AB 2797 Summary

• Harmonizes the Density Bonus Law with the California Coastal Act of 1976 by requiring that any density bonus, concessions, incentives, waivers, or reductions of development standards granted under the law be permitted in a manner consistent with both statutes.

• Adds student housing as a new category eligible for density bonuses, requiring 20 percent of units to be reserved for lower-income students at 30 percent of 65 percent of area median income, with priority for students experiencing homelessness.

• Requires local governments to provide applicants with written determination of their eligibility for density bonuses and parking ratios within a specified timeframe after an application is deemed complete.

• Establishes that density bonuses for student housing developments receive a 35 percent density increase and defines "unit" for student housing purposes as one rental bed plus its pro rata share of common area facilities.

• Contains operative provisions making the amendment effective only if companion bills (AB 2753 and/or SB 1227) are also enacted, with different section implementations depending on which bills ultimately pass.