California Senate Bill 1069 for Garage Conversion

Are you looking to convert your garage in Los Angeles and not sure if it's legal? Or maybe you tried to convert your garage in the past and your local Los Angeles city denied you. Whether you are a first time or repeat garage converter this article will give toy the peace of mind of understanding the legality behind converting your Los Angeles home garage and hows it's become easier than ever! In the past year, California Senate Bill 1069 (SB-1069) was approved by the governor on September 27, 2018. What's so great about this bill? Well, Senate Bill #1069 allows homeowners to convert a garage into a living space legally, and more easily.  In years past it was difficult, not only in Los Angeles but all of California. One of the main reasons homeowners were denied was the previous Planning and Zoning Law that classified converted garages as 'second unit on the property. This new bill, on the other hand, changes how we classify garage conversions and the specifications that go into the process.

The following excerpt is taken from Senate Bill 1069, and the information was provided by, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160SB1069

Jr. Junior ADU/Granny Flat or Multifamily

Where can you put a 2nd ADU unit? You can build a junior ADU in a duplex, triplex, and fourplex. Consult with your local planning and building office to find out how big you can build it.

 “The Planning and Zoning Law authorizes the ordinance for the creation of 2nd units in single-family and multifamily residential zones to include specified provisions regarding areas where accessory dwelling units may be located, standards, including the imposition of parking standards, and low density. Existing law, when a local agency has not adopted an ordinance governing 2nd units as so described, requires the local agency to approve or disapprove the application ministerially, as provided.

Okay, I'm sure you are wondering, ``What does this mean for me?' Well, in simple terms that you can now more easily convert your Los Angeles garage into a living space. The Senate Bill lessens the restrictions in converting your garage, meaning as long as it's just converting your garage into a living space and you follow building codes your chances of being approved and getting the garage you want just went from 50/50 to 90%. I'm going with 90% because each city has its own local laws that could stand in the way, but as long as it's a garage to living space conversion and you meet all the criteria, then you're gold. Please note that you can even build an ADU IF you do not already have a structure on your property. The one ADU unit rule still applies, just because they are making it easier in hopes to increase housing doesn't mean it's a free pass to fill your property with ADUs. 

Don't forget in your hurry to convert your garage that you still need permits and licensing.  Easier here doesn't mean you can just do it. There are still building codes that need to be followed, to ensure the safety of the area. Once you have secured the required documents you are ready to convert your Los Angeles garage, be it for more living space or to rent out and save for your dream vacation.

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