What is a Housing Element?

A state-mandated policy document that identifies where and how cities will accommodate existing and projected future housing needs for people of all income groups. 

According to State Law, a Housing Element must updated every eight years and:

  • Provide goals, policies, quantified objectives, and scheduled programs to preserve, improve, and develop housing;

  • Identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs for all economic segments of the community;

  • Identify adequate sites zoned and available within the eight-year housing cycle to meet Larkspur’s fair share of regional housing needs at all income levels;

  • Be certified (approved) by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) as complying with State Law; and

  • Be internally consistent with other parts of the General Plan.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Housing Element?
2. Why do we need a Housing Element?
3. Why should I participate in the update process?
4. What is the City's Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA)?
5. Is Gilroy required to build the housing assigned?
6. What is considered "low-income" in Gilroy?