SB 9 is a California housing law that lets homeowners add more homes on single-family lots. It also allows some parcels to be split into two. The idea is to support more housing in areas that already have roads, parks, and services.
The process is faster than many traditional permits because SB 9 relies on “ministerial approval.” This means cities review your plans using clear rules instead of long hearings. It saves time for many property owners.
However, not every lot qualifies. SB 9 has strict eligibility criteria. Many parcels meet the zoning requirement but fail because of environmental or historic limits. So it is important to understand where the law applies and what could block approval.
Here is a quick overview of what SB 9 tries to achieve:
Increase housing options in existing neighborhoods.
Allow homeowners to create two units on one lot.
Support lot splits when certain standards are met.
Reduce delays created by discretionary review.
Quick Look at SB 9 Goals
| Goal | What It Means for Homeowners |
|---|---|
| Add housing in single-family zones | You may add one more unit or consider a lot split |
| Simple review process | Fewer hearings and faster decisions |
| More flexibility | Smaller homes or duplex-style layouts become possible |
| Protect tenants and historic areas | Some parcels remain off-limits |
Core Eligibility Requirements for SB 9
SB 9 has several baseline requirements. These rules decide whether a parcel even qualifies for review. If a lot fails at this stage, the city cannot approve an SB 9 project.
The two big requirements are zoning and location. Then there are additional rules about the parcel’s condition, history, and environmental status.
Let’s break down the essentials in plain terms.
Zoning: The Property Must Be in a Single-Family Residential Zone
Your parcel must be zoned for single-family homes. Cities label these zones differently. Some use “R-1,” while others use local names. But the meaning is the same. The area is meant for one main home on each lot.
If your property is not in a single-family zone, then SB 9 does not apply. Multi-family, mixed-use, or commercial zones are not eligible.
Cities usually publish zoning maps. Checking that map is the first step.
Location: The Parcel Must Sit in an Urbanized Area
SB 9 only applies to lots in an “urbanized area” or “urban cluster.” These terms come from federal mapping. They cover places with established neighborhoods and built infrastructure.
Most cities in California fall into this category. But some edge-of-town or semi-rural parcels do not.
Here is a simple way to think about it:
| Location Type | SB 9 Eligible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urbanized area | Yes | Most parcels in California cities |
| Urban cluster | Often yes | Depends on boundaries |
| Rural zone | No | SB 9 does not cover rural land |
| Outlying parcels with limited services | No | Fails infrastructure expectation |
Restrictions and Conditions That Can Block SB 9 Eligibility
Even if your parcel is in the right zone and location, it may still be disqualified. SB 9 has several land-use, environmental, and legal protections built into the law.
These rules help protect sensitive land, historic resources, and tenants.
Cities must review these limits before they approve any SB 9 project.
Environmental and Land-Use Restrictions
Your property may not qualify if it sits in a sensitive or protected area. Some examples include:
Prime farmland
Wetlands
Conservation land
Habitat for protected species
Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Floodways or certain flood-risk areas
Hazardous waste sites
These restrictions help reduce risk and protect public safety.
Historic and Affordable Housing Restrictions
SB 9 does not allow development that harms important cultural or affordable housing assets. This includes:
Homes in historic districts
Designated historic buildings
Deed-restricted affordable homes
Rent-controlled homes
Properties with tenants in the last three years
If any of these conditions apply, the parcel is usually ineligible.
SB 9 Housing Approvals by City 🏘️
Data Source: JDJ Consulting
What Is SB 9 and Why It Matters for California Homeowners
SB 9 is a California housing law passed in 2021. It lets qualified homeowners split their lot or add another home on the same property. The goal is simple. The state wants to help ease the housing shortage by allowing more small-scale homes in existing neighborhoods.
For many property owners, SB 9 feels like a big opportunity. It offers a way to build more housing, create rental income, or support multigenerational living. But the law is not a free pass. Cities still have rules. And you must meet the eligibility criteria before you can start.
Below is a quick overview of what SB 9 allows:
Urban lot splits
You may split one residential lot into two legal parcels.Two-unit development
You can build up to two homes on a qualifying lot.Both options on some properties
In some cases, you may build two units on each newly created lot.
Even though SB 9 is statewide, each city can add its own standards. These local rules must stay “objective,” but they can limit things like design, parking, and building size.
Why SB 9 Has Strict Eligibility Rules
SB 9 changes long-standing zoning patterns. Because of this, the state added rules to avoid misuse. The law tries to balance two goals:
Increase housing supply
Protect neighborhoods from overdevelopment
This is why eligibility rules exist. They make sure the property is safe, suitable for development, and not part of a protected area.
SB 9 Eligibility Criteria: Core Requirements Explained
To qualify for SB 9, your property must meet the basic requirements in the California Government Code. These rules determine whether your lot is even allowed to apply.
Here are the main criteria in simple terms.
1. The property must be in an urban area
The lot must be located:
In an urbanized area, or
In an urban cluster recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Almost all city neighborhoods qualify. Most rural or remote areas do not.
2. Your lot must be zoned for single-family homes
The law only applies to parcels zoned for single-family residential use. If your lot is zoned commercial, industrial, or multi-family, it does not qualify.
3. The property cannot be in a protected zone
Some areas are completely off-limits under SB 9. Examples include:
High fire hazard severity zones (unless certain mitigation standards are met).
Hazardous waste sites.
Floodplains without proper safety measures.
Prime farmland or protected agricultural land.
Land with conservation easements.
If your property falls into one of these categories, you may not qualify.
4. The existing home cannot be tenant-occupied (in some situations)
SB 9 includes strong protections for renters. You may not use SB 9 if:
A tenant has lived in the home in the last 3 years.
The home is under rent control.
The property was withdrawn from the rental market under the Ellis Act within the last 15 years.
5. No historic district properties
Homes in a local or state historic district are excluded. City registers and state databases list these properties.
Table: Core SB 9 Eligibility Requirements (Quick Overview)
| Requirement | Does It Affect Eligibility? | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Urban location | Yes | Property must be in an urbanized area. |
| Single-family zoning | Yes | Lot must be zoned for single-family use. |
| Not in a protected zone | Yes | Property cannot be in sensitive or restricted areas. |
| No tenant protections violated | Yes | Property cannot displace tenants or rent-controlled occupants. |
| Not a historic site | Yes | Historic properties are excluded. |
Understanding SB 9 Lot Split Requirements
If you plan to split your lot under SB 9, additional rules apply. These rules help cities manage density and maintain fair property development.
SB 9 Eligibility Process Flowchart 📝
Source: JDJ Consulting
Here is what you need to know.
Minimum lot size after the split
Each resulting parcel must be at least 1,200 square feet. Some cities allow slightly smaller sizes, but only if both lots are still “usable” for development.
Split must be roughly equal
SB 9 requires that the two parcels be about the same size. One lot cannot be less than 40% of the total original lot area.
Only one SB 9 split per property
You cannot split:
The same lot more than once, or
Adjacent lots owned by the same person at the same time.
This rule prevents people from creating multiple micro-lots.
Owner occupancy declaration
If you pursue a lot split, you must sign an affidavit confirming that you plan to live in one of the homes for at least three years. This rule applies only to lot splits, not two-unit developments.
Table: SB 9 Lot Split Rules
| Lot Split Rule | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum lot size | 1,200 sq. ft. | Some cities may set slightly different standards. |
| Size distribution | 40% minimum | One parcel cannot be smaller than 40% of original lot. |
| Number of splits | One only | No repeated or serial lot splits. |
| Owner occupancy | 3-year affidavit | Required for lot splits only. |
SB 9 Two-Unit Development Requirements
If you are not splitting your lot, you may still qualify to build up to two homes on your property. This option is often easier because it does not require an owner-occupancy promise or a parcel split.
Below are the main rules for SB 9 two-unit projects.
You can build two units on one lot
This can include:
Two new detached homes
A new home plus the existing home
A duplex, if allowed by your city
A mix of attached and detached units
Cities must review these projects through a ministerial process, meaning no public hearing or discretionary review.
No short-term rentals
SB 9 units must be used for long-term housing. Cities require each home to be rented for more than 30 days. This prevents the units from becoming vacation rentals.
Cities cannot apply subjective design rules
Local governments may set standards such as:
Height limits
Building setbacks
Parking requirements
Lot coverage rules
However, these rules must be objective, written, and measurable. Cities cannot require neighborhood consent or subjective design approvals.
Impact fees still apply
You may need to pay fees for:
Utilities
Sewer and water upgrades
Traffic or infrastructure impacts
School fees
Park or community fees
The fees vary widely by city, so it is best to check local guidelines early.
Setback and Height Requirements Under SB 9
Setbacks control how close you can build to property lines. SB 9 allows very flexible setbacks, but each city can add its own standards.
Here is what the law says.
Four-foot side and rear setbacks
Cities must allow 4-foot side and rear setbacks for new SB 9 units. Some cities allow even less for conversions or existing structures.
Front setbacks follow local zoning rules
Most cities keep the original front setback, such as:
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
This helps maintain street consistency.
Height limits vary
Height limits depend on the city. Many allow:
16 to 30 feet for detached units
Two stories, depending on local rules
Cities may not set rules that make building “impossible,” but limits still apply.
When SB 9 Does Not Apply
Even if your property meets zoning and location requirements, SB 9 may still not apply depending on the circumstances. These limitations are meant to protect sensitive areas and prevent harmful development.
Are You Eligible for SB 9? 🤔
Answer a few questions to check your eligibility.
Here are the common reasons a homeowner may be disqualified.
Properties in disaster-prone areas
If your lot is in:
High fire hazard zones
Floodways without mitigation
Landslide-prone areas
you may be excluded unless specific safety standards are met.
Lots with protected tenants
The law prevents displacement. If a renter lived in the home anytime in the last 3 years, the project may not qualify.
Homes under affordable-housing restrictions
Properties under:
Rent control
Affordable housing covenants
Deed restrictions
cannot use SB 9 to add or replace units.
Lots recently used for rentals
The state added a protection known as the “no recent rental” rule.” If the home was withdrawn from the rental market under the Ellis Act within the last 15 years, SB 9 is not allowed.
How Local Cities Interpret SB 9 (Examples of City Variations)
SB 9 is a state law, but each California city still applies it in its own way. Cities cannot block SB 9, yet they can set objective standards that shape how your project looks or fits on the property.
Because of this, homeowners often see different rules from one city to another. Below are common examples of how cities interpret SB 9.
Different minimum lot sizes
Some cities require your original lot to be a certain size before you can split it. Common minimums include:
5,000 square feet
6,000 square feet
7,500 square feet
These rules change how feasible a project may be.
Parking rules vary
Most cities require one parking space per unit unless exceptions apply. Parking is usually not required when:
Your property is close to a transit stop
You convert an existing structure
You are in a historic or designated parking-exempt area
Parking rules are one of the most common areas where cities differ.
Design standards and building styles
Cities can require objective rules for:
Exterior materials
Roofing types
Window layouts
Color palettes
Landscaping
Building heights
These rules must be clear and measurable. Cities cannot ask for neighborhood reviews or subjective approvals.
Local review timelines
SB 9 projects must go through a ministerial review, which is faster. However, timelines may vary:
Some cities respond within 30 days
Others take 60 days
A few take longer due to staffing or workload
Although it is faster than a standard planning process, delays still happen.
Owner-Occupancy Rules for SB 9 Lot Splits
Not all SB 9 projects require the owner to live on the property. However, if you plan to split your lot, you must sign an owner-occupancy affidavit.
Three-year residency rule
You must confirm that you will live in one of the homes for at least three years. This rule was designed to prevent large investors from buying multiple lots and splitting them for profit.
The residency rule does not apply if:
You are only building two units (no split)
You convert an existing structure
You are doing an addition only
It applies only to SB 9 urban lot splits.
Common questions homeowners ask
Do I have to live there before the split?
No. The rule applies to the future occupancy after approval.
Can I rent out the other unit?
Yes, as long as the rental is long-term (more than 30 days).
What if I sell the property?
The affidavit does not require you to stay if you sell, but buyers may face restrictions depending on city interpretation.
Impact of SB 9 on Existing Structures and Utilities
Many homeowners want to know how SB 9 affects their current home, garage, or utility lines. The law has guidelines that help cities determine what can stay and what must be upgraded.
You may keep your existing home
SB 9 does not require you to demolish your current house. Most projects keep the existing structure and add a second unit.
Conversions are allowed
You may convert:
Garages
Basements
Storage spaces
Detached accessory buildings
Cities often allow these conversions if they meet safety standards.
Utility connections
Cities may require:
Separate meters
Upgraded water or sewer lines
New utility easements
Fire-flow improvements in some areas
These upgrades increase safety but can raise project costs.
Fire safety standards
If your property is near a fire-hazard area, cities may require:
Sprinklers
Ember-resistant vents
Fire-safe landscaping
Widened driveways for emergency access
These rules depend on your specific location.
SB 9 Key Points 🏡
-
1️⃣Lot Splitting Allowed: Split single-family lots into two lots if zoning permits.
-
2️⃣Two Units per Lot: Build up to two residential units per split lot.
-
3️⃣Owner Occupancy: At least one of the units must be owner-occupied for 3 years.
-
4️⃣Affordable Housing Impact: Streamlines creation of more housing units in California cities.
-
5️⃣Approval Timeline: Most eligible applications are approved ministerially within 60 days.
Data Source: JDJ Consulting
Common Myths and Misunderstandings About SB 9
SB 9 is still new, so misunderstandings are common. Many homeowners hear mixed information from neighbors, online forums, or outdated city documents. Here are the myths you should ignore and the facts you should know.
Myth 1: SB 9 lets you build as many units as you want
Fact:
The law allows up to two units on a qualifying lot. Or, after a lot split, up to two units on each lot. You cannot build four units on a single parcel without splitting it.
Myth 2: Cities can block SB 9 if neighbors complain
Fact:
Cities must approve SB 9 projects through a ministerial process. This means:
No public hearings
No discretionary review
No neighbor approval needed
Cities can only deny a project if it creates a clear health or safety risk backed by evidence.
Myth 3: You must demolish your existing home
Fact:
You may keep your home and add another unit. Most SB 9 projects do exactly that.
Myth 4: SB 9 overrides all zoning rules
Fact:
SB 9 allows flexibility, but not total freedom. Cities may still require:
Basic setbacks
Building height limits
Lot coverage rules
Parking requirements
These standards must be objective, but they still apply.
Myth 5: SB 9 is only for developers
Fact:
The law was designed primarily for individual homeowners. The owner-occupancy rule for lot splits helps prevent investor-driven mass development.
Benefits of SB 9 for Homeowners
SB 9 offers several advantages for people who want to use their property in a smarter way. These benefits depend on your long-term plans, but most homeowners see the value quickly.
1. Ability to create more housing
You can add one or two small homes for:
Adult children
Retiring parents
Extended family
Long-term renters
This helps many families live closer while still having privacy.
2. Potential long-term rental income
SB 9 units must be long-term rentals, not short-term vacation homes. Still, this can create steady supplemental income.
3. Higher property value
Many SB 9 projects lead to:
Larger homes
More functional layouts
Additional units
This often increases market value.
4. Easier review process
Because the approval is ministerial, you avoid:
Planning commission hearings
Neighborhood objections
Discretionary delays
This makes the process simpler compared to typical development.
5. Flexible building options
You can choose:
Attached units
Detached units
Conversions
Duplex-style designs
SB 9 gives far more freedom than traditional single-family zoning.
Challenges and Limitations of SB 9
SB 9 offers many benefits, but it also has limits you must consider. Knowing these helps you plan your project with realistic expectations.
1. High construction costs
Building a new home or splitting land requires money. Costs may include:
Architecture
Engineering
Permits
Soil testing
Utility upgrades
Construction
These expenses can add up fast.
2. City variability
Every city interprets SB 9 differently. Some cities make the process smooth. Others add stricter standards that increase cost or reduce flexibility.
3. Utility upgrades
Older neighborhoods often need:
New sewer laterals
Larger water lines
Updated electrical capacity
These upgrades can delay or increase project costs.
4. Lot size constraints
A small lot may qualify for SB 9, but it may not offer enough usable space for two comfortable units.
5. Environmental and hazard restrictions
If your property is in a restricted or sensitive area, you may face:
Fire safety rules
Flood control rules
FEMA requirements
Environmental reviews
These can limit what you can build.
Step-by-Step Process for Determining SB 9 Eligibility
If you want to know whether your property qualifies for SB 9, it helps to follow a simple step-by-step process. This makes it easier to confirm eligibility before spending money on plans or consultants.
Speak with our experts about SB 9 and housing development.
Below is a clear breakdown you can use.
Step 1: Check if your property is in an urbanized area
Start by confirming your address is in an urban:
Urbanized area, or
Urban cluster
Almost all cities in California qualify. Rural areas do not.
You can check this using the U.S. Census Bureau’s online map or your city’s planning department.
Step 2: Confirm your zoning designation
Next, check the zoning for your parcel. Your lot must be zoned for single-family residential use.
You can verify this by:
Looking up your parcel on your city’s zoning map
Calling the planning department
Checking your property tax records
If you see zoning labels like R-1, RS, or SF, you are likely in a qualifying zone.
Step 3: Review hazard zone maps
SB 9 does not apply to certain protected areas. Look for restrictions related to:
Fire hazard severity zones
Floodplains
Earthquake fault zones
Landslide areas
Hazardous waste sites
Your city can tell you whether your lot falls under these categories.
Step 4: Confirm tenant history
If a tenant lived in your home within the last three years, you may not qualify. The rule protects renters from displacement.
To check this:
Review past lease or rental records
Confirm whether your property has ever had rent-control status
Check if the property was withdrawn under the Ellis Act
No tenant-related issues? Then you are still eligible.
Step 5: Check whether your home is in a historic district
SB 9 excludes properties:
In local historic districts
Listed on state or federal historic registers
Your city has maps that show these districts.
Step 6: Evaluate your lot size
If you plan a lot split, confirm:
Your lot can support two parcels at least 1,200 sq ft each
One parcel will not drop below 40% of the total lot area
If the lot is too small, you may still add a second unit without splitting.
Step 7: Ask about local SB 9 rules
Cities often have:
Local SB 9 ordinances
Objective design standards
Parking rules
Setback requirements
Height limits
These rules may change your design or project cost.
Step 8: Talk to a consultant or planner
Once you confirm the basics, it helps to:
Speak with a local planner
Work with a consultant
Request a zoning letter
Ask for a parcel review
This ensures there are no surprises before you begin the formal process.
How to Prepare for an SB 9 Application
Even though SB 9 approvals are ministerial, you still need proper documents and plans. Preparing early makes the process smoother and helps you avoid delays.
Here is what most homeowners need.
1. A site plan
A clear site plan shows:
Property boundaries
Setbacks
Utility locations
Existing structures
Proposed units
Many cities require a professional draft.
2. Unit designs or building plans
You will need drawings that include:
Floor plans
Elevations
Roof layouts
Building heights
Exterior materials
Cities must follow objective standards, so plans must be clear and consistent.
3. Survey or parcel map (for lot splits)
Lot splits require:
A professional survey
A tentative parcel map
A final parcel map
These help the city confirm the new lot lines.
4. Utility plan
A utility plan may include:
New water lines
Sewer connections
Electrical upgrades
Gas lines
Drainage paths
Some cities require separate meters.
5. Environmental documents
Most SB 9 projects do not require full environmental review. However, hazard areas may require:
Fire mitigation reports
Flood control documents
Geologic studies
It depends on your location.
6. Application forms and fees
Most cities ask for:
SB 9 application forms
Affidavits
Declarations
Permit fees
Impact fees
Fees vary widely from one city to another.
How Long SB 9 Approvals Usually Take
Timelines differ, but most SB 9 reviews are faster than traditional permitting.
Typical timelines:
30–60 days for ministerial review
60–90 days if corrections are needed
90–120 days for lot splits
3–6 months if utility upgrades or surveys cause delays
The process is predictable, but each step depends on how prepared you are before submitting.
Does SB 9 Make Sense for Every Homeowner? (Pros, Cons, and Practical Factors)
SB 9 can be a great option for many property owners. Still, it is not the right fit for every situation. Understanding the practical factors helps you make a smart decision before investing time or money.
Below are the key points to consider.
Pros of Using SB 9
SB 9 offers several real benefits that many homeowners value.
1. More housing options for family needs
You can add a unit for:
Parents
Adult children
Relatives
Long-term guests
This helps families stay close without sharing the same home.
2. Long-term rental income
A second unit can provide monthly rental income. Since SB 9 units must be long-term rentals, you get stable, predictable tenants.
3. Higher property value
Adding units or splitting your lot can increase:
Market value
Resale options
Future rental opportunities
Many buyers like homes with flexible land use.
4. Faster approvals
Because approvals are ministerial, you avoid hearings and delays. This makes the process more predictable than typical development.
5. Flexible building choices
You can choose:
Two detached units
A duplex
A conversion
A mix of attached and detached units
This flexibility helps you match your budget and property shape.
Cons and Challenges to Consider
SB 9 has limitations that may affect your decision.
1. High development costs
Even small homes come with costs such as:
Engineering
Architectural plans
Construction
Site grading
Utility upgrades
These can add up quickly.
2. Lot size or shape constraints
A narrow or irregular lot may qualify on paper but still be difficult to design.
3. Local rules can add restrictions
Cities may have:
Height limits
Parking rules
Lot coverage caps
Strict design standards
These may affect your layout or project budget.
4. Utility upgrades
Older neighborhoods sometimes require:
Larger water lines
Sewer lateral replacements
New utility easements
These upgrades can be expensive.
5. Not allowed in protected zones
If your lot is in a hazard or environmental zone, SB 9 may not apply.
Financial Considerations Before Starting an SB 9 Project
Building new units or splitting a lot is a financial decision as much as a housing decision. Here are the main financial factors homeowners should review before moving ahead.
1. Construction costs
Costs vary depending on:
Unit size
Foundation type
Material choices
Local labor rates
Small units can still cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to build.
2. Permit and impact fees
Cities charge fees for:
Building permits
School fees
Park fees
Traffic and infrastructure fees
These can range widely depending on your city.
3. Utility connection fees
Expect costs for:
Sewer tap-in
Water connections
Electrical upgrades
Gas lines
These may be required even for small units.
4. Financing needs
You may explore:
Home equity loans
Construction loans
Cash-out refinancing
Private financing options
The best option depends on your credit, equity, and long-term plans.
5. Insurance and taxes
Adding new units may change:
Your property insurance premiums
Your property taxes
Your coverage needs
Check with your insurance provider early.
Environmental and Infrastructure Factors to Consider
Certain environmental conditions affect SB 9 eligibility and construction. Reviewing these factors early helps you avoid unexpected delays.
1. Fire hazard zones
If your property is near wildfire-prone areas, cities may require:
Sprinkler systems
Fire-resistant materials
Clear access for emergency vehicles
Some areas are fully excluded from SB 9.
2. Floodplains
Properties in flood zones may need:
Elevated foundations
Drainage plans
Floodproof building materials
These can change your construction budget.
3. Soil and grading issues
Lots with slopes or unstable soil may require:
Geological reports
Retaining walls
Special engineering
These add cost and time.
4. Utility placement
If you plan a lot split, the new parcel must have:
Proper access
Utility routes
Sewer options
This affects your design and layout.
Case Study: Successful SB 9 Lot Split 🏡
In 2024, a property owner in San Diego successfully split a single-family lot under SB 9, creating two separate residential units. This project demonstrates the streamlined approval process and potential benefits of SB 9 for homeowners and developers.
Project Highlights:
- • Original Lot Size: 2,500 sq ft
- • Units Created: 2 new residential units
- • Approval Timeline: 55 days (ministerial approval)
- • Owner Occupancy: Owner lived in one unit, rented the second
- • Community Impact: Increased housing supply without major zoning disputes
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ SB 9 allows lot splits with minimal bureaucratic hurdles.
- ✅ Homeowners can generate rental income or expand family housing.
- ✅ Projects must meet minimum lot size and owner-occupancy requirements.
Source: JDJ Consulting
How to Check If Your Property Qualifies for SB 9: Tools, Maps, and Resources
Before you invest time or money, it’s important to confirm whether your property qualifies for SB 9. Using the right tools and resources makes this process easier and reduces surprises.
1. City Zoning Maps
Your city’s zoning map is the first place to check. These maps show:
Single-family residential zones (R-1, RS, SF)
Multi-family, commercial, or industrial zones
Tip: Most cities post interactive maps online. You can enter your address to see your lot’s zoning designation.
2. Urbanized Area and Urban Cluster Maps
SB 9 only applies to lots in urbanized areas or urban clusters. Use federal resources like:
U.S. Census Bureau maps
State housing department GIS maps
This confirms whether your property meets the location requirement.
3. Environmental Hazard Maps
Check if your property is in a sensitive or restricted zone:
Fire hazard severity zones
Floodplains or floodways
Landslide-prone areas
Hazardous waste sites
Most city planning departments or county GIS systems provide free hazard maps.
4. Historic District Listings
Historic protections may block SB 9 eligibility.
To check:
Local city historic registries
State Office of Historic Preservation listings
Federal National Register of Historic Places
Properties in historic districts may require special review or may be ineligible.
5. Local SB 9 Ordinances
Cities may publish SB 9 rules online. These include:
Setbacks
Lot coverage
Parking requirements
Height limits
Design standards
Review these before creating plans to avoid costly surprises.
6. Planning Department Consultation
Even if all maps look clear, a quick call or appointment with the planning department can help confirm eligibility. Ask about:
Parcel-specific restrictions
Local interpretations of SB 9
Required documents and fees
This step often saves time and prevents unexpected denials.
Checklist: SB 9 Eligibility Quick Reference
Here’s a simple checklist to quickly evaluate your property:
| Requirement | Yes / No | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single-family zoning | Check city zoning map | |
| Urbanized area or urban cluster | Use federal or city GIS map | |
| Not in a fire hazard zone | Confirm with city or Cal Fire | |
| Not in a floodplain or hazard area | Check FEMA and local maps | |
| Not in a historic district | Verify local/state listings | |
| No recent tenants violating rules | Check past 3 years | |
| Lot size sufficient for split | ≥ 1,200 sq ft per lot | |
| Meets city objective standards | Parking, setbacks, height, coverage |
Filling out this checklist gives you a clear picture of whether you can move forward with SB 9.
Practical Tips for Homeowners and Developers Considering SB 9
If you are thinking about using SB 9, taking the right steps upfront can save time, money, and frustration. Here are practical tips to guide you:
Do due diligence first
Check your zoning, hazard maps, environmental constraints, and historic status before investing or applying.Use pre-screening with your local planning department
Many cities and counties offer a pre-screening process. This can flag issues early and avoid wasted fees.Consult professionals when needed
Work with an experienced planner, land-use attorney, or SB 9 consultant, especially for older lots, lots with rental history, or properties near hazard zones.Factor in all costs
Consider design, permit fees, parking, utilities, and potential infrastructure upgrades when evaluating a project.Understand the owner-occupancy requirement
For lot splits, you may need to sign an affidavit stating that you intend to live in one of the units for at least three years. Plan carefully if you intend to sell or rent.Consider community context
Think about neighborhood reaction, local HOAs, and private covenants. Even when SB 9 allows development, local sentiment may impact your project.
Conclusion — Is Your Parcel a Good Candidate for SB 9?
SB 9 can be a powerful tool for homeowners and developers seeking to increase housing units or subdivide lots in single-family neighborhoods.
Key takeaways:
Eligibility is specific — Your parcel must meet zoning, location, environmental, and historical criteria.
Restrictions matter — Recent tenants, lot history, and protected areas may disqualify properties.
Development standards apply — Even eligible parcels must follow setbacks, unit size, parking, and use rules.
Due diligence is essential — Using checklists, pre-screening, and consulting professionals can prevent costly mistakes.
SB 9 provides real opportunities to expand housing while simplifying the approval process. However, success depends on careful evaluation, compliance with objective standards, and thoughtful planning.
Additional Notes for Homeowners and Developers
Use a conversational tone and explain legal or planning terms clearly, such as “ministerial approval,” “single-family zone,” or “urban cluster.”
Mix paragraphs and bullets for readability, especially in sections that list criteria, restrictions, or practical tips.
Include links and references to official SB 9 summaries, city handouts, or SB 9 checklists whenever possible.
Consider a table summarizing “Eligible vs Ineligible Conditions” for a quick reference.
Add a mini-FAQ to answer common questions like:
“Can I use SB 9 if my lot is small?”
“Do I need to live in one of the units?”
“Can I rent short-term?”
“What if my property is in a flood or fire zone?”
Table: SB 9 Eligibility — Quick Reference
| Condition | Eligible | Ineligible / Requires Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Zoning | Single-family residential (R-1, RS, SF) | Multi-family, commercial, or other non-single-family zones |
| Location | Urbanized area or urban cluster | Rural or remote parcels |
| Lot Size | Meets minimum size for two units or lot split | Too small for split (<1,200 sq ft per lot) or irregular shape |
| Environmental Hazards | None or minor hazards | Fire hazard zones, floodplains, wetlands, earthquake fault zones, hazardous waste sites |
| Historic / Cultural Protections | No historic designation | Historic districts, landmarks, or easements |
| Existing Tenants | Vacant or compliant long-term tenancy | Tenant occupied in last 3 years, Ellis Act eviction in past 15 years |
| Previous SB 9 Use | Not previously split under SB 9 | Previously split under SB 9 (prevents repeat splits) |
| Use | Residential use only | Commercial use or short-term rentals (<30 days) |
Ready to Explore SB 9 for Your Property?
Understanding SB 9 and whether your parcel qualifies can be complex. Our experienced zoning consultants at JDJ Consulting can help you:
Review zoning and eligibility requirements
Assess environmental, historical, and hazard constraints
Plan lot splits or two-unit developments efficiently
Call us at (818) 793-5058 or contact us online today to get a personalized consultation and find out if SB 9 can work for your property.
SB 9 Resources & References
Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) — SB 9 Overview for Public
A clear, public-facing summary of SB 9, its aims, and basic eligibility/approval rules.
https://abag.ca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2022-02/SB_9_Overview_for_public.pdfCalifornia Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) — SB 9 Fact Sheet
Official fact sheet outlining the two main SB 9 pathways, ministerial approval, and general restrictions.
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/planning-and-community/sb-9-fact-sheet.pdfABAG — SB 9 Resources Page
A hub including model ordinances, sample affidavits, and checklists for cities and jurisdictions implementing SB 9.
https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/regional-housing-technical-assistance/sb-9-resourcesCity Planning Websites (Example: Los Angeles)
Official city guidance on SB 9: eligibility, renter protections, procedures, and required forms.
https://planning.lacity.gov/project-review/senate-bill-9County / Local Planning Pages (Example: Sacramento County)
Summaries of how SB 9 is applied locally under the law.
https://planning.saccounty.net/pages/sb9_sb10_information.aspxTerner Center for Housing Innovation (UC Berkeley) — How Cities Are Implementing SB 9
Analysis of SB 9 outcomes, challenges, and city-by-city variations.
https://ternercenter.berkeley.edu/research-and-policy/state-law-local-interpretation-senate-bill-9/Official SB 9 Bill Text
Full legislative text including eligibility clauses, legal definitions, and constraints.
https://legiscan.com/CA/text/SB9/id/2433375
