An Overview of California SB-9: Understanding the Basic Concepts

California’s Senate Bill 9 (SB-9), known as the “California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act,” represents a powerful shift in how homeowners can use their properties. Enacted in 2021, SB-9 allows eligible property owners to subdivide their lots and build additional housing units — unlocking new opportunities for wealth building, property value growth, and family flexibility.

At Riechers Engineering, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate the SB-9 process — and we even offer a free eligibility check to help you determine if your property qualifies.

What Is SB-9?

SB-9 is designed to make housing more attainable across California by allowing homeowners to:

• Split an existing single-family lot into two separate parcels
• Build up to two residential units on each newly created lot

This essentially turns a single-family property into a potential four-unit property, dramatically increasing its development potential.

However, not every property qualifies automatically. There are key eligibility requirements around zoning, lot size, location, environmental factors, and more — which is why professional guidance is critical.

How SB-9 Benefits Homeowners

1. Increase Property Value
   By subdividing your land and creating additional units, you’re effectively increasing the “highest and best use” of your property — which typically boosts your property’s market value significantly. Whether you sell immediately or hold the property for the long term, SB-9 can open new doors to equity growth.

2. Create New Income Streams
   With additional units on your property, you can generate rental income. This passive income can help offset your mortgage, fund other investments, or create greater financial security.

3. Flexible Living Options for Families
   SB-9 allows homeowners to create space for multigenerational living — providing nearby but separate housing for adult children, aging parents, or other family members while preserving privacy and independence.

4. Build Wealth Through Real Estate Development
   If you’re development-minded, SB-9 opens an opportunity to enter the real estate market in a powerful way — without needing to purchase a second property. You can build and sell new homes, live in one unit and rent or sell the others, or customize your long-term investment strategy.

5. Help Meet California’s Housing Needs
   In addition to personal benefits, SB-9 empowers homeowners to be part of the solution to California’s housing shortage by adding more housing units in existing neighborhoods — often without dramatically changing the community’s character.

Why Work With Riechers Engineering?

Navigating the SB-9 process requires an understanding of:

• Local Planning Departments 
• Local zoning laws
• Lot size requirements
• Environmental considerations
• Utility access and easements
• Jurisdiction-specific rules that cities impose 

Our team at Riechers Engineering offers:

• A free eligibility check using our proprietary tools
• Site-specific assessments
• Management of the permitting process and entire project management
• Deep experience across 50+ cities and counties in California 

We make the process simple, clear, and achievable — so you can confidently move forward and unlock the potential in your property.

Want to find out if your property qualifies?
Contact us here to get your free SB9 eligibility check and personalized report.