Determination of Consistency with Applicable Plans, Standards, or Other Similar…

Government Code, § 65589.5, subdivision (f)(4)

A key component of the HAA is the determination as to whether or not the proposed housing development project is consistent, compliant and in conformity with all applicable plans, programs, policies, ordinances, standards, requirements, and other similar provisions.

Traditionally, this determination is made by local government, which is given significant deference to interpret its own plans, programs, policies, ordinances, standards, requirements, and other similar provisions. In most planning and zoning matters, courts traditionally uphold an agency’s determination if there is “substantial evidence” to support that determination. If substantial evidence supports the agency's decision, an agency can reach a conclusion that a development project is inconsistent with applicable provisions, even if there is evidence to the contrary.

Departing from these traditional rules, the HAA sets forth its own standard for determining consistency with local government rules for housing development projects and emergency shelters. A housing development project or emergency shelter is deemed consistent, compliant, and in conformity with an applicable plan, program, policy, ordinance, standard, requirement, or other similar provision if there is substantial evidence that could allow a reasonable person to conclude that the housing development project or emergency shelter is consistent, compliant, or in conformity with applicable standards and requirements. The intent of this provision is to provide an objective standard and increase the likelihood of housing development projects being found consistent, compliant and in conformity.