California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: housing development projects.

A coalition of California Assembly Members, led by Buffy Wicks, proposes exempting qualifying housing developments from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements through legislation that establishes specific criteria for streamlined project approval. The exemption would apply to housing developments under 20 acres located within incorporated municipalities or urban areas, provided they meet density requirements and are consistent with local planning documents.

To qualify for the CEQA exemption, projects must either occupy previously developed urban sites or have at least 75% of their perimeter adjacent to urban development. The legislation maintains environmental protections by requiring developers to complete Phase I environmental assessments. When these assessments identify potential hazards, developers must conduct preliminary endangerment assessments and implement any necessary mitigation measures before receiving occupancy certificates.

For housing located within 500 feet of freeways, the bill mandates specific design and air quality measures, including centralized HVAC systems with freeway-facing air intakes prohibited, high-efficiency air filtration, and restrictions on freeway-facing balconies. Local governments would oversee implementation of these requirements, with authority to levy fees and assessments to cover associated costs. The legislation preserves protections for tribal cultural resources and historic structures, prohibiting exemptions for projects that would impact these assets.