Governor Newsom has gotten rid of single-family zoning in California and is attempting to boost California’s housing with multiple bills. SB 9 allows single-family lots to be converted into a maximum of four residential units. Newsom’s goal is to provide access to more housing and eliminate neighborhood segregation, a result of zoning. California has had a housing issue for many years, and the governor is hoping that the law will make high income neighborhoods more accessible to people of varying incomes and reduce home prices, which have become extremely high in recent years. This bill overrides local zoning laws and may result in a decrease in single family homes. Some are worried that residential neighborhoods and suburbs will be ruined by the law change, as developers may take advantage of this opportunity to change neighborhoods without considering or consulting residents. Decreasing the amount of single family homes may also change the atmosphere and character of these residential areas.

An additional bill signed by Newsom, SB 10, makes it easier for cities to zone housing for up to 10 units in urban areas. Newsom will also be continuing the goal of SB 8 to eliminate red tape behind housing projects so they can be approved and completed at a quicker pace and make housing more accessible.

It is uncertain what the exact effects will be of Newsom’s changes, but it is certain that it will change the development, purchase, and sale of real estate in California.

Reference: https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/09/16/gov-newsom-abolishes-single-family-zoning-in-california/ for further information. 

Suzanne Dyer

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

CA DRE license # 01054310