Senate Bill 484 requires the California Coastal Commission – in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and by July 1, 2027 – to identify infill areas within at least three (3) local jurisdictions that do not have a certified local coastal program (LCP), for which residential housing project comprised only of deed-restricted affordable units would be eligible for a Categorical Exclusion (Cat Ex) Order from the coastal development permitting (CDP) requirement. Additional information about this legislation can be found in the summary below. The twelve (12) uncertified local jurisdictions that are subject to consideration under this statute are shown in the maps below. Coastal Commission and HCD staff will be consulting with the relevant local governments and interested stakeholders to inform the selection and implementation process.
Senate Bill 484 Overview
Senate Bill 484 (Chapter 416, Statutes of 2025) amended the California Coastal Act by adding a new provision – Section 30610.05 – to help streamline approval of affordable housing. 1 This provision requires the California Coastal Commission, in consultation with the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), to identify and then designate infill areas in select coastal jurisdictions without certified Local Coastal Programs (LCPs) where 100% affordable housing projects are categorically excluded from the requirement to obtain Coastal Development Permits (CDP). Per the statute, adopted exclusions will remain in effect until June 30, 2037, or the certification of an LCP, whichever comes first.
Background on the Coastal Act
The Coastal Act requires that new development in the coastal zone maximize public coastal access, protect sensitive habitat and other natural resources, and be safe from flooding, erosion, and other coastal hazards. The Act also contains provisions specific to housing, including policies that encourage density within already-developed areas and promote housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income households.
