California SB9: Unlocking New Housing Opportunities

Arya Hosseini
Dec 5, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Jan 7

California’s housing landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the introduction of Senate Bill 9 (SB9), also known as the California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act. This groundbreaking legislation empowers property owners to maximize their land’s potential while contributing to the state’s housing crisis solution. At Alimo Architects, we specialize in navigating SB9 projects, offering innovative designs and seamless permit processing for property owners.

What Is SB9?

SB9 Overview by California HCDSB9, effective since January 2022, allows homeowners to:

Split Single-Family Lots: Divide a single-family zoned lot into two separate lots.
Add New Housing Units: Construct up to two housing units per lot, enabling the creation of up to four units on what was previously a single-family property.

This law aims to increase the housing supply by making it easier for homeowners to develop properties in ways that were previously restricted.

Key Benefits of SB9

Increased Property Value By adding more units, property owners can significantly boost the value of their land.
Affordable Housing Creation SB9 facilitates the development of more affordable housing options, addressing the growing demand.
Rental Income Potential Additional units provide opportunities for generating consistent rental income.
Flexibility for FamiliesMultigenerational families can benefit from having additional living spaces on the same property.

For more insights into the benefits of SB9, visit California YIMBY's SB9 FAQ.

SB9 Requirements and Guidelines

To qualify for SB9 development, property owners must meet the following criteria:

Owner Occupancy: One of the housing units must be owner-occupied for a minimum of three years after the lot split.
Lot Splits: Each resulting lot must be at least 1,200 square feet, with one lot not smaller than 40% of the original parcel size.
Zoning Compliance: The property must be in a single-family residential zone.
Environmental Restrictions: Properties located in historic districts, flood zones, or fire-prone areas may not qualify.

Learn more about these requirements on the California Legislative Information SB9 Page.

Our team ensures your project complies with these regulations, making the process straightforward and stress-free.

Our Expertise in SB9 Projects

At Alimo Architects, we provide comprehensive services for SB9 projects, including:

Lot Split Design and Planning: Crafting innovative layouts that maximize space and functionality.
Entitlement Packages: Preparing detailed documentation to meet local jurisdiction requirements.
Permit Processing: Navigating the complex approval process to save you time and hassle.
Architectural Design: Creating sustainable and visually appealing housing units that integrate seamlessly with existing structures.

Learn more about our architectural services here (link to your services page).

Innovative Design Solutions

Our team specializes in designing ADUs, JADUs, and other housing units that align with SB9’s guidelines. Whether it’s a detached unit or a conversion of existing spaces, we focus on:

Optimizing space for livability and aesthetic appeal.
Ensuring energy-efficient and eco-friendly designs.
Maintaining compliance with local zoning laws and building codes.

Explore our ADU services here (link to your ADU page).

Why Choose Alimo Architects for SB9 Projects?

Expert Knowledge: We stay updated on local zoning regulations and SB9 guidelines to ensure your project’s success.
End-to-End Support: From initial planning to construction, we manage every step of the process.
Customized Designs: Our solutions are tailored to your property’s unique needs and potential.

Get Started with Your SB9 Project Today

SB9 offers an incredible opportunity for homeowners to transform their properties into valuable assets while contributing to California’s housing solutions. Whether you’re considering a lot split, adding new units, or need help navigating the approval process, Alimo Architects is here to guide you.

Contact us today to explore how we can bring your SB9 project to life. Let’s unlock the full potential of your property together!