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Commission recommends by‑right affordable housing definition for C1/C3 zones to comply with state law
Summary
The planning commission voted unanimously to recommend a zone text amendment adding a by‑right definition and allowing affordable residential developments in C1 and C3 mixed‑use zones when projects meet the ordinance's 20% affordability threshold, aligning local code with state housing requirements.
The San Gabriel Planning Commission on Oct. 13 voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council adopt a zone text amendment establishing a “by‑right” definition and permitting affordable residential developments in C1 and C3 zones when projects provide the applicable affordable units and meet state requirements.
Staff said the proposed amendment (ZTA 25‑002) implements elements of the city’s housing element and state housing law by creating a by‑right use definition in the zoning code (section 153.003) and adding permitted use and development‑standard language for affordable multifamily projects in the mixed‑use (C1 and C3) chapters. Samantha, planning staff, told commissioners the change aligns local code with state housing requirements and that the Department of Housing and Community Development had reviewed prior versions of related language.
The amendment applies to mixed‑use areas primarily along Valley Boulevard and San Gabriel Boulevard where the city’s site inventory identified underutilized parcels appropriate for housing. Staff said the change does not alter parking requirements, lot coverage or height limits; it is intended to facilitate housing production by clarifying by‑right permission for certain affordable projects.
Public comment submitted in writing supported the amendment, and no speakers opposed during the hearing. Commissioners had brief technical questions confirming that the language came from state law and that the amendment had been reviewed previously by staff and HCD.
The commission moved to recommend approval to the City Council; the roll‑call vote was unanimous. The recommendation will be forwarded to council for final action under normal adoption procedures.
Ending If the City Council adopts the amendment, eligible affordable residential developments in the specified C1 and C3 zones that meet the code requirements would be able to proceed with zoning clearance consistent with the by‑right definition. Subsequent permit reviews (design, building permits, etc.) will still apply.
