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

Chapter 17.114 of the Paramount Municipal Code implements California Government Code Sections 65915 through 65918. The density bonus is calculated under Government Code Section 65915(f), every density calculation is rounded up to the next whole number, and the units can sit on contiguous sites that are the subject of one development application. The bonus can be placed in areas of the development other than where the lower income units are located.

Eligibility under section 17.114.040 starts with set-asides. A development qualifies with five percent of total units for very low income households, 10% for lower income households, or 10% for moderate income households in a common interest development where all units are offered for purchase. Other routes include senior citizen housing, 10% for transitional foster youth, disabled veterans or homeless persons, and 20% for lower income students. The table in section 17.114.060 scales the bonus: a very low income percentage of 5% to 9% earns a 20% to 30% density bonus and one incentive, 15% to 99% earns 50% and three incentives, and 100% earns 80% and four. Senior housing earns 20%, and student housing earns 35% with one concession.

Process comes next. Section 17.114.030 requires the density bonus application to be filed with the development application, and it is not deemed complete until the housing development application is. The developer signs a written agreement, and a very low and lower-income rental unit stays affordable for 55 years or longer if the financing program requires. Under section 17.114.070 the City must grant a requested incentive or concession unless it makes a written finding, based on substantial evidence, that it does not reduce cost, causes a specific adverse impact, or is contrary to law. The City is not required to provide direct financial incentives or waive fees. Section 17.114.090 caps parking ratios on request at 1 space for a studio, 1 space for one bedroom, 1.5 spaces for two and three bedrooms, and 2.5 spaces for four bedrooms.