Alhambra, CA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Chapter 23.14 of the Alhambra Zoning Code implements California's State Density Bonus Law, Cal. Gov't Code §§ 65915 et seq., and applies in every zoning district that allows residential uses (§ 23.14.020). Any housing development or qualified land transfer that meets the state's affordability thresholds under Gov't Code § 65915 is eligible to apply for a density bonus, incentives and concessions, with the exact bonus percentage and number of incentives set by the state formula rather than a separate city schedule (§§ 23.14.030, 23.14.040). Locally, an applicant must file a written request with the Planning Division, processed concurrently with the project's other entitlements, and the application must include a project description, total unit count with bedroom mix, the number of bonus units sought above the otherwise-maximum density, the number of units reserved for very low, low, moderate income or senior households, the site's zoning and General Plan designation and assessor's parcel number, a scaled vicinity map and preliminary site plan showing building footprints, driveways and parking, and a list of the specific concessions or incentives requested with an explanation of why each is needed (§ 23.14.050).

The Planning Commission or City Council reviews the request alongside the underlying project; if no hearing body would otherwise review the project, the Community Development Director decides it instead, and the request must be approved once the applicant complies with Gov't Code § 65915 (§ 23.14.060). Before final approval, the city and applicant must agree on a method for assuring the density bonus units remain affordable for the required covenant period (§ 23.14.070).