Inclusionary Housing in California: The Experience of Two Decades

Abstract

Answering the call for a “new comprehensiveness” in planning that enhances community equity, this paper presents a case study of Inclusionary Housing (IH), a program that can foster both residential integration and affordable housing. IH in California has evolved in response to, and has adapted to changing economic and political conditions. Survey findings for 75 IH programs show that they have produced more than 24,000 units, provide flexibility to the developers in meeting program requirements, establish affordability terms that are usually met at 30 years or longer, and favor moderate-income home buyers. Interviews with planners in San Diego County reveal that IH programs are usually established as a response to an actual or perceived threat of litigation due to noncompliance with state “housing element” law. Planners can enhance a new comprehensiveness by emphasizing state mandates and regional housing needs and by pursuing IH as one of the regulatory choices available to decision-makers.