Marin County is experiencing a severe shortage of affordable housing. Many low- and moderate-income households cannot afford to live here. The policies and fees detailed on this page are required for projects proposing new development or lot splits with the goal of supporting more integrated and diverse communities, and ensuring that new development does not make the affordable housing crisis worse.
There are different requirements based on the type of proposed project. More details are available below.
Requirement by Project Type
The table below describes the affordable housing policy and fees that apply to projects proposing new residences and/or residential floor area.
| Project Type | Requirement | Development Code Section or Ordinance |
|---|---|---|
| Single Residential Unit | Affordable Housing Impact Fee |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3500 (and subsequently amended) |
| Multi-Unit (Rental) | 20% of units |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3798 |
| Multi-Unit (Ownership with Subdivision Map) | 20% of units |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3798 |
The table below describes the affordable housing policy and fees that apply to projects proposing a lot creation.
| Project Type | Requirement | Development Code Section or Ordinance |
|---|---|---|
| With Proposed Dwellings | Inclusionary Zoning Policy |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3798 |
| Lots Only | Inclusionary Zoning Policy |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3798 |
The table below describes the affordable housing policy and fees that apply to projects proposing new non-residential floor area.
| Project Type | Requirement | Development Code Section or Ordinance |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Residential Only | Commercial Linkage Fee |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3798 Resolution 2016-122 |
| Mixed-Use |
Development Code Section 22.22 Ordinance 3500 Ordinance 3798 Resolution 2016-122 |
Applicants interested in incorporating affordable units above and beyond the minimum requirements may be eligible for a reduction or waiver of the associated affordable housing impact fees or in-lieu fees. Additional incentives and concessions are detailed in Marin County Development Code Chapter 22.24, “Affordable Housing Incentives.” Please contact us for more information.