SB 9 Eligibility Requirements

Property Eligibility

​The lot must be located in a single-family residential zone. The property cannot be in a historic district, prime farmland, hazardous waste site, or certain high-risk environmental zones (e.g., flood zones or very high fire hazard areas, unless mitigated). It must also be within an urbanized area or urban cluster as defined by the U.S. Census.

Lot Split Regulations

The minimum original lot size must be at least 2,400 square feet before the split. The resulting lots must be at least 1,200 square feet each and should be roughly equal in size, with neither lot being smaller than 40% of the original parcel. Only one lot split per parcel is allowed—meaning the newly created lots cannot be split again under SB 9.

Local City Review

Cities and counties must approve lot splits ministerially, meaning they cannot require discretionary review or hearings unless there are health and safety concerns. However, local design and zoning standards may still apply, such as setbacks, height limits, and parking requirements. Some cities have passed restrictive local ordinances to limit the impact of SB 9, making compliance more complicated.

Occupancy & Rentals

The applicant (property owner) must sign an affidavit committing to live on the property for at least three years following the lot split. This rule prevents large-scale developers from taking advantage of the law. Any housing created must be used for residential purposes only. The new units cannot be used as short-term rentals and must have a minimum lease term of at least 30 days.

Don't Stress, We make it EASY

Lot splits can be overwhelming – permits, regulations, unexpected issues... it's a lot to handle! Our team can connect you with SB 9 experts that handle everything:
  • Navigating complex regulations: To ensure your project is fully compliant, saving you time and potential delays.
  • Streamlined permitting: Creating plans that maximize your property's potential.
  • Efficient project management: Professionals oversee the entire process, ensuring quality and timely completion.
Focus on your vision, not the paperwork! What if you could skip the headaches and fast-track your project? Turn your property dreams into reality. By outsourcing you receive:
  • Faster approvals: Our partners know ins and outs of the process, getting your project approved quickly.
  • Reduced stress: Let professionals handle the complexities while you relax.
  • Increased property value: Unlock the full potential of your lot with expert guidance ensuring maximum value.​

SB 9 Lot Split Costs

Land Survey & Mapping

​Boundary & Topographic Survey:
$5,000 – $10,000
Parcel Map Preparation:
​$8,000 – $20,000

​Cities require a parcel map, prepared by a licensed surveyor or civil engineer.

City Planning Fees

Lot Split Application Fees:
​$2,000 – $10,000
Expedited Fees:
$1,000 – $5,000
​
​Some cities charge higher fees if additional impact reviews are required.

Title & Legal Fees

Title Report:
$500 – $1,500
Legal Fees & Documentation:
​$3,000 – $10,000
​
Includes easements, new parcel deeds, and owner-occupancy affidavit.

Environmental Review

Environmental Review (if required):
​$1,000 – $5,000
Safety Review (if required)
​​$1,000 – $5,000

Most SB 9 projects are exempt from CEQA, but cities may require additional reviews.
I outsourced my SB 9 lot split to a specialized company and they helped me sell my new lot to a developer for six figures.
​-​Patrick B (San Pedro, CA)
Thank you for helping me find the right team to make the most out of my lot split. I couldn't be happier with the results.  
​-Linda W (Los Angeles, CA)
It was nice to not having to worry about dealing with the City myself for the permitting and approval of my lot split.  
​-Steve L (Los Angeles, CA)