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Senate Bill 9(SB-9) Two Unit Development

 

Two Unit Development 

A Two Unit Development (TUD) is a type of residential project that involves constructing two separate living units on a single property. These units can either be part of a larger structure or exist as separate buildings, depending on the design and local zoning laws. The goal is typically to maximize the use of land while providing more housing options in areas with high demand.

 

Here are some more details:

1.Types Of Two Unit Developments

Duplex: A single building split into two units, with separate entrances for each unit. The units may be side-by-side or stacked (one on top of the other).

Detached Units: Two completely separate homes on the same lot, each with its own foundation and structure. These can be placed side-by-side or in a more spread-out configuration.

Semi-Detached Homes: Two homes that share a common wall but are otherwise independent of each other, often appearing like two separate houses.

2.Zoning and Permits 

Local zoning laws determine whether a Two Unit Development is allowed in a given area. These laws regulate things like the number of units permitted, the building’s size, and its height.

 

In residential areas, zoning codes may dictate whether you can build a duplex, a pair of detached homes, or even convert a large single-family home into two separate units.

 

Developers usually need special permits and approvals for such projects, especially if they require altering the property’s layout or increasing its density.

 

3.Benefits of Two Unit Developments

Increased Housing Density: TUDs make better use of available land in cities where space is limited, which is increasingly important as urban populations grow.

Affordability: They can offer more affordable housing options in areas where single-family homes are expensive or difficult to obtain.

Income Generation: If you live in one of the units, you can rent out the other. This can provide a source of income for homeowners, especially in high-demand rental markets.

Flexibility: They offer flexibility for families, such as housing extended family members (e.g., parents or adult children) in a separate unit while still maintaining privacy.

4.Considerations for Developers and Homeowners

Design and Layout: Proper design is key to ensuring the units are functional and desirable. For example, both units should have adequate privacy and sufficient space for occupants. The layout should also be optimized to avoid conflicts (like shared driveways or uneven access to outdoor spaces).

Parking and Amenities: Local zoning laws will often include parking requirements for Two Unit Developments. Developers must ensure there are sufficient spaces for both units. Also, consideration of things like outdoor areas, landscaping, and utilities becomes important in the planning phase.

Neighborhood Compatibility: It’s important that a TUD doesn’t negatively impact the character of the neighborhood. Local councils or planning departments will review the project to ensure it fits with the area’s existing infrastructure and aesthetics.

5.Investment Potential

Return on Investment (ROI): Two Unit Developments can be a good investment for builders and investors because they typically allow for higher returns than single-family homes. By constructing two units on the same plot, developers can often sell or rent out both units, leading to greater profits compared to developing a single home.

Rental Income: Homeowners can offset their mortgage payments by renting out one of the units, which is a popular option in cities with high rental demand.

 

 

 

6.Examples of Two Unit Developments

Urban Areas: In cities, TUDs are often used to increase housing stock without needing to acquire additional land. In places like Los Angeles or LA county , where housing is in high demand, Two Unit Developments can provide much-needed homes.

Suburban and Rural Areas: In some suburban or rural locations, TUDs are less common but can still be a useful tool for increasing housing density, particularly where large plots of land are available.

In Summary:

A Two Unit Development (TUD) is about efficiently using available land to create two separate homes or living units. These can be duplexes, detached homes, or semi-detached, depending on the design and local zoning. TUDs are popular for their ability to increase housing density, provide rental income, and make better use of land in urban areas.

 

Under California’s SB 9 (Senate Bill 9), which facilitates the development of two residential units on a single-family lot, a unit that is less than 800 square feet can exceed the Residential Floor Area (RFA) limit of the property.

 

This provision is designed to encourage the construction of smaller, affordable housing units in areas where increasing density is a priority. In such cases, the small units are exempt from the typical RFA restrictions, allowing for more flexibility in how the property is developed.

 

However, this exemption applies only if the unit is under 800 square feet and the overall development complies with other aspects of the SB 9 guidelines, such as setback requirements, parking regulations, and other zoning rules. This provision makes it easier for property owners and developers to maximize the use of available space and increase housing supply, particularly in high-demand urban areas.

 

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