Bill > SB484

This bill adds a new provision to the California Coastal Act that creates a categorical exclusion from coastal development permit requirements for specific affordable housing projects in certain infill areas. By July 1, 2027, the California Coastal Commission must identify at least three local jurisdictions without certified local coastal programs where residential housing projects consisting entirely of deed-restricted very low, low, or moderate-income units can be exempted from coastal development permit requirements. The bill requires the Commission to consider factors such as geographic distribution, population size diversity, housing element inventory, and potential sea level rise impacts when selecting these areas. The categorical exclusion will remain in effect until June 30, 2037, or until a local coastal program is certified. Before beginning construction, developers must request and receive a notice of exclusion from the Commission. The Commission is also required to submit a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2035, detailing the number of projects constructed or under construction under this categorical exclusion. Importantly, while exempt from coastal development permits, these projects will still need to obtain standard local land use entitlement approvals. The goal of this bill is to streamline affordable housing development in coastal areas while maintaining consideration of coastal resource protection.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB484