Proposed Law Would Prevent Downzonings in California

A proposed new bill would make it harder for California cities to downzone properties. "Oakland Senator Nancy Skinner of Oakland introduced SB 330, a bill which would amongst other things, curtail the ability of cities and counties to rezone properties to decrease their developable potential," Steven Sharp writes for Urbanize LA. Senator Skinner argues that SB 330 would enable more building by removing some of the obstructive power of local regulations.

“The bill, if adopted, would be in effect until January 1, 2030.  During that time, cities and counties would have up to 12 months to either approve or disapprove of any proposed housing development seeking a zone variance, conditional use permit, or other discretionary entitlement," Sharp reports. The bill would also cut fees on developers building housing and put in place a number of other policies aimed at increasing the supply of housing in the state.