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

Yorba Linda Municipal Code Chapter 18.19 implements the State of California Density Bonus Law, Government Code Section 65915, under Section 18.19.010, applying to multi-family residential and mixed-use projects of five or more units under Section 18.19.020. Section 18.19.040 makes clear that a density bonus request requires no discretionary City approval; it is granted automatically if the applicant commits to at least five percent very-low-income units, at least 10 percent low- or very-low-income units, at least 10 percent moderate-income units in a for-sale common interest development, or at least 35 units restricted to residents 55 and older.

Bonus percentages scale on tables in the code: for very low-income units the bonus rises from 20 percent at a 5 percent set-aside to the maximum 35 percent at an 11 percent set-aside, and for low-income units from 20 percent at 10 percent set-aside up to 35 percent at 20 percent. Density-bonus units themselves are excluded when calculating the required set-aside, and any fractional unit produced by the calculation rounds up to the next whole unit. Section 18.19.120 automatically incorporates future amendments to Government Code Sections 65915 through 65918, and if City provisions conflict with amended state law, the state law controls.

For rental and for-sale affordable units, Section 18.19.110's affordable housing agreement must be recorded and cover rent-setting or resale price standards, tenant qualification procedures, and remedies for breach, with the City Manager authorized to execute agreements after Council approval.