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Specific Plans, Master Plan, and other Subdivisions

Housing Element Sites Inventory Guidebook (AB 1397) · 2026 edition · updated 2026-09-22 · California

To utilize residential capacity in Specific Plan areas, areas under a Master Plan, or a similar multi-phased development plan, the housing element must identify specific sites by parcel number and demonstrate that the sites are available and suitable for development within the planning period. The analysis should include the following information:

  • Identify the date of approval of the plans and expiration date.

  • Identify approved or pending projects within these plans that are anticipated in the planning period, including anticipated affordability based on the actual or projected sale prices, rent levels, or other mechanisms establishing affordability in the planning period of the units within the project.

  • Describe necessary approvals or steps for entitlements for new development (e.g., design review, site plan review, etc.).

    • Describe any development agreements, and conditions or requirements such as phasing or timing requirements, that impact development in the planning period. End

The housing element must also describe existing and proposed policies or incentives the jurisdiction will offer to facilitate development of large sites. Examples of facilitation include expedited or automatic approval of lot splits or creation of new parcels, waivers of fees associated with subdivision, or expedited processing or financial assistance with the development of infrastructure required to develop the site.

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▸Contents — Housing Element Sites Inventory Guidebook (AB 1397)

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