San Benito County, CA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

In unincorporated San Benito County, the county implements state Density Bonus Law (Cal. Gov't Code §§ 65915-65918) through its own ordinance at County Code § 21.03.013. A project qualifying with 20% lower-income units, 10% very-low-income units, 50% senior units, or 20% moderate-income condominium units earns at least a 25% density bonus over the otherwise maximum zoning density, unless the applicant elects a lower percentage. The bonus applies only to developments of five or more dwelling units, and the county must grant the requested concessions or incentives unless it makes a written finding, based on substantial evidence, that they are not needed to achieve affordable housing costs. Fractional units of 0.7 or more round up; applicants may pay an in-lieu fee for smaller fractions.