California Sues Five Cities Over Housing Law Violations

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the Department of Housing and Community Development filed legal actions on July 16, 2026, against the cities of Costa Mesa, Calexico, Half Moon Bay, Ridgecrest, and Turlock. The lawsuits allege these jurisdictions failed to adopt compliant plans to accommodate their share of the 2.5 million additional homes required statewide by 2029.

Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, stated the litigation follows multiple opportunities for the cities to comply, asserting that no jurisdiction is exempt from state housing mandates. The state seeks unspecified fines, the temporary removal of authority to approve nonresidential developments, and a mandate for compliant housing elements within 120 days. Non-compliant cities may also face monthly civil penalties under Senate Bill 1037 or the Builder's Remedy, which restricts their ability to deny certain affordable housing projects.

Specific allegations vary by city. Half Moon Bay is accused of being over three years late in receiving state approval for a plan requiring 480 new units by 2031. Turlock is accused of failing to complete necessary rezoning despite having a draft element that meets statutory requirements. Costa Mesa is accused of failing to complete rezones for sites including the Fairview Development Center. Local leaders defended their actions: Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens called the suit unnecessary, while Turlock City Manager John J. Murphy stated the city has a clear path forward and plans to present a rezoning package on August 6.