How does an SB 9 lot split work in Los Angeles?
Ike Mbelu, Principal Partner · Last checked
On this page: The short answer · What state law guarantees · What it means in each city
The short answer
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SB 9
Two units, or two lots with two units each
On a single-family-zoned lot in Los Angeles County, the code says the city must approve two units without a hearing. It must also approve a split into two parcels of at least 1,200 square feet each, the smaller no less than 40 percent of the original. Each new parcel can hold two units. Gov. Code §§65852.21, 66411.7.
Have a lot in LA County? Send us the address and we'll tell you what it holds.
What state law guarantees
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01
The split
Single-family zone only. Two parcels, each at least 1,200 sf, neither under 40 percent of the original. On a 5,000 sf lot that means roughly 2,000 to 3,000 sf each (approximate). §66411.7(a).
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02
Size and setbacks
Local rules cannot keep either unit under 800 sf. Side and rear setbacks are capped at four feet. §65852.21(b)(2).
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03
Parking
At most one space per unit, and none within a half-mile walk of a high-quality transit corridor or major transit stop. §65852.21(c)(1).
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04
The unit cap after a split
A city need not allow more than two units on each new parcel, ADUs included. Under SB 9, a split lot holds up to four units. §66411.7(j).
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05
Who qualifies
No demolishing or altering housing a tenant occupied in the last three years. For a split, the applicant signs an affidavit to live in one unit for three years. §65852.21(a)(3), §66411.7(g).
What it means in each city
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01
Hawthorne
Each new unit at least 800 sf, up to two stories and 22 feet. Front setback 15 feet, side and rear four. On a lot that was not split, two units still leave room for ADUs. HMC Ch. 17.24f.
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02
Torrance
Each new unit up to 800 sf, one story and 16 feet. Front setback 20 feet, side and rear four. One unenclosed space per unit. TMC 92.29.34.
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03
Everywhere else
Lawndale, Gardena, Redondo Beach, Carson and Bellflower apply their own objective standards within the state floor. Adding ADUs instead? See ADU requirements in LA County. Five or more units? See the density bonus.
This is a summary of state and city code, not legal advice. Check the current statute and your city's SB 9 ordinance for your site.
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