Navigating the complex legal landscape of housing development requires deep knowledge and experience. At Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin (AGC), we provide comprehensive legal services to public agencies, developers, and stakeholders involved in housing projects across California and the United States. With more than 40 years of experience, we guide clients through the intricate web of regulations, community relations, and legal requirements tied to residential and mixed-use developments.
Our firm has a specialized understanding of housing laws, land use regulations, affordable housing mandates, and environmental compliance. We offer practical, results-focused legal solutions to help public entities implement housing policies and assist developers in meeting regulatory requirements, ensuring that projects move forward efficiently and within legal frameworks.
Expertise in Housing Development Law
Housing development involves various legal, regulatory, and community challenges. AGC’s attorneys bring extensive expertise across the full range of housing development law, providing clear guidance from the project’s inception to its completion. We have experience advising clients on all aspects of residential and mixed-use development, including:
Zoning and Land Use Approvals
We assist clients in securing necessary land use and zoning approvals from local governments, ensuring compliance with existing regulations or securing variances to facilitate project development.
Affordable Housing Mandates
AGC guides developers through the complex requirements of affordable housing regulations, such as density bonus laws, inclusionary housing policies, and state-level mandates. We ensure compliance while balancing feasibility and project goals.
Permitting and Entitlements
Our attorneys offer full support throughout the permitting and entitlement process, addressing environmental clearances, building permits, and other approvals necessary to keep projects on track and minimize delays.
Environmental Impact Reviews
We provide expert guidance on complying with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), preparing and defending Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs), and ensuring mitigation measures are met.
Comprehensive Public Housing Legal Services
AGC’s expertise extends beyond private developments, encompassing public housing law and public agency support. We have extensive experience assisting cities, redevelopment agencies, and housing authorities with a wide range of housing-related legal matters. Our services include:
HUD Compliance for Section 8 Programs
AGC routinely advises cities and public housing authorities on implementing HUD regulations for Section 8 housing programs, ensuring compliance with federal requirements and promoting equitable access to housing.
Public-Private Partnerships (P3)
We assist in structuring and negotiating public-private partnerships that balance public and private interests, facilitating the development of affordable and market-rate housing projects through innovative funding and land-use strategies.
Relocation for Redevelopment Projects
We advise public entities on relocation requirements for redevelopment and public projects, ensuring legal compliance and minimizing disruption for affected communities.
Nuisance Abatement and Public Safety Programs
AGC partners with public agencies to address housing-related public safety concerns, including nuisance abatement programs, neighborhood revitalization efforts, and the regulation of residential care facilities and recovery homes.
Public-Private Development and Affordable Housing
AGC is committed to advancing public housing initiatives and supporting both public agencies and developers. We assist local governments and housing developers in navigating complex housing regulations, securing government approvals, and meeting affordable housing mandates. Our legal services cover:
Government Approvals
We work with public agencies and developers to formulate strategies for obtaining government approvals for housing projects, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal housing regulations.
Public-Private Partnerships
Our attorneys have in-depth experience structuring land conveyance transactions and securing funding from government agencies for public-private housing development projects. We offer legal counsel on public-private partnerships aimed at developing affordable housing while balancing the needs of both parties.
Addressing Regulatory Challenges in Housing Development
The housing sector faces numerous federal, state, and local regulations, requiring developers and public agencies to navigate these challenges with precision. AGC helps clients overcome regulatory hurdles, ensuring compliance and successful project execution. Our regulatory services include:
CEQA Compliance
We guide clients through the CEQA process, ensuring environmental compliance and defending environmental reports against legal challenges, enabling projects to progress smoothly.
Fair Housing and ADA Compliance
AGC advises clients on compliance with federal and state fair housing laws, ensuring that developments meet anti-discrimination regulations, accessibility standards, and housing equity goals.
Rent Control and Tenant Protection
Our attorneys assist developers and property owners in adhering to rent control and tenant protection laws, advising on local rent stabilization regulations, eviction procedures, and tenant rights to minimize legal risks.
AGC’s Advocacy for Housing Policy and Community Revitalization
AGC’s commitment to housing policy advocacy sets us apart. We collaborate with public agencies to draft and implement housing policies that address local needs, particularly in affordable housing and tenant protection. Our attorneys also engage in legislative advocacy, working to influence housing laws that support the development of sustainable, equitable housing solutions.
AGC’s experience with public housing agreements is extensive, offering our public agency clients a distinct advantage when negotiating with private developers and non-profit housing providers. We’ve represented both private sector and public sector clients in negotiating owner participation agreements, low-income housing contracts, and other development agreements for large- and small-scale affordable housing projects. This dual perspective allows us to approach negotiations with a deep understanding of both public and private sector needs, ensuring the best outcomes for our clients.
Partner with AGC for Successful Housing Development
Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin is dedicated to supporting public agencies and private developers in their housing development efforts. Our experienced attorneys offer clear, strategic legal counsel to guide housing projects through the complex regulatory landscape. Whether you are developing affordable housing, mixed-use projects, or large-scale public-private partnerships, we provide the legal expertise you need to navigate challenges and achieve your goals.
Ready to Move Your Project Forward?
Contact Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin to learn how we can assist with your housing development and regulatory needs. With more than 40 years of experience, we are here to ensure your project is legally sound and designed for long-term success. Let AGC help you achieve your housing development objectives with confidence.