Read:  DCP Memo, May 20, 2022 

On September 28, 2021, the Governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 478, also known as the Housing Opportunity Act. The bill adds Government Code Sections (§) 4747 and 65913.11 and amends Housing Element Law at Government Code §65585 to include a number of changes and clarifications. SB 478 will enable the construction of multi-family units in zones where restrictions on Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and minimum lot size restrict their development.

This memo will serve as interim guidance for staff and project applicants on the implementation of SB 478 until the time this memo is superseded. Staff and interested parties are encouraged to refer to state law in Government Code §4747, §65585, and §65913.11 for additional information, as the memo is not exhaustive.