Fast-Tracking Housing in San Francisco: The Benefits of SF's New Approval Process for Property Owners
San Francisco's Housing Constraints Ordinance, championed by Mayor London Breed, is a comprehensive legislative effort designed to address the city's severe housing shortage by simplifying and expediting the approval process for new housing projects. Here’s how it benefits property owners:
Key Benefits of the Housing Constraints Ordinance:
1. Elimination of Unnecessary Processes: The ordinance amends existing code provisions that require Conditional Use Authorizations (CUs) by the Planning Commission. These approvals often add six to nine months to the housing approval process. By eliminating most CUs for code-compliant projects, the ordinance allows new housing to be approved much faster, reducing delays and associated costs.
2. Removal of Restrictive Standards and Geographic Limitations: The legislation removes outdated requirements that limit the form or location of certain types of housing. This includes easing geographic limitations on senior housing, shelters, and group housing. It also reforms development standards, such as private open space and setback requirements, providing more flexibility for new housing proposals.
3. Expansion of Incentives for Housing: The ordinance expands access to incentive programs like the City’s HomeSF program and allows the City to waive fees for certain affordable housing projects. These incentives make it more financially viable for property owners to develop new housing, particularly affordable units.
Implications for Developers and Homeowners:
For property owners in San Francisco, the Housing Constraints Ordinance offers a more predictable and efficient path to obtaining approvals for new housing projects. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and providing greater certainty in the approval process, property owners can move forward with their projects more quickly and with fewer financial risks. This is particularly beneficial in a high-demand housing market where time and costs are critical factors.
Conclusion:
San Francisco's Housing Constraints Ordinance is a significant step towards alleviating the city's housing crisis. By streamlining approval processes, removing restrictive standards, and expanding incentives, the ordinance makes it easier for property owners to contribute to the city's housing supply. These changes not only benefit property owners but also help address the broader issue of housing affordability and availability in San Francisco.
Citations:
[1] https://www.frbsf.org/research-and-insights/publications/community-development-working-papers/2022/03/housing-market-interventions-and-residential-mobility-san-francisco-bay-area/
[2] https://www.reubenlaw.com/san-francisco-now-a-10-city-under-sb-423-sb-35/
[3] https://www.sf.gov/news/mayor-breeds-housing-constraints-legislation-removes-barriers-new-housing-approved-board
[4] https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/news/2024/07/01/sb-423-san-francisco.html
[5] https://sfplanning.org/project/housing-element-update-2022