Typical densities of existing or approved residential developments at a similar…
Housing Element Sites Inventory Guidebook (AB 1397) · 2026 edition · updated 2026-09-22 · California
While using typically built densities to determine realistic capacity has long been an option to be used as an adjustment factor, the statute now requires this factor to be adjusted based on approved project by affordability level. For example, if a site is identified to accommodate the lower income RHNA, it should use project densities for housing affordable to lower income households developed either locally or regionally to determine typical densities[6] . Using this adjustment factor may result in utilizing different capacity methodologies for above moderate-, moderate-, and lower income sites.
Current or planned availability and accessibility of sufficient water, sewer, and dry utilities The capacity methodology must be adjusted to account for any limitation as a result of availability and accessibility of sufficient water, sewer, and dry utilities (i.e., if the capacity of the site could be limited because a development would have to use a septic system, if there are any septic tank requirements or restrictions that constrain capacity, or limitations on water hook-ups). See Part A, Step 3 for more information on infrastructure requirements.
Example Capacity Calculation Here is an example of the actual capacity calculation for a particular site in the inventory. The methodology analysis must describe how each of these adjustments was generated per the analysis requirements above. The factors used below are based on the factors outlined in the statute. The percentages and how the factors are applied will vary depending on the unique circumstance in each jurisdiction.
6 In using this adjustment factor, because of the use of density bonus, it may be possible that trends demonstrate typical densities higher than the maximum allowable densities, especially for housing affordable to lower income households. On a case-by-case basis, it may be appropriate to utilize increased densities due to density bonuses when determining the adjustment factor in the capacity methodology.
Site Inventory Guidebook
Page 21
May 2020
| Site Description | |
|---|---|
| Size of site | 2.5 acres |
| Zoning | Residential Mixed-Use |
| Allowable density | 20–45 dwelling units per acre |
| RHNA affordability | Lower income |
| Existing Use | Nonvacant, single storefront |
| Infrastructure availability | Yes, no constraints |
| Environmental constraints | None known |
| Capacity Factors | Adjustment | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Land Use Controls and Site Improvements |
95% | For net acreage due to on-site improvements including sidewalks, utility easement |
| Realistic capacity of the site |
55% | 55% adjustment based on past development trends for residential redevelopment in the residential mixed-use zones, and programs to incentivize development in this zone. |
| Typical densities | 95% | Affordable housing projects are built out to almost maximum density |
| Infrastructure availability | No adjustment | Not applicable, no constraint |
| Environmental constraints | No adjustment | No known site constraint |
Realistic capacity utilizing factors = (2.5 X 45)( .95)(.55)(.95) = 56 units
Realistic Capacity = 56 Units
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