Governor Signs Sen. Blakespear Bill to Boost Housing Options in Coastal Areas

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday signed legislation by Sen. Catherine Blakespear, D-Encinitas, aimed at speeding up the approval of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in coastal zones.  

California faces a housing shortage that has helped drive the state’s growing crisis of homelessness, and in coastal areas, the lack of housing options is particularly pronounced. That is partly due to the nature of the permitting required by California Coastal Commission.

Sen. Blakespear’s SB 1077 aims to harmonize coastal permitting requirements with state accessory dwelling unit (ADU) law thereby making it easier to apply for, and receive, ADU permits to build them.  

“The lack of affordable housing is a problem throughout California and especially in coastal areas,” Sen. Blakespear said. “Building ADUs is a great way to add gentle density and provide affordable housing options. I thank the Governor for signing this legislation, which will ultimately reduce regulatory hurdles for ADUs in coastal areas that need housing.”

SB 1077 directs the Coastal Commission to work in coordination with the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to develop guidance for local governments to harmonize their ADU ordinances with their Local Coastal Programs (LCPs). The goal is to resolve conflicts in mandates between the Coastal Commission and HCD.

Elected in 2022, Sen. Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern San Diego County and part of southern Orange County. To learn more about the district and Sen. Blakespear, visit her Senate website.