Newsom Signs Order Limiting State Duplex Law in LA County Burn Zones

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order allowing local governments in Los Angeles County, including Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Altadena, to limit development under Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) in high fire severity zones affected by recent wildfires. SB 9, a 2021 law, permits property owners to build up to four housing units on lots previously designated for single-family homes, but local officials expressed concerns that this could increase population density, strain infrastructure, and complicate evacuation efforts in fire-prone areas. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilwoman Traci Park both opposed SB 9’s application in these burn scar communities, warning it could fundamentally alter safety and lead to an unforeseen surge in housing density. The executive order remains in effect while the state of emergency is active and aims to prevent further challenges to ingress and egress during wildfire emergencies. This decision follows advocacy from local leaders who highlighted the chaotic evacuations during the Palisades Fire and the potential dangers of adding more housing units in vulnerable zones. The order reflects a balance between the state's housing goals and the urgent need to protect communities rebuilding after devastating wildfires.