For Immediate Release  
Date: 2/11/2025

Orange County Board of Supervisors Adopts General Housing Element Plan, Empowering Local Zoning Control

SANTA ANA, CA – Supervisor Don Wagner joined his colleagues on the Board of Supervisors to adopt a comprehensive general housing element plan for Orange County. This decision underscores the County’s commitment to balancing community housing needs while reaffirming the role of local governments in determining zoning regulations.

The Board’s action aligns with the principles outlined in a recent U.S. Court of Appeals ruling in The Ohio House, LLC v. City of Costa Mesa. This landmark decision upheld the authority of municipalities to regulate group-living facilities, including sober-living homes, through zoning laws that ensure local control is maintained as it relates to this sensitive issue.

“The adoption of this plan demonstrates our dedication to local control over zoning decisions while ensuring we remain compliant with federal and state housing laws,” said Supervisor Wagner. “The court’s ruling in favor of Costa Mesa reinforces the ability of cities within Orange County to establish reasonable regulations that serve the best interests of all residents.”

The court’s decision in the Ohio House case provided key guidance for municipalities:

Zoning Laws for Community Balance: Costa Mesa’s requirement for conditional-use permits and separation regulations for group homes with more than six residents was upheld as lawful and reasonable.

Fair Housing Compliance: The regulations were found to be consistent with the Fair Housing Act, ensuring they benefit all community members.

Local Government Authority: The ruling reinforced the right of cities to enforce zoning ordinances.

Supervisor Wagner emphasized that Orange County’s housing element plan reflects these principles by complying with state housing mandates while maintaining respect for local zoning autonomy.

To learn more about the Third District office, please visit donwagnerca.com and follow him on social media @donwagnerca for the latest updates.

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