Housing: joint living and work quarters and occupied substandard buildings or units.
The legislation provides a mechanism for owners of occupied substandard buildings to applying for a delay in enforcement of up to seven years following a notice to correct violations. This is applicable only to buildings in residentially zoned areas, thus enabling them to address code violations at a pace deemed safe for occupants’ health and safety. By allowing this leeway, the bill addresses some of the immediate pressures faced by landlords, potentially aiding in the stabilization and rehabilitation of urban areas housing various communal living situations.
Senate Bill 906, introduced by Senator Skinner, aims to amend the Health and Safety Code by redefining joint living and work quarters and allowing for potential delays in enforcement for occupied substandard buildings. The bill shifts the definition of joint living and work quarters from a space accommodating a family or up to four unrelated individuals to encompassing any group of persons, regardless of relation. This reflects a more inclusive interpretation of communal living, which is intended to adapt to the increasing demand for diverse housing arrangements in urban settings.
However, this provision has raised concerns among some stakeholders regarding public safety and the potential undermining of health and safety regulations. Critics argue that extending the time frame for compliance could perpetuate unsafe living conditions in substandard buildings. The bill's supporters counter that the flexibility in enforcement aligns with the needs of the arts community, where individuals often struggle with high costs associated with space for both living and working. This reflects a broader concern about the housing crisis affecting artists, artisans, and other low-income residents in urban areas.
The bill also emphasizes the importance of local governments having discretionary power to define areas permissible for joint living and establish occupancy standards. This local control aims to reflect the unique needs and conditions of communities across California, thereby facilitating a more adaptive approach to housing in the face of changing economic and social landscapes.