California Senate Bill 79, the “Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act,” seeks to increase residential development near public transportation. Passed in 2025 and taking effect July 1, 2026, the bill requires that local zoning allow residential and mixed-use housing projects within one half mile of major transit stops.
This new legislation overrides many local zoning restrictions that have historically limited density and establishes statewide standards for height and unit density based on proximity to transit.
Local and regional governments across California are bracing for the impact that SB 79 will have on their land-use planning and zoning regulations as they navigate the new legislation, including requirements for affordable housing set-asides. Notably, the law allows local governments flexibility to create alternative plans, provided they meet overall housing capacity targets.
MIG is supporting our California clients in developing effective responses to this historic legislation. Our planning professionals are helping local governments amend their current general plans and zoning regulations to conform to SB 79 and tailor implementation to their unique conditions. We also work with local and regional transit agencies to develop effective zoning and objective design standards.
Our decades of experience providing planning support for governments throughout the state gives us a clear understanding of how legislation like SB 79 impacts local housing policy, building codes, and zoning regulations.
For more information about how MIG is helping cities respond to SB 79, contact Laura Stetson, Principal, at lstetson@migcom.com.