CAL.Regulation
California requires extra density bonus for mixed-income student housing
Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 2480 (Chapter 801, Statutes of 2026) on September 29, 2026, amending Government Code section 65915. Cities and counties must grant an additional density bonus to a student housing development that gives 24% of its units to lower income students and adds units affordable to moderate-income students, if no more than 50% of total units are income-restricted. A moderate-income student is an independent student earning up to 120% of area median income.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Cities and counties must grant an additional density bonus to qualifying mixed-income student housing developments.California Legislative Information
- A moderate-income student is one not claimed as a dependent, with income up to 120% of area median income.California Legislative Information
- Qualifying projects give 24% of units to lower income students and add units affordable to moderate-income students.California Legislative Information
- The development may not restrict more than 50% of total units to moderate-income or lower income students.California Legislative Information
- Chapter 801, Statutes of 2026; no urgency clause, so it takes effect January 1, 2027.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of the Governor
Filed under
RegulationCal.AB 2480 — Student Housing Super Density BonusConsumer protectionRegulatoryFor practitionersFor governance