SB9 in Long Beach

Long Beach earns a grade of C for its SB9 implementation. This grade reflects modest activity and limited approvals, indicating a city that has taken initial steps toward SB9 compliance but has not yet demonstrated strong or consistent support for the law. Investors should expect a cautious environment where SB9 projects are possible but not widespread or aggressively encouraged.

Long Beach is a charter city with a standard SB9 ordinance that meets state requirements. The ordinance allows for lot splits and duplex developments consistent with SB9 guidelines. It does not impose unusual setbacks, minimum lot sizes beyond state minimums, or restrictive design standards that would hinder SB9 projects. Parking requirements are typical and do not create significant barriers. The city has a growing SB9 program but has not introduced incentives or streamlined processes beyond the baseline compliance.

SB9 activity in Long Beach has been limited and uneven. In 2022, the city received two SB9 applications but approved none, reflecting initial caution or administrative delays in processing these new types of projects. The following year saw some progress, with two applications and two approvals, signaling a brief uptick in willingness to implement SB9. However, this momentum did not continue. In 2024 and 2025, no SB9 applications or approvals were recorded, indicating a stall in activity. As a charter city, Long Beach retains some local autonomy but has not faced litigation that suppressed SB9 implementation. The absence of enforcement actions or lawsuits suggests the city is compliant but not proactive. The flat trajectory suggests that while the city has established a framework for SB9, it has not prioritized or actively promoted these developments. This may be due to local political dynamics, community resistance, or administrative capacity constraints.

There is no record of enforcement action by the California Department of Housing and Community Development against Long Beach related to SB9 compliance.

Long Beach represents a cautious SB9 market. The city has demonstrated the ability to approve SB9 projects but has not shown sustained or growing activity. Investors should adopt a wait-and-see approach. Opportunities exist but are limited and unpredictable. Without significant local incentives or streamlined processes, SB9 projects may face delays or inconsistent outcomes. Investors seeking stable and active SB9 markets should look elsewhere for now. Those willing to navigate a slower, less certain environment may find occasional openings but should not expect rapid scale or strong support. For the grading methodology, see the SB9 City Guide post.