California YIMBY

Cracking the Code on High Rents

While zoning and permitting delays get much of the blame for high housing costs, building codes are an oft-overlooked contributor. These codes set minimum construction standards, such as for structural and electrical safety, and fire protection. And most U.S. apartment…

The Housing that Comes with a Bonus: More Housing

California has advanced several housing reforms over the past decade to tackle high costs, but one 1979 law—the Density Bonus Law—has become one of the most-used tools for homebuilders to get their housing approved by cities and counties. The Bonus…

California Legislature Votes to Lower ADU Costs

SB 1117 Eliminates Arbitrary “Fee Cliff” ; Homeowners to Save Thousands “This is an important step toward lowering the cost of new homes.” Los Angeles – Today, the California Legislature voted to approve SB 1117, a bill which eliminates arbitrary…

The Homework: August 12, 2026

California YIMBY-sponsored bills lowering costs on ADUs and streamlining starter homes advance, a study found inclusionary zoning cuts homebuilding 32%, and California sued 5 cities for violating state housing laws.

Lower Fees Lead to More Homes and More Revenues

One of the many levers that California cities control that directly influence housing production is the one-time fee they charge builders to help cover roads, parks, and other public infrastructure. A new RAND Corporation study by Lizhong Liu and Jason…