Bill > SB1014

This bill aims to improve transparency and predictability for housing development projects by requiring local governments to provide developers with more detailed information about necessary improvements. Specifically, it allows applicants for housing development projects to request a preliminary estimate of required onsite and offsite improvements, which are defined broadly to include various public services and infrastructure like roads, utilities, and parks. Local agencies must provide this estimate within 30 business days. Furthermore, once an application for a post-entitlement phase permit (a permit issued after initial project approval) is deemed complete, the local agency must provide an itemized list of all required onsite and offsite improvements before the permit is issued. The bill also establishes exceptions where additional improvements can be required, such as for public health and safety, if the developer changes the project scope, or to mitigate environmental effects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This legislation is considered a matter of statewide concern, applying to all cities, including charter cities, and is intended to address impediments to housing production by clarifying improvement costs and requirements.