Lot Merger–Planning

A Lot Merger combines two or more substandard lots into one and is a recorded document. A Lot Merger is completely different than a Lot Combination. A Lot Combination is processed through the Assessor’s Office and combines the lots for tax billing convenience purposes only (i.e., one tax bill). With a Lot Combination, the lots can still be sold separately. With a Lot Merger, the lots become one and can only be divided and sold separately if they are in compliance with the Subdivision Map Act, County General Plan, and County Development Code.


Normal processing time is four to six weeks from the acceptance of the application.  All required supplemental documents must be submitted and fees paid prior to your application being accepted.


To qualify for a Mandatory Lot Merger:

1. All lots must be contiguous or adjacent, AND;


2. The ownership of all lots must be identical (Note: Smith, John A. and Smith, John are not identical), AND;


3. The lots must be in the same tax rate area, AND;


4. All taxes must have been paid and current, AND;


5. At least one of the following conditions must exist:
   
   
   
   1. One of the lots does not conform to standards for minimum lot size or dimensions specified by the applicable land use district;
   
   
   2. The lot comprises less than five thousand (5,000) square feet in area;
   
   
   3. The lot was not created in compliance with applicable laws and ordinances in effect at the time of its creation;
   
   
   4. The lot does not meet slope stability and/or density standards as specified by the Development Code, a Specific Plan, or the General Plan;
   
   
   5. The lot has no legal access which is adequate for vehicular and emergency equipment access and maneuverability;
   
   
   6. The development of the lot would create health or safety hazards;
   
   
   7. The lot is inconsistent with the General Plan and any applicable Specific Plan other than for minimum lot size or density standards.
   
   
   
   

Can I apply online? Yes, applications can be found in the EZ Online Permitting Portal