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

Chapter 21.18 implements the state Density Bonus Act, Government Code Sections 65915 et seq., through the Community Development Director. Section 21.18.020 requires the application on a Director-approved form, filed concurrently with any other required land use application and accompanied by a fee set by City Council resolution. Once an applicant documents eligibility, Section 21.18.030 bars the city from imposing any development or parking standard that would physically preclude the project, and requires a recorded agreement, approved by the City Attorney, securing continued affordability before the Building Official issues a permit.

The Menu of Incentives in Section 21.18.050 lets a qualifying project request up to a 20% reduction in any yard or setback, except where the parcel abuts an R-1 or more restrictive zone, up to a 20% reduction in lot width, a floor area ratio increase matching the density bonus percentage up to 35%, and a height increase matching that same percentage, capped at 11 additional feet or one story, with a one-foot setback added per additional foot of height and no added height within 50 feet of an R-1 lot or 15 feet of an R-2 lot.

Open space requirements may drop up to 20%, and Level 2 CALGreen compliance adds either a 20% density bonus or a 50% open-space credit. Section 21.18.070 lets projects within 1,500 feet of a transit stop or major employment center substitute more, smaller affordable units for the standard mix. Under Section 21.18.060, the Director must approve the bonus and requested incentives unless making written findings under Government Code Section 65915(d)(1), with the decision mailed to the applicant and abutting property owners.