SB 9 Urban Lot Splits Approved
Summary
Two homeowners cleared the final step to split their lots into two each — one on Farwell Ave., one on Sobey Rd. — under the state law that lets homeowners create a second lot without discretionary review.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 2 meetings in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 21, 2026.
Impact analysis
Fee waivers could reduce building permit revenue (roughly $17,000 for a 1,200 sq. ft. ADU), offset by more affordable units.
The two property owners, who can now record their maps and pursue building permits.
Adjacent neighbors who say privacy, fire safety, and the historic character of their street will suffer.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Joint Session - Santa Clara County Fire Department - Oct 21, 2026
Two homeowners cleared the final step to split their lots into two each — one on Farwell Ave., one on Sobey Rd. — under the state law that lets homeowners create a second lot without discretionary review.
City Council - Sep 16, 2026
A developer will subdivide a 6,750-sq-ft parcel into three lots with three-story homes up to 42 feet tall plus an ADU. Neighbors opposed over fire access, privacy, and neighborhood character, but state housing law gave the city no grounds to deny.
Saratoga residents and developer come to terms on project
Saratoga residents and developer come to terms on project San José Spotlight
City Council - Jul 1, 2026
Three two-lot splits on Zorka Avenue, Herriman Avenue and Rice Court got final map approval, meaning each single lot can now become two buildable lots under the state's SB 9 law.
City Council - Apr 1, 2026
The council doubled down on incentives to build affordable ADUs — bigger bonuses for deed-restricted units, fee-waiver reworking, and a possible amnesty program for unpermitted units. It rejected a shortcut affidavit idea as unenforceable.
Related development
Three-Lot Residential Subdivision (CPX24-0011)
Three new homes on what is currently one small lot — neighbors worried about density and lost their appeal, in part because state housing law limits the city's ability to say no.
20393 Zorka Avenue Two-Lot Urban Lot Split
Creates two buildable lots where building permits can be issued; a routine ministerial approval with no Council discretion.
20030 Herriman Avenue Two-Lot Urban Lot Split
Creates two buildable lots; ministerial approval under state law.
20695 Rice Court Two-Lot Urban Lot Split
Creates two buildable lots; ministerial approval under state law.
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