On January 1, 2022, the California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act (SB 9) went into effect in California. SB 9 is a state law intended to alleviate the housing crisis and provide more housing choices in our communities.

Under SB 9, cities must expand single-family zoning to allow both duplexes and urban lot splits (i.e., two separate homes on a single lot). The law establishes minimum standards for these projects; however, cities can adopt local regulations to go beyond the minimum standards (e.g., size, height, parking). 

On October 17, 2023, the City of Walnut Creek adopted its current SB 9 ordinance, which went into effect on November 17, 2023. The ordinance establishes the implementation of SB 9 in Walnut Creek as a ministerial process and provides guidelines for the development of dwelling units (such as ADUS, duplexes, triplexes and other housing types) as well as urban lot splits on eligible SB 9 parcels within the City. The City has also prepared a user-friendly handout explaining the new SB 9 regulations.

For lots located within private communities, it is recommended you review your HOA's CC&Rs prior to applying.

Please contact a city planner at dutyplanner@walnutcreekca.gov to discuss the application process for housing development and urban lot splits on eligible SB 9 parcels.