HABU pathway glossary

What is an SB 9 lot split?

SB 9 created a state-law pathway that may allow qualifying residential property to be divided and/or developed with additional primary homes, subject to statutory and local implementation requirements.

How to use this definition

Use it to understand the pathway named in your HABU report. A screen can identify a reason to investigate; only project-specific local and professional review can validate a development plan.

What this pathway means for a homeowner

What it could lead to

If every condition is satisfied, the pathway could lead to a second legal parcel, additional primary homes, or both. The actual end state depends on the existing improvements, the proposed map, access and utilities, local objective standards, title conditions, and the owner's plan.

What HABU screens

HABU compares available jurisdiction, zoning, parcel size, existing-use, hazard, and preliminary economic data against screening rules. The result is an early indication of whether the path deserves a detailed feasibility review, not a legal eligibility determination.

What still needs professional and local review

A local agency, surveyor, title professional, designer or engineer, and development advisor must validate the statutory qualifications, subdivision map, parcel dimensions, easements, access, utilities, fire requirements, existing tenancy or use restrictions, objective standards, and project economics.

Screening disclaimer: HABU does not determine legal eligibility or guarantee approval, physical fit, cost, rent, value, financing, timing, or return. Do not spend money or commit to a project based only on a screen; obtain local-agency and qualified professional review.

Questions about SB 9 lot split

Does an SB 9 screen mean my lot can be split?

No. It identifies a possible pathway from the data available to HABU. The local agency and qualified professionals must confirm every statutory, map, site, title, and infrastructure condition.

What could I have after a successful SB 9 project?

Depending on the approved plan, the result may include a second parcel, additional primary homes, or both. HABU should describe the screened concept, while the approved map and plans establish what can actually be created.

Check the source and compare pathways

Read the state source, then compare the other pathway definitions before treating one option as the answer for your property.

Authoritative source

California HCD: SB 9 guidance (2026)

Ready for a property-specific screen?
Start with the available parcel data, then validate any promising path.
Run the Sacramento SB 9 screen