AB 609: Broad CEQA Exemption for Infill Housing
Creates a broad CEQA exemption for infill housing projects (up to 20 acres) that comply with local general plans and zoning standards in environmentally friendly areas. Aims to reduce permitting delays and costs for urban housing to address California’s housing crisis.
What It Means:
This could fast-track mid- to large-sized apartment and housing projects by reducing environmental review and lawsuits that often delay or block construction.
Our Concerns
The size limit is too large — we suggest lowering it to 10 acres or 500 units to protect communities from massive developments with little oversight.
The requirement for central heating/air conditioning within 500 feet of freeways adds unnecessary cost and should be removed.
Bottom Line
We agree with reducing red tape for sensible infill housing, but without changes, AB 609 could allow overly large, poorly planned developments that bypass important community safeguards.