SB 9 would not spur much-needed housing construction in a manner that supports local flexibility, decision-making, and community input. State-driven ministerial or by- right housing approval processes fail to recognize the extensive public engagement associated with developing and adopting zoning ordinances and housing elements certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).  SB 9 permits four units on a single-family zoned lot and eliminates sufficient onsite parking requirements, creating safety hazards in neighborhoods. 

The proposed bill has already passed the State Senate and the Assembly Committee on Local Government. SB 9 will next be heard by the Assembly Committee on Housing and Community Development  before being referred to the Assembly Floor.

Below are key takeaways from SB 9:

• Allows up to four (4) units on previously zoned single-family homes.
• Requires the City to approve either or both:
  • A housing development of no more than two units (duplex) in a single-family zone. 
  • Allows for a lot split to take place (a single-family lot becoming two lots).
• Prohibits the City from requiring more than one parking space per unit.
• Takes away from local control by creating more state mandates in a one-size fits all approach to housing.
• Fails to recognize the extensive public engagement process associated with developing and adopting zoning ordinances and housing elements.

Click here to read the proposed SB 9 

Click here to read the City's Opposition Letter to SB 9

Click here to view an informational PowerPoint on SB 9

Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts with their State Legislators. You can voice your concerns about the impacts SB 9 will have in Laguna Niguel by directly contacting your Legislative Representatives. For your convenience, we have created the list below:

Governor Gavin Newsom Contact Governor Newsom Capitol Office: 1303 10th Street, Suite 1173 Sacramento, CA 95814 Tel: (916) 445-2841 Fax: (916) 558-3160

Senator Toni Atkins Author of Senate Bill 9 Capitol Office: State Capitol, Room 205 Sacramento, CA 95814 Tel: (916) 651-4039 Fax: (916) 651-4939 San Diego District Office 1350 Front Street, Suite 4061 San Diego, CA 92101 Tel: (619) 645-3133

Senator Pat Bates Contact Senator Pat Bates Capitol Office: State Capitol, Room 3063 Sacramento, CA 95814 Tel: (916) 651-4036 Fax: (916) 651-4936 Orange County District Office 24031 El Toro Road, Suite 201A Laguna Hills, California 92653 Tel: (949) 598-5850

Assembly Member Laurie Davies Contact Assembly Member Laurie Davies Capitol Office: State Capitol, Room 3141 Sacramento, CA 94249 Tel: (916) 319-2073 Orange County District Office 29122 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 111 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Tel: (949) 347-7301

In order to submit a letter to the California Legislature, one must complete a one-time registration on the California Legislature Position Letter Portal. To register, click here: California Legislature Position Letter Portal Registration

Once you are registered you will receive your log-in information and you will be able to sign-in and submit a position letter for any pending legislation. To sign-in click here: California Legislature Position Letter Portal