SB9 vs Lot Split

 What is SB9?

SB9, or Senate Bill 9, is a groundbreaking California law aimed at addressing the housing crisis by allowing homeowners to split their single-family residential lots. This law empowers property owners to create up to four housing units on a single-family lot, promoting the development of more affordable housing options.

SB9 Benefits

• Create Additional Housing: Split existing lots to build multiple housing units, increasing housing supply and diversity.
• Boost Property Value: Enhance the value of their property by adding new structures.
• Support Local Housing Needs: Contribute to alleviating the housing shortage in the region.

To take advantage of SB9, property owners must meet specific criteria and follow local regulations. Key requirements include:

• Verify within your local jurisdiction.
• Must be located in an SB9 approved zone.
• New parcel should be equal in area or must be at least 40% of the original parcel's size (60/40 or 50/50 split)
• Owner-Occupied: One of the housing units must be owner-occupied for at least three years.
• Zoning Compliance: The project must comply with local zoning, environmental, and building standards

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Verify if the property qualifies for a lot split which can be affected by the lot size or if the slope grade surpasses 25% . This includes evaluating the lot size, zoning, and any specific local requirements.

Step 2: Feasibility Study

Conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate the potential of your property. This involves site analysis, reviewing local regulations, and identifying any potential obstacles or requirements.

Step 3: Planning and Design

Work with design team / engineers and create a detailed plan for the lot split. This includes designing the new lot configuration, ensuring compliance with zoning and building codes, and planning for necessary infrastructure like utilities and access.

Step 4: Submitting Applications

Submit the necessary applications to the local planning department. This typically includes:

Step 5: Review and Approval

The local planning department will review your application. This process may involve public hearings or community meetings. Be prepared to address any concerns or requests for modifications from the planning department or the community.

Step 6: Finalizing the Lot Split

Once approved, the final step is to record the new lot configuration with the County Recorder's Office. This makes the lot split official and allows for the development of new housing units.

Step 7: Development

With the lot split finalized, you can begin the development process. This includes obtaining building permits, starting construction, and ensuring compliance with all local regulations and standards.