California’s Half Moon Bay says coastal regulations hinder housing development

The town is entirely within the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission, which imposes a layer of strict development regulations.

1 minute read

April 5, 2026, 9:00 AM PDT

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Coastal road in Half Moon Bay, California.

Half Moon Bay officials say the town is balancing preservation and environmental considerations with the need for more housing. | Anza Photo / Shutterstock

The Northern California town of Half Moon Bay says it is having difficulty meeting the state's requirements for new housing due in part to its location entirely within the California Coastal Commission's jurisdiction.

Governor Newsom specifically called out Half Moon Bay in 2024, when a shooting that killed seven local farm workers highlighted the poor living conditions for local agricultural workers.

As Kasia Pawlowska explains in SFGate, the city is subject to Coastal Act reviews for any rezonings, and is also limited by a voter-approved measure that caps growth at 1%-1.5% annually. According to an FAQ put out by city officials, "The City is making steady progress while ensuring development is responsible, legally sound, and consistent with its coastal character."

Thursday, April 2, 2026 in SFGate

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