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California State Law12 documented cases

California Environmental Quality Act

Commonly known as CEQA

State law requiring environmental review for most projects. Frequently weaponized by opponents to trigger costly appeals and delay housing even when environmental impacts are minimal.

How it's used against housing

Third-party appeals filed to add years and millions to project timelines.

Documented cases

Midway Rising — Midway District Sports Arena Redevelopment
San Diego · 4,254 units
Stalled
Howard Terminal Waterfront Housing
Oakland · 3,000 units
Withdrawn
One Redondo — AES Power Plant Waterfront Redevelopment
Redondo Beach · 2,700 units
Stalled
Vallco Town Center / The Rise
Cupertino · 2,669 units
Under Construction
Trammell Crow Sears Site Redevelopment
Glendale · 682 units
Approved
469 Stevenson Street Residential Tower
San Francisco · 495 units
Approved
Seaside Ridge — Del Mar North Bluff
Del Mar · 259 units
Stalled
Grady Ranch Affordable Housing
Unincorporated Marin County (Lucas Valley area) · 224 units
Withdrawn
Downtown Livermore Apartments (Eden Housing)
Livermore · 130 units
Under Construction
600 Foothill Boulevard Mixed-Use
La Cañada Flintridge · 80 units
Approved
Lot T Affordable Housing — 450 Lytton Avenue
Palo Alto · 72 units
Stalled
Dominican Valley Development
San Rafael · 64 units
Disputed