California’s Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) gives owners of single-family lots the opportunity to split the lot into two parcels and build additional housing units. The law was designed to address the state’s housing shortage by increasing density in residential zones while letting homeowners realize more of the value and utility of their land.
At PACM we guide property owners through the lot-splitting process and deliver high-quality construction for the new homes on split lots. Whether you want to create additional income, provide housing for family members, or invest in development, PACM is your partner from feasibility through move-in.
What is an SB 9 lot split?
SB 9, effective in 2022, allows homeowners to divide a residentially zoned property into two smaller lots. This opens the door to duplexes or additional units without expanding urban sprawl. Key requirements include:
- Minimum lot size. Each new lot must be at least 1,200 square feet, and the split must be roughly even (no lot smaller than 40 percent of the original).
- Owner occupancy. The owner must intend to live in one of the units for at least three years after the split.
- Parking. No additional parking is required if the property is within half a mile of high-quality transit.
- Zoning compliance. The property must be in a single-family residential zone and meet local objective standards.
Eligible applications receive ministerial review, which means the city checks them against objective standards rather than holding discretionary hearings. Local rules still matter, and Palo Alto’s objective standards shape what can actually be built. We will tell you early whether your lot is a good candidate.
Why PACM for lot splitting and construction
We do not just split lots. We build the homes that go on them.
- Expert guidance. From zoning and setbacks to the survey, tentative map, and documentation, we handle the complexity so you do not have to.
- Custom construction. We design and build homes that make the most of the new parcels and meet our standards for quality and performance.
- Compliance assurance. We stay current with California’s evolving housing law and Palo Alto’s ordinances so your project stays compliant.
- Sustainable solutions. Environmentally responsible practices that make the new housing functional and durable.
- Turnkey service. From the first consultation to the final walk-through, one team.
The benefits
- Increased property value. A second buildable parcel can significantly increase what your land is worth.
- Additional income. Build rental units or sell the new parcel.
- Efficient land use. More housing where infrastructure already exists.
- Community impact. A real contribution to California’s housing supply, on your own block.