Universal Applications for Home Building

AB 1294 creates a single, statewide application process for new home construction in California, making it faster, cheaper, and easier for home builders to complete the application process.

Currently, every city in California has its own unique application process for new housing proposals. While the process in many cities allows for timely and reasonable  review of these applications, the process is often abused in cities that seek to delay or deny new housing in areas where elected officials or city staff wish to prevent housing growth. Local planning departments often delay the “official” application review process by rejecting applications as “incomplete” for minor errors, or by requiring costly, pre-application studies. 

The subjective nature of the application process creates uncertainty, which can delay or block housing projects altogether – leading to higher housing costs for Californians. 

AB 1294 creates a standard, statewide application form for proposed new housing projects. It prevents the abuse of subjective pre-application meetings and studies, which many cities use specifically to delay or deny new housing. By establishing clear, statewide rules, AB 1294 allows builders to get further through the entitlement process, faster – leading to homes being built faster, and at lower cost.

Updates

  • AB 1294 is in the Senate Local Government Committee.

Authors

  • Matt Haney (AD 17)

Sponsors

  • California YIMBY
  • Abundant Housing LA

Resources