Los Angeles changes zoning in rebuilding areas
In 2021, California’s SB 9 became law. It allowed homeowners to split their lots, typically zoned for a single-family home, into up to four housing units.
Following the 2025 fires in Los Angeles, many advocates pushed against this law during the rebuilding process. Housing advocates such as Sonja Trauss, executive director of YIMBY Law, argued the result would help rebuilding residents get more out of their projects.
After a recent battle in the courts, both Malibu and Pasadena agreed to repeal the local ordinances that hindered SB 9 projects in the coming weeks.
Builders behind the rebuilds are supportive, such as Andrew Slocum, CEO of Green Development Company. “allows for the people to hopefully be able to come back and resubmit that application,” said Slocum. “Because most people who are doing SB 9 are the homeowners themselves.”
