Land Use,
Environmental & Energy
Jan. 2, 2026
SB 131: CEQA exemptions expand for housing, infrastructure, water and clean energy projects
Sheri L. Bonstelle
Partner
Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP
Email: syb@jmbm.com
Sheri's practice focuses on land use, zoning, environmental, litigation and construction matters. She manages all aspects of the entitlement process, including representing clients before local and state agencies, commissions and councils.
SB 131 creates a wide range of new, statutory exemptions under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for housing, water, clean energy and infrastructure projects. The budget trailer bill was signed by the Governor and operative on June 30, 2025. The bill was largely based on Sen. Scott Wiener's proposed SB607 and includes the "near miss" provision for housing projects that almost qualify for a CEQA exemption, but for a single condition. SB131 also provides a statuto...
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