Urban equestrian inclusion zones.

Senator Menjivar's legislation authorizes local governments to establish urban equestrian inclusion zones, creating a framework for preserving dedicated equestrian spaces through voluntary land use contracts with property owners. The zones must be located within designated equestrian districts and can only include parcels that have maintained continuous equestrian activity since January 2020.

Under the program, cities and counties may enter into minimum five-year contracts with landowners to restrict eligible properties between 0.1 and 3 acres exclusively for equestrian uses. These agreements must prohibit residential development except for livestock caretaker dwellings, while permitting supporting structures like stables, barns, and riding areas. Local jurisdictions can recover implementation costs through administrative fees on participating landowners.

The bill amends the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 to classify these equestrian land use restrictions as reductions in development intensity, requiring localities to offset any resulting decreases in residential capacity elsewhere in their jurisdiction. No new contracts can be initiated or renewed after January 1, 2029, though existing agreements will remain valid through their duration. The legislation applies to all California cities, including charter cities, reflecting the Legislature's determination that preserving equestrian land use represents a matter of statewide concern.