Alameda County, CA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum project size
- 5 or more dwelling units
- Base density bonus
- 20% (5% moderate-income path)
- Maximum density bonus
- 35% of base units
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Alameda County only
- Administered by
- County planning director
Summary
Unincorporated Alameda County grants a density bonus up to 35% above base zoning density to housing developments that set aside units for very low, low, or moderate income households, under the county's own Chapter 17.106.
In order to qualify for a density bonus and one or more incentives under this chapter, a housing development must consist of five or more dwelling units and meet one or more of the following criteria: A. Agrees to construct and maintain at least five percent of the base units for very low income households; B. Agrees to construct and maintain at least ten (10) percent of the base units for lower income households...
Full Breakdown
Chapter 17.106 of the county zoning code grants a density bonus above the base zoning density to housing developments in unincorporated Alameda County that set aside affordable units. A project needs at least five units and must dedicate 5% to very low income households, 10% to lower income households, or 10% to moderate income households in a condo or planned development, or build a senior citizen housing development. The bonus starts at 20% of base units (5% for the moderate-income path) and rises with each added percentage point of affordable units, capping at 35%. The county planning director administers applications and sets fees. This applies only in the unincorporated county: its fourteen incorporated cities, including Oakland and Berkeley, set their own density bonus rules.
Violations & Fines
Violating the recorded affordable housing agreement costs the developer up to $5,000 per restricted unit per month in liquidated damages, payable to Alameda County under Section 17.106.090.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this density bonus apply inside Oakland or Berkeley?
How large can the density bonus get?
What bonus applies to senior housing developments?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Alameda County
California rules heatmap·Compare Alameda County to another location·View the California zoning overlays & bonuses overview
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