Riverside Delays 2023 Housing Deadlines to 2027 Amid State Review

Riverside officials have rescheduled several housing policies originally due in 2023 for consideration in 2027, responding to state regulators who questioned the city's progress. The new timelines address zoning changes, accessibility standards, and fair housing assessments that state authorities previously flagged as overdue.

In a letter dated Oct. 15, the city responded to a Sept. 17 inquiry from the California Department of Housing and Community Development. The correspondence detailed plans to finalize policies regarding housing access, group homes, and fair housing. City Director Miranda Evans stated that the administration is treating its commitments to homelessness services and housing stability with serious attention, noting active work across multiple fronts to improve availability and affordability.

The city’s housing element requires planning for 18,458 new homes between 2021 and 2029. A March report indicated Riverside had issued permits for only 19.6% of that allocation, with most projects designated for above-moderate-income households. This low completion rate coincides with the city’s rejection of $20.1 million in state funding for a permanent supportive housing project in January. State regulators raised concerns about that rejection in February.

Specific zoning barriers remain in two residential zones controlled by voter-approved measures, Proposition R and Measure C. These measures restrict changes without a new public vote. The city plans to evaluate steps toward a ballot measure during a general plan update expected in winter 2027-28. Additionally, permit rules for group homes with seven or more residents will be addressed in a zoning code update delayed from fall 2026 to the first quarter of 2027.

State reviewers noted no progress on a policy for homes accessible to people with physical and sensory disabilities, which was due in September 2023. The city now targets a final policy for council review in fall 2027. A midcycle review of fair housing programs, also overdue since 2023, will begin with a consultant hire in early 2027, with completion set for July 1, 2027.

To demonstrate ongoing progress, the city cited The Place at Hulen, a 31-bed transitional housing site expected to open by the end of 2026. Officials are also discussing a 22-unit shared housing program with 10 Acre Ranch, anticipated for the second quarter of 2027. The letter described the new site as a first landing place for individuals exiting homelessness, offering treatment and supportive services.

An HCD spokesperson stated that the department is closely monitoring Riverside’s implementation and will evaluate next steps accordingly. The city’s prohousing designation, which provides priority access to state funding, expires at the end of this year. Maintaining that status requires compliance with housing element programs and state laws, including the enactment of proposed policies and implementation of fair housing obligations.