Background on Housing Element Update
The Housing Element is a required chapter of the City’s General Plan. It establishes policies and programs that guide the development of housing over an 8-year period (also referred to as a Planning Cycle). State law requires all California jurisdictions update their Housing Elements every 8 years and receive certification from the California State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). Certification ensures Housing Elements are in substantial compliance with State housing law.
The City is currently in the process of updating its 6th Cycle Housing Element Update for 2023-2031 Planning Period. The update process will involve:
- An analysis of existing conditions, community demographics, and the housing stock.
- A review of City processes, fees, zoning requirements, local ordinances, and development standards related to housing.
- An analysis of environmental factors and availability of infrastructure and services.
- An analysis of fair and equitable housing practices and availability of housing opportunity.
- A review of the currently adopted 5th Planning Cycle Housing Element policy programs.
For the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update, the City of Brentwood must demonstrate the ability to accommodate 1,522 housing units during the 2023-2031 Planning Period at a range of affordability levels. The Housing Element Update will demonstrate the City of Brentwood currently has or will adopt policies to have ability to accommodate these units through its zoning and development standards.
Community Engagement

Key Dates
OCT 17
First Draft submittal to HCD for initial 90-day review
JAN 13
HCD first review letter published with comments
MAR 14
City Council Adoption of the 6th Cycle Housing Element
MAR 17
Re-Submittal of the Adopted Housing Element to HCD for a second review
MAY 16
HCD second review letter published with comments
AUG 8
City Council Meeting
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