Housing Element Update – Dec 2023

Another important date in the housing element process is just around the corner. Jurisdictions that did not have their housing elements certified by May 31, 2023 must have all housing element rezonings completed by January 31st, 2024. 

Only Sausalito was certified by May 31, 2023, so they will have until January 2026 to complete their rezonings. They will need this time as their rezonings hinge on an election. 

Marin County completed its rezonings at the same time it adopted its housing elements, and San Rafael did not require rezonings due to its downtown precise plan, so they are in compliance. 

Throughout the rest of Marin, we are seeing a flurry of meetings as jurisdictions rush to rezone and complete their housing elements. Here’s what we currently know about the status of the Housing Elements:

  • Belvedere will be presenting an updated housing element to the Planning Commission January 3rd. 
  • Corte Madera and Tiburon have certified housing elements. TIburon has rezoned the Paradise Drive site expected to develop 90 units. 
  • Fairfax has approved their housing element and is planning for rezoning. HCD letter expected 2/5/24. 
  • Larkspur held a planning commission meeting December 12th during which the Housing Element and zoning ordinances to receive input on the housing element. Comments are expected from HCD on Jan 30.
  • Mill Valley – Housing Element adopted. Letter from HCD expected 12/26. We expect Mill Valley will complete any needed rezonings, but we will check. 
  • Novato – HCD letter should have been released 12/15
  • Ross – Housing Element submitted to HCD. Letter expected 1/12/24. 
  • San Anselmo Town Council adopted the Housing Element at the December 12th meeting, and is submitting to HCD. Will adopt two zoning amendments in January. 

In addition to rezonings, the Marin jurisdictions have all committed to a number of programs designed to encourage housing production and prevent displacement of existing residents. MEHC will track the implementation of these housing elements.