Voluntary Merger
A Voluntary Merger is a process that results in the combination of two or more contiguous parcels which are held in common ownership into a single parcel.
What is the process?
Step 1: Confirm Parcel Eligibility
Confirm that both parcels to be merged are contiguous (i.e. share a common property line), that each parcel is under the same ownership, and that each parcel has identical vesting (i.e. how the owners hold their interest in the parcel(s)).
Step 2: Obtain a Voluntary Merger Number
- Obtain a map number first, by following the steps for a Map Number Request here.
- Once you have the autogenerated map number, ensure the map number is printed on the voluntary merger exhibit.
Step 3: Application Package, Map, & Supporting Docs
Step 4: Apply Online
Please apply for a voluntary merger through the online service PermitSLO.
*** Please ensure all documents reflect the voluntary merger number. ***
- To apply online, click Subdivision Application
- Click Apply
- Login by providing your email address and clicking "Next", or "Create an account", if you are a new user.
- Follow the step-by-step instructions.
- Upload the Attachments Required for a Voluntary Merger Online Submittal before clicking Submit.
*Digital Copies are now required with submission*
Planning staff will look over the application submittal package and contact the primary contact with any questions.
Step 5: Pay Invoice
Planning staff will email the billing contact an invoice. Pay invoice here*.
Once the invoice is paid, the project review timeline will begin.
Please note for all Planning and Building applications, after 15 days of non-payment of invoice, the application will be voided and resubmittal will be required.
Step 6: Review by Planning Staff
Planning Staff will review the required documents, prepare the draft Notice of Voluntary Merger, and mail it to the applicant along with an invoice for recording fees.
Step 7: Applicant Follow-Up
Sign and notarize the draft Notice of Voluntary Merger, and mail it back to the Department of Planning & Building:
976 Osos Street
Room 300
San Luis Obispo, CA
93408
Pay the invoice for the recording fees online here.
Step 8: Recording the Voluntary Merger
Staff will sign and notarize the draft Notice of Voluntary Merger, and record it.
Step 9: Staff Mails Notice of Voluntary Merger
Staff will mail the official copy of the recorded Notice of Voluntary Merger to the applicant.
Who is eligible?
This service is available to anyone wishing to merge two contiguous parcels into a single parcel.
Is there a charge for this service?
Please refer to the Department of Planning & Building Fee Schedule for application fees.
When and where is this service offered?
This service is available throughout the year during regular business hours except during scheduled holidays.
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
976 Osos Street Room 200
San Luis Obispo, CA 93408
Tel: (805) 781-5600
Fax: (805) 781-1242
Permits/Inspections: (805) 788-6602
FAQS
Often, voluntary mergers are processed in order to accommodate building setbacks, such as when buildings are constructed over lot lines. They are also processed to simply create larger parcels.
No, a voluntary merger does not affect easements, streets, dedications, offers of dedication, or any other recorded interests.
Voluntary mergers can typically be processed within 90 days of the application being deemed complete.