Local planning: regional housing need assessment.
The legislation could significantly impact state housing law by voiding any local measures that unreasonably restrict the development of multiple dwelling units on certain lots. By imposing conditions under which municipalities must assess their housing inventories, AB3040 encourages local governments to create more housing opportunities and streamline the development process. This change aims to address California's housing shortage by simplifying regulations and potentially expediting the approval of new residential developments.
Assembly Bill 3040, introduced by Assembly Member Chiu, seeks to amend local planning regulations regarding housing development in California. The bill fundamentally alters how cities and counties assess and address their regional housing needs allocations by allowing sites with existing single-family dwellings to be considered suitable for development of up to four dwelling units as a use by right. This aims to increase housing density in urban areas, especially in the context of addressing moderate and above-moderate income housing needs, which are crucial given California's ongoing housing crisis.
The sentiment around AB3040 is mixed among stakeholders. Proponents, including housing advocates and some local officials, view the bill as a necessary step towards increasing housing availability and combating homelessness, asserting that flexible zoning can lead to more vibrant communities. However, critics raise concerns about the potential for increased density to disrupt existing neighborhoods and question whether the bill adequately addresses concerns around infrastructure and local community character.
Contention has arisen around the bill's provisions that require local governments to allow new developments without extensive reviews or permits, which some argue undermines local control over land use. Additional debate exists regarding how the bill interacts with other housing regulations, such as Senate Bill 1120, and whether the credits granted to municipalities for meeting housing needs could lead to further systemic issues in balancing development with community needs.