REPORT TO Station Area Task Force
SUBJECT
Title
State Bill 79 (SB 79) Overview
Report
BACKGROUND
On October 10, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 79, the Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, into law (See weblink to the Bill in Attachment 1). SB 79 is intended to promote higher-density housing near public transportation and address the state’s housing shortage. The legislation overrides local density limits to allow high-density residential development within one-half mile of qualifying major transit stops, including Caltrain, BART, and VTA stations.
DISCUSSION
Staff will provide an overview of the key provisions of Senate Bill (SB) 79 and its potential implications for local land use and planning. The new law establishes minimum residential density standards for sites located within one-half mile of qualifying transit stops. At the same time, SB 79 includes provisions that allow for local flexibility in implementation.
Specifically, local jurisdictions may adopt alternative transit-oriented development (TOD) plans) that provide for an equivalent or greater amount of housing near transit while reflecting local priorities and community goals. The Station Area Specific Plan would qualify as such an alternative TOD plan under SB 79, allowing the City to maintain consistency with state housing objectives while retaining local control over development standards and design.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
There is no staff recommendation.
Staff
Prepared by: Rebecca Bustos, Principal Planner, Community Development Department
Approved by: Lesley Xavier, Planning Manager, Community Development Department
ATTACHMENTS
1. Web Link: SB 79