Board Expands Where Congregate Living Facilities May Be Located

On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors adopted a zoning amendment that expands where congregate living facilities may be located and clarifies who these facilities may serve. The changes aim to support access to safe, stable housing with supportive services for people facing a range of challenges while ensuring the facilities are located in appropriate areas.

Updated Definition Reflects Who Facilities Serve

The zoning amendment updates how congregate living facilities are defined so it’s clear who these facilities are meant to support. Congregate living facilities typically serve more than eight residents or do not fall under the state rules that apply to group residential facilities. These facilities can offer short‑term or long‑term housing, along with on‑site services to a range of individuals but not limited to:

• Survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault
• Youth experiencing a crisis
• People experiencing homelessness
• Individuals or families who need behavioral or mental health support

The amendment also explains how these facilities are different from other types of housing:

• Group residential facilities: Serve up to eight residents and must meet specific state standards and licensing requirements.
• Group households: For four to 10 unrelated people living together without supportive services.
• Independent living or medical care facilities: Serve specific groups, such as older adults or people with disabilities, and offer either independent‑living arrangements or medical care.

More Zoning Districts Allow These Facilities

To increase flexibility and support more housing options, the amendment expands where congregate living facilities may be considered with special exception approval. Previously, these facilities were limited to certain residential and commercial districts. Under the new rules, they may also be proposed in:

• Additional commercial districts (C-5 through C-8)
• Industrial districts (I-2 through I-4)

This change allows providers to:

• Consider larger sites
• Repurpose vacant buildings
• Locate closer to public transportation and community services

New Standards for Location

The amendment adds standards to help ensure facilities are located in suitable and livable areas. In commercial and some industrial districts, facilities must be:

• Within walking distance of public transportation
• Close to community services
• Within commuting distance of employment areas

Additional Information Required for Applications

As part of the special exception process, applicants must now provide more details about how their facility will operate. This includes:

• The population the facility plans to serve
• The types of supportive services offered
• Staffing levels
• Typical length of stay for residents
• Proof of licensing when required

Supporting Housing While Protecting Neighborhood Compatibility

The adopted amendment expands opportunities for residents to access supportive housing while helping ensure compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods and long-range land use plans. The changes follow research, coordination among county agencies, and community outreach during the development of the amendment.

Learn more about the newly approved amendment on the Department of Planning and Development website.