San Francisco prepares for AB 2011 housing bill impact on zoning and approvals
September 08, 2022 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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The San Francisco government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on the implications of Assembly Bill 2011, which is anticipated to be signed into law by the governor. This bill is expected to significantly impact the city's housing development processes by allowing for ministerial approval of certain projects, thereby streamlining the approval process.
Director Hillis provided an overview of the bill, highlighting that it applies to projects with five or more units that meet specific criteria, including affordability thresholds. The projects must be located in mixed-use zoning districts that permit both housing and commercial use, and they must be situated on roadways wider than 70 feet. Notably, existing housing cannot be demolished to make way for these developments.
The bill also introduces height and density increases, capped at 65 feet, which is relevant given that many areas in the eastern part of the city have height limits exceeding this threshold. Developers can combine this bill with state density bonuses, provided they adhere to certain labor standards, primarily focusing on prevailing wage requirements.
During the meeting, there was a discussion about the inclusionary housing requirements specific to San Francisco. It was clarified that projects must include on-site affordable units, as off-site fees or land dedications would not qualify for ministerial approval under AB 2011.
Commissioners expressed interest in holding an informational session to further explore the bill's implications and ensure that all stakeholders are adequately informed. Director Hillis noted that while the department has not yet received inquiries from other jurisdictions, they are prepared to interpret and implement the new law effectively.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to adapting to new housing legislation, with plans for further analysis and communication regarding AB 2011 as it moves toward implementation.
Director Hillis provided an overview of the bill, highlighting that it applies to projects with five or more units that meet specific criteria, including affordability thresholds. The projects must be located in mixed-use zoning districts that permit both housing and commercial use, and they must be situated on roadways wider than 70 feet. Notably, existing housing cannot be demolished to make way for these developments.
The bill also introduces height and density increases, capped at 65 feet, which is relevant given that many areas in the eastern part of the city have height limits exceeding this threshold. Developers can combine this bill with state density bonuses, provided they adhere to certain labor standards, primarily focusing on prevailing wage requirements.
During the meeting, there was a discussion about the inclusionary housing requirements specific to San Francisco. It was clarified that projects must include on-site affordable units, as off-site fees or land dedications would not qualify for ministerial approval under AB 2011.
Commissioners expressed interest in holding an informational session to further explore the bill's implications and ensure that all stakeholders are adequately informed. Director Hillis noted that while the department has not yet received inquiries from other jurisdictions, they are prepared to interpret and implement the new law effectively.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to adapting to new housing legislation, with plans for further analysis and communication regarding AB 2011 as it moves toward implementation.
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