The Game-Changing Housing Strategy Few Are Talking About - SB 9 Without a Lot Split

That’s right—you don’t have to split your lot to take advantage of this powerful new housing law. In fact, there are 4 ways to take advantage of SB 9, and for many homeowners, these options can be a real game-changer.

LET’S BREAK IT DOWN: THE 4 MAIN WAYS TO USE SB 9

Here at Greenwood & Moore (G&M) we’ve been sharing with you our thoughts on using SB 9 and how it allows property owners in single-family zones (like R-1) to subdivide their land. How you use the SB 9 law depends on your goals. Here are the four basic approaches that SB 9 provides—and the first two allow you to use the law without a lot split.

Let’s explore this further:

1. Add Units to a Lot With an Existing Home (No Lot Split Needed)

If you already have a single-family home, SB 9 allows you to add other units (up to a total of 4) all without the need to split your lot.

Example: You have a house. You add a second detached house in the backyard, then add two ADU’s. You now have up to four units on one lot—no subdivision and no public hearings!

 2. Build Two Units on a Vacant Lot (No Lot Split Needed)

If your lot is vacant, SB 9 allows you to build two primary homes, and potentially add an ADUs to each.

Example: You own an empty lot. You build two homes and later add an ADU behind each. Again—up to four units on one parcel, and no need to split the lot!

3. Split the Lot, Then Build (Vacant Lot)

This is the “classic” SB 9 scenario. You subdivide your lot into two, then build two units per parcel.

4. Split a Lot That Already Has a Building or Buildings on It

You can also use SB 9 to split a property that already has home(s) on it,  then add more units—again, staying within the four-unit cap.

Why “No Lot Split” is the Real Breakthrough

In general, lot splits are an extremely popular option with our clients because you end up with a new parcel which typically increases your property’s value. Each lot can be sold separately thereby creating a great financial opportunity for you. Options 3 and 4 are examples of how to subdivide (split) your land in a simplified manor.

For some clients, however, there are circumstances where a lot-split is not possible or even desirable. In these cases, SB 9 may still be able to help you. This is where Options 1 and 2 above can help. With SB 9, you can expand your housing options, on your existing property, without touching the parcel lines. Here’s why that’s a big deal:

• Faster approval – These projects are approved ministerially with no public hearings required. This type of development is much faster than an SB 9 subdivision.
• Lower cost – Land surveying, legal and other design costs are significantly reduced.
• Keep full ownership – You don’t have to deal with separate parcels or title changes.
• Ideal for family or rentals – Add space for relatives, caregivers, or extra rental income.

Is This Right for You?

If you’re a homeowner in a single-family zone, there’s a good chance you can take advantage of SB 9 either with or without splitting your lot. G&M is your partner in this journey and we want you to be able to take full advantage of the benefits of SB 9; so if you have questions or want to see if this can be an opportunity for your property or new development, give us a call.   

We have more than 30 years' experience, providing the services and unique planning expertise needed to navigate the many stages of the SB 9 process, saving you needless frustration, expense, and delays. Our sole purpose is to provide you with outstanding technical services in a way that saves you time and money.

We look forward to hearing from you and making your Vision A Reality.

Since 1994, G&M’s goal is to “Make our Clients' Vision a Reality."