California Government Code 65915 grants developers density bonuses, parking reductions, and concessions when projects include affordable, senior, or transitional housing units across all Orange County jurisdictions.
California's Density Bonus Law applies to every city and the unincorporated county. Developers committing 5 percent very-low, 10 percent low, or 10 percent moderate-income for-sale housing can claim percentage density bonuses scaling up to 80 percent or more under recent amendments such as AB 1287. Projects also receive reduced parking ratios, waivers of development standards that physically preclude the bonus, and one to four concessions depending on affordability depth. Orange County and its cities must process bonus requests ministerially, though design review may continue. The law preempts conflicting local zoning maximums.
Local agency denial that ignores bonus law obligations can be challenged via mandamus or HCD enforcement. Builders typically litigate denials.
See how other cities in Orange County handle density bonus law.
See how Costa Mesa's density bonus law rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.