A Homeowner's Guide to SB-9 in California

A straightforward update from Imagineer Remodeling

SB-9 has come up in many conversations lately, and many homeowners tell us the same thing: "I've heard of it, but I'm not totally sure what it means for my property."

If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. The law is simple once you break it down, and it can open real opportunities for people who want to make better use of their land.

Here's a clear, no-nonsense explanation of what SB-9 allows and how the process works.

What SB-9 Actually Allows

If your home sits on a single-family lot, SB-9 gives you two main options:

• You can split your lot into two legal parcels.

• You can build up to two homes on each parcel.

Some homeowners end up with four homes; others use the law to add one or two units for family or rental income. The approach depends on your goals and what your property can realistically support.

Who Can Use It

Most single-family properties qualify, but there are a few rules worth knowing:

• Each new parcel must be at least 1,200 sq. ft.

• The two parcels have to be close in size.

• If you split your lot, you must live on the property for three years.

• You can't remove or displace tenants.

• Some protected or high-risk areas aren’t eligible.

If you aren’t sure whether your property qualifies, we can look it up and confirm it.

The Types of Homes You Can Build

Depending on the size of your lot and your city’s requirements, you may be able to build:

• A second home

• A duplex

• Two homes on each of the newly created parcels

A major benefit of SB-9 is the approval process. Cities must review these projects using ministerial approval, which means no public hearings and no long fights with neighbors. It’s a much cleaner path compared to traditional development.

What the Costs Generally Look Like

Actual costs depend on design, size, and site conditions, but these are typical ranges:

• Lot split and mapping: $15,000–$35,000

• New home construction: $250,000–$700,000 per unit

• Engineering, architectural plans, and design: $20,000–$60,000

• Utility connections and upgrades: $20,000–$60,000

Most full SB-9 projects take somewhere between 12 and 24 months from start to finish.

Why Homeowners Call Us for SB-9 Projects

Want to Know What’s Possible on Your Property?

A quick site visit and zoning review will tell you exactly what your options are. Whether you want to build for family, income, long-term planning, or simply to use your land more efficiently, we can walk you through the steps.

📞 Call Imagineer Remodeling

📧 Schedule a Consultation

🌐 Expert guidance. Straight answers. Proven results.