
New Law Aimed at Encouraging Development
A new state law could erase a 30-year old rule that’s impacted nearly every housing development with 50 or more units in California. The landmark 1987 Westwood court decision required a full environmental analysis, even if the site’s existing city zoning allowed the project to move forward.
Senate Bill 35 was signed by Governor Jerry Brown last week, and would allow projects to proceed without additional planning and environmental reviews required under the California Environmental Quality Act if they comply with a zoning, affordability and labor standards. The new law is expected to expedite the development process, as well as helping to reduce construction costs.
The law is set to take effect January 1st, and is part of a larger effort by the state to do more to meet housing demand by encouraging more development.
For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Dennis Kaiser
- ◦Development