Senate Bill 9 (SB9)| What can I build?

In 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 9 (SB9) to further address California’s housing shortage. SB9 went into effect January 1, 2022. This law establishes a streamlined process to develop two primary residential dwelling units on one eligible single-family zoned parcel, and to split one eligible single-family zoned parcel into two separate parcels of approximately equal size. SB9 also provides more flexible property setbacks and parking standards and extends subdivision approval expirations for eligible parcels

Single-Family Zone
The parcel must be zoned for single-family residential use.

Not Within Protected Resource Areas
The project site cannot be in a conservation area or hazardous waste site, and cannot contain protected species habitat, designated historic resources, prime farmland, farmland of statewide importance, wetlands or High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VFHSZ).

Demolition Restrictions
The project cannot involve demolition of affordable housing or rental housing/units.

Long Term Rental Requirement
If the project creates a rental unit, it must be a long-term rental (>30 days).

SB9 Land Divisions and Owner Occupancy
Parcels are not eligible for an SB9 land division if they were created by an SB9 urban lot split. Property owners are also required to occupy one of the lots as their primary residence for a minimum of three years.

Let’s look at some conceptual options below.
Please remember the content of this section is intended for general reference only and a property specific review with all governing agencies is required for feasibility determination.