Long Beach, CA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- Govt Code 65915
- Local hook
- LBMC Title 21 21.67
- Benefits
- Units height parking waivers
- Income tiers
- Very-low low moderate
Summary
Long Beach implements California's Density Bonus Law, allowing housing developers extra units, height, parking concessions, and waivers in exchange for restricted affordable units. The benefits stack with the city's tier-based Inclusionary Housing ordinance under LBMC 21.67.
When an applicant seeks a density bonus for a housing development within, or for the donation of land for housing within, the jurisdiction of a city, county, or city and county, that local government shall comply with this section. A city, county, or city and county shall adopt an ordinance that specifies how compliance with this section will be implemented. Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (s), failure to adopt an ordinance shall not relieve a city, county, or city and county from complying with this section. A local government shall not condition the submission, review, or approval of an application pursuant to this chapter on the preparation of an additional report or study that is not otherwise required by state law.
Full Breakdown
California Government Code section 65915 entitles developers who include affordable units to density increases, concessions, waivers, and reduced parking. Long Beach reviews density bonus applications under LBMC Title 21 zoning rules with state-mandated procedures. Inclusionary Housing under LBMC 21.67 sets tier-based affordability requirements that can pair with density bonus benefits. Eligible projects designate units for very-low, low, or moderate-income households and accept long-term affordability covenants. Long Beach cannot reject qualifying projects that comply with state law, even if they exceed standard zoning limits.
Violations & Fines
Failing to record affordability covenants or providing fewer affordable units than approved can void the density bonus and trigger restitution, code enforcement, and revocation of building permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the city deny a compliant project?
Does inclusionary stack with bonus?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Long Beach
California rules heatmap·Compare Long Beach to another location·View the California zoning overlays & bonuses overview
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Density Bonus Law in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle density bonus law.