News Summary
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 79, allowing taller residential buildings near transit hubs to increase housing density. Set to take effect in 2026, the bill permits developers to construct buildings up to nine stories high near subway stops, with varied regulations for light rail and bus lanes. While supporters see it as a solution to the housing crisis, critics argue it undermines local control over urban planning. The law aims to address California’s severe housing shortage and promote affordable living in urban areas.
California
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law Senate Bill 79, a significant measure aimed at increasing housing density near transit hubs across the state. This legislation, which will take effect on July 1, 2026, is designed to facilitate the construction of taller and denser residential buildings in proximity to subway, light rail, and bus stops, thereby promoting affordable housing and public transportation use.
Under the stipulations of Senate Bill 79, developers will be permitted to construct residential buildings up to nine stories high adjacent to subway stops. In addition, buildings can reach heights of seven stories within a quarter-mile of subway stations and six stories within a half-mile. For properties adjacent to light rail and dedicated bus lanes, the height regulations vary from five to eight stories based on proximity to transit stations.
This initiative comes as Newsom acknowledges the ambitious goal he set to build 3.5 million new homes by the end of the year, a target he is expected to miss. Senate Bill 79 represents one of the most significant housing reforms in California’s recent history and follows similar legislation signed by Newsom in June aimed at streamlining housing construction.
The bill is strategically aimed at counties with at least 15 passenger rail stations, including major urban centers such as Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Sacramento. Los Angeles, in particular, is expected to be heavily impacted, with an estimated 150 transit stops affected by the new regulations.
Supporters of the bill, including YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) groups and developers, argue that it provides critical encouragement for housing development while fostering increased public transportation usage. Nevertheless, the legislation has faced criticism from city leaders and residents who believe it undermines local control over urban planning. Both Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and the City Council have voiced opposition to the bill, arguing that it imposes a one-size-fits-all solution to the unique housing challenges of different communities.
Specific exemptions and delays are included within the measure, particularly for properties located in high-risk fire zones or historic preservation areas. Smaller cities have been afforded special exemptions, while other areas may delay the bill’s implementation until approximately 2030, allowing more time for planning and community engagement.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for overdevelopment and adverse effects on neighborhood dynamics. Critics emphasize the necessity for local municipalities to manage their own growth and urban planning without overarching state mandates. Throughout the legislative process, Senate Bill 79 has undergone extensive debate and undergone multiple amendments to reach its current form.
Proponents maintain that despite its complexity, the law seeks to address California’s ongoing housing shortage and affordability crisis. Senate Bill 79 is part of a broader effort by Newsom and state lawmakers to tackle these pressing issues by boosting housing supply and ensuring affordable living opportunities close to jobs and public transit.
As California continues to navigate its housing challenges, the passage of Senate Bill 79 highlights the state’s commitment to reform and innovate around housing solutions while balancing the needs and concerns of local communities.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times
- Bloomberg
- NBC Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: Housing in California
- CBS News
- Google Search: California Senate Bill 79
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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