Zoning & SB 9
What is SB 9?
SB 9 is California's 2022 law allowing ministerial lot splits and duplex conversion on most single-family parcels. Owners can split a qualifying lot in two and place up to two units on each — effectively four homes where one stood — without discretionary review.
SB 9 has strict eligibility: parcel must be in a single-family zone, not in a high-fire severity zone or historic district, and the owner must intend to occupy one unit for three years after a lot split.
Adoption has been slower than projected because cities can apply objective standards (setbacks, height, design) that effectively constrain what's buildable. The most successful SB 9 projects start with a feasibility study.
Keep reading
Related questions
- • Can I split my lot under SB 9?
- • What's the difference between SB 9 and an ADU?
- • How long does an SB 9 lot split take?
Made it this far?Leo's on site · replies in ~3h
Then you're serious. Let's put it on a clipboard.
- 10-minute call with the foreman
- We tell you what your build actually costs, today
- No follow-up unless you ask
Free · Same-week scheduling