SB9 in San Diego

San Diego earns an A- grade reflecting a strong and improving SB9 program that is delivering increasing numbers of approvals. The city has moved beyond initial slow adoption to a functioning ministerial process that supports development under SB9. For investors, this means San Diego is a viable market for SB9 projects with growing certainty and a clear path to approval.

San Diego’s SB9 ordinance is standard for a large California city with a strong program in place. It allows lot splits and duplex developments consistent with state law. The city applies ministerial review without discretionary hearings, reducing delays. There are no unusual setbacks, minimum lot sizes, or design restrictions beyond typical zoning standards. Parking requirements are generally waived or minimized for SB9 projects, facilitating easier development.

San Diego’s SB9 activity started slowly in 2022 with 10 applications but no approvals, reflecting initial administrative hurdles and cautious implementation. By 2023, the city approved all three applications submitted, signaling that the ministerial process had begun functioning effectively. The program gained significant momentum in 2024 with 29 applications and 24 approvals, demonstrating strong uptake and growing developer confidence. The absence of applications or approvals in 2025 may reflect data reporting timing or a temporary pause rather than a program failure. There is no record of charter city litigation affecting SB9 in San Diego, allowing the city to maintain steady progress without legal disruption.

There is no record of any HCD enforcement action against San Diego related to SB9 compliance. The city remains in good standing with state housing requirements.

San Diego is a buy market for SB9 investment. The city has demonstrated a clear trajectory of growth in approvals and a functioning ministerial process that reduces risk and uncertainty. The strong approval rate of 64 percent over four years indicates that projects meeting SB9 criteria will likely succeed. Investors can confidently pursue SB9 developments here, expecting reasonable timelines and supportive city administration. For the grading methodology, see the SB9 City Guide post.