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San Rafael council studies state housing laws as downtown density and height concerns rise
Summary
At a Feb. 2 study session, city staff told the San Rafael City Council that state density-bonus laws and ministerial pathways (e.g., SB 35) have driven most recent multifamily projects and limited local discretion; staff sought guidance on revisiting downtown density, planning-commission roles and a possible new ministerial process.
San Rafael — City planners told the San Rafael City Council on Feb. 2 that state housing laws have reshaped how multifamily housing is reviewed and approved in the city and asked whether staff should explore changes to downtown density rules, the Planning Commission's role and a targeted ministerial approval process.
Planning manager Margaret Kavanaugh Lynch said the city has seen “18 major housing projects” since 2021 and that 17 of the 18 used the state density-bonus pathway. She explained that the state density-bonus and ministerial programs allow developers to seek concessions and waivers — including for height and setbacks — and said…
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