Coastal resources: coastal development permits: infill area categorical exclusion.

Senator Laird's coastal development legislation creates a streamlined permitting pathway for affordable housing projects in designated coastal areas, directing the California Coastal Commission to identify infill zones within at least three jurisdictions lacking certified local coastal programs by July 2027.

The bill establishes a categorical exclusion from coastal development permit requirements for residential projects in these zones that are fully dedicated to deed-restricted housing for very low, low, or moderate-income residents. This exclusion remains in effect until June 2037 unless a jurisdiction certifies its local coastal program. When selecting exclusion areas, the Commission must consult with the Department of Housing and Community Development to maximize zone size while avoiding areas vulnerable to sea level rise, ensure geographic and population diversity among chosen jurisdictions, and align with local housing element site inventories.

While exempt from coastal permits, qualifying projects must still obtain standard local land use approvals and receive a notice of exclusion from the Commission before beginning construction. The Commission must publish maps of categorical exclusion areas by August 2027 and report to the Legislature by January 2035 on the number of projects constructed under this provision. The exemption requires approval by two-thirds of appointed Commission members, overriding existing regulatory requirements for categorical exclusions.