or detached garage conversions must comply with the building code, fire code, and T24 energy code in order to obtain the necessary permits for inspection and construction. Complying to building and safety state and city rules can help to avoid issues further down the road. Because converting a garage into an ADU can sometimes be a rigorous process, it is always wise to seek professional help to save you time and offer guidance on local building laws and regulations, and to assist you with your project.