Navigating SB 9 and Conventional Land Subdivisions

Aallyson Moore • February 20, 2025

Navigating SB 9 and Conventional Land Subdivisions

As we move into the new year, we want to thank many of you for your comments and suggestions regarding our Communications. Greenwood & Moore is here to support and provide guidance, offering insights, opportunities and ideas you may not be aware of.


Looking forward, our 2025 series will start by exploring the opportunities between a “conventional” and “SB 9” subdivision. In these first blogs, we’ll review the actual subdivision process alongside a SB 9 subdivision, highlighting key differences.

Navigating SB 9 and Conventional Land Subdivisions

Given the numerous decisions and considerations involved in just the first two phases, it’s crucial to understand the rules, steps, and options available in the land subdivision process. For phases 1 and 2, the “conventional” or “SB 9” subdivision differences may not seem as significant, however the nuances and differences will become more evident in future phases we’ll discuss.  


As always, Greenwood & Moore is here to support and guide you, offering insights and opportunities you may not have considered.


Land subdivision is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We encourage you to review our 8-Phase Land Subdivision Process and reach out—we’re here to help you make informed decisions and successfully move forward with your subdivision plans.

For property owners and developers, understanding the differences between SB 9 and the conventional approach is essential for making informed decisions. One of the key requirements of a SB 9 project is the need to live on one of the parcels for a period of at least three years. Conventional subdivisions do not have this restriction. This requirement makes SB 9 subdivisions ideal for homeowners who want to increase the value yet stay on the property.


Two of the greatest benefits of the SB 9 process is the elimination of the public hearings and the streamlined approval process. These two benefits alone (and there are others) allow you opportunities to create additional housing units, improve the value of your property and build a lasting legacy not available using the conventional subdivision process.


However, there are circumstances where the conventional subdivision process is a better choice than the SB 9. Confused yet!? This is why the feasibility study described below is so important. There are often several development options to select from. The trick is to pick the best option based upon your individual needs and goals. Greenwood & Moore can provide you with valuable information that will assist you in making an informed decision.


Many of you may have visited our website, but have you explored our Learning section? There, we’ve laid out the 8-Phase Land Subdivision Process in detail. This resource breaks down each phase, outlining what to expect and providing valuable insights to help guide your decision-making.


Understanding the Process and How It Changes the Game

Navigating the process for new developments or remodeling projects can be daunting, especially in a region as complex and regulation heavy as California. For property owners and developers looking to optimize their efforts, there is a significant difference between following the SB 9 process versus the traditional permitting pathway.


Let’s start by examining the first two phases, highlighting the key distinctions and why they matter.

Land Subdivision Process – Phase 1: Feasibility Study and Budgeting

Navigating SB 9 and Conventional Land Subdivisions

Jeff will tell you—this step is critical. Understanding what’s possible and how much it will cost is essential to the success of any project.


Client Identifies Site: When you come to Greenwood & Moore, you’ve selected a building site you believe is a strong candidate for subdivision. Our team will support you by evaluating the site based on the information you provide.


Research and Feasibility Study: Our team conducts thorough research and prepares a feasibility study, providing key criteria to assess the project's potential success.


Preliminary Budget: The feasibility study provides crucial information that allows you to prepare an “initial budget” to ensure your project aligns with your financial goals and has a strong chance of success. Jeff will tell you that this crucial step is most often overlooked by new developers. You must have a realistic understanding of the financial aspects of the project in order to make an informed decision on whether or not to proceed.


Go/No-Go Decision: This is where you, in collaboration with Greenwood & Moore, determine the best path forward. All decisions remain in your hands, allowing you to decide how and when to proceed.

Land Subdivision Process – Phase 2: Decision Time – Moving Forward or Reevaluating

Navigating SB 9 and Conventional Land Subdivisions

Go: If you choose to move forward, SB 9 streamlines the municipal approval process.

With a well-researched feasibility study in hand, you have the clarity and control needed to advance the subdivision process while understanding the risks and rewards.


No-Go: If your research and feasibility study reveal financial or regulatory challenges, Greenwood & Moore will work with you to reevaluate your options. 

This could mean modifying your approach, considering alternative sites, or terminating the project.

The Importance of Understanding the Land Subdivision Process

Given the numerous decisions and considerations involved in just the first two phases, it’s crucial to understand the rules, steps, and options available in the land subdivision process. For phases 1 and 2, the “conventional” or “SB 9” subdivision differences may not seem as significant, however the nuances and differences will become more evident in future phases we’ll discuss.


As always, Greenwood & Moore is here to support and guide you, offering insights and opportunities you may not have considered.


Land subdivision is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We encourage you to review our 8-Phase Land Subdivision Process and reach out - we’re here to help you make informed decisions and successfully move forward with your subdivision plans.


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

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