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

4650. 4656 requires the City to grant a density bonus, plus at least one concession or incentive of equivalent financial value, whenever a housing developer agrees to build any one threshold: 10% of units for very low-income households, 20% for low-income households, 50% for qualifying senior residents, or, in a condominium project, 20% for moderate-income households. 4653(g) defines "density bonus" itself as an increase of at least 5%, and up to 35%, over the maximum density otherwise allowed by the zoning ordinance and general plan land use element in effect when the application is filed.

4659 sets out a sliding scale: providing 10% low-income units earns a 20% density bonus, rising in half-percent increments up to a 50% bonus at 24% low-income units; the very low-income scale starts at 5% units for a 20% bonus and reaches the same 50% cap. 4653(e) include reduced minimum lot sizes and setbacks, increased lot coverage, and reduced on-site parking, with the code fixing the parking ratio the City may require at one space for a studio or one-bedroom unit, two spaces for two- or three-bedroom units, and two and one-half spaces for units with four or more bedrooms. 4656(b) makes clear that granting a density bonus does not, by itself, require a general plan amendment, zoning change, or other discretionary City approval.