Media Release
The City of South Pasadena is hosting two community meetings to provide information about Senate Bill (SB) 79, discuss the City’s obligations under the new state law, and share the priorities the City is considering for implementing the legislation while balancing local priorities and community concerns.
Residents are invited to attend either of the following meetings:
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July 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Library Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
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July 30, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers, 1424 Mission Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030
SB 79, also known as the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, establishes new state requirements that affect land use and development standards near major transit stops. Effective July 1, 2026, the law requires cities throughout California, including South Pasadena, to allow increased residential development in designated transit areas, overriding certain local zoning regulations.
Cities can comply with SB 79 in several ways. They may apply the state law directly; update their zoning to allow taller buildings, more homes, or mixed-use development near transit stations; or prepare a locally tailored alternative plan that redistributes where growth occurs within transit areas while providing the same overall housing capacity required by the law.
The community meetings will include an overview of SB 79, an explanation of the City’s implementation options, the priorities staff are considering as they develop an alternative plan, and an opportunity for residents to ask questions and learn more about the process.
City staff are expected to present recommendations for an alternative plan to the City Council at its meeting on August 4, 2026.
To view Senate Bill No. 79, visit https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. To contact the City of South Pasadena Community Development Department, call (626) 403-7220.
