Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Monterey County, CA (2026)

1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Monterey County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Monterey County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Density Bonus Law

Monterey County grants a density bonus of up to 35 percent above the base zoning allowance for housing developments of five or more units that set aside affordable units, in all residential zoning districts of the unincorporated inland area. Title 21 implements state density bonus law, Government Code §§ 65915-65917; a separate Title 20 chapter covers the certified Coastal Zone.

Monterey County Density Bonus for Housing

Some Restrictions

Monterey County Code §§ 21.65.020, 21.65.050

21.65.020 - Applicability. The provisions of this chapter are applicable in all residential zoning districts. 21.65.050 - Eligibility for density bonus. An application for a housing development containing five (5) or more residential units shall qualify for a density bonus and at least one other incentive as provided by this chapter if the applicant does one or more of the following: A.Agrees...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Zoning Overlays & Bonuses by City in Monterey County

1 cities in Monterey County have their own zoning overlays & bonuses rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

SalinasPop. 163,542

2 verified rules • Density Bonus Law, Downtown Design Guide

All Monterey County ordinances

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