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

Article 67 (Sec. ) implements State Density Bonus Law, Government Code sections 65915-65918, and Sec. 33-1413 sets the local formula. Under subsection (a), the decision-making body must grant a density bonus, plus incentives or concessions under Sec. 33-1414, to a housing development of at least five units (three within the South Centre City Specific Plan) that commits to one of several affordability tiers: a minimum of 10% of units affordable to lower income households (Health and Safety Code Sec. 5), 5% affordable to very low income households (Sec.

50105), a qualifying senior citizen development, 10% moderate income units in a common interest development, 10% of units for transitional foster youth, disabled veterans or homeless persons, 20% lower income student housing, or a 100% lower income project. Subsection (b) sets the bonus itself: the amount varies with the percentage of affordable units provided above each minimum and cannot exceed 50% except as otherwise authorized by State Density Bonus Law. 5 percentage points of bonus for each added percentage point of low income units, reaching 50% bonus at 24% low income units.

5 points of bonus per added point, reaching 50% at 15% very low income units. Senior citizen housing developments receive a flat 20% density bonus. Table C covers common-interest moderate income projects, starting at a 5% bonus for the 10% minimum and adding roughly one point of bonus per added point of moderate income units. Density bonus units are excluded when calculating the development's target unit count, and any conflict between the article and state law is resolved in favor of state law.