Navigating the intricate web of land use, environmental regulations, and real estate development in California requires deep legal expertise and regulatory insight. At Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin (AGC), we bring more than 40 years of experience in guiding public agencies, developers, and private clients through complex legal, zoning, environmental, and development challenges. Whether addressing zoning issues, environmental compliance, or project approvals, AGC provides comprehensive legal solutions that ensure projects remain on track while meeting all regulatory demands.
Expertise in Land Use and Environmental Law
AGC has substantial experience across nearly all facets of land use and environmental law. Our team serves as legal counsel to numerous public agencies, including planning commissions, historic preservation commissions, and planning departments. We are also highly experienced litigation counsel in lawsuits that challenge or defend land use regulations and environmental issues. This broad scope of expertise, from zoning and planning law to environmental compliance, makes AGC a trusted legal partner for any land development or environmental project.
Our attorneys have deep experience in:
Zoning and Land Use Approvals
We help clients secure zoning approvals, variances, and entitlements by working closely with local planning authorities, city councils, and regulatory boards. Whether your project involves rezoning, pursuing conditional use permits, or defending against challenges, AGC provides expert legal guidance through every stage.
Subdivision and Parcel Mapping
Compliance with the Subdivision Map Act and local ordinances is a critical element of any development. Our attorneys help developers and public entities navigate the technical and legal requirements involved in subdivision maps and parcel mapping.
Real Estate Development and Economic Growth
AGC specializes in supporting economic development initiatives that promote sustainable growth and affordable housing while addressing community enhancement goals. Our legal team works with public agencies and private developers to craft public-private partnerships, pursue tax incentives, and ensure compliance with all regulations, including affordable housing mandates and development incentives.
General Plan Amendments and Specific Plans
For larger or more complex developments, amendments to the General Plan or the creation of Specific Plans may be necessary, AGC attorneys have the expertise to guide clients through these processes, ensuring that amendments meet all legal and policy requirements while aligning with local government goals.
Comprehensive Environmental Law Expertise
Environmental regulations are often the cornerstone of real estate development. AGC’s expertise spans the entire spectrum of environmental law, including compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Our attorneys offer strategic counsel on environmental impact assessments, endangered species protections, and the regulatory requirements governing wetlands, water quality, and air emissions.
CEQA Compliance and Litigation
Compliance with CEQA is often a significant challenge for development projects. AGC guides public agencies and private developers through the environmental review process, preparing and defending environmental impact reports (EIRs) and mitigating any legal challenges. Our attorneys are well-versed in representing clients in CEQA-related litigation, ensuring that developments proceed while meeting environmental protection standards.
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
To ensure ongoing compliance with CEQA, AGC assists clients in developing mitigation monitoring and reporting programs (MMRPs) to meet environmental requirements and avoid potential disputes. We ensure that public and private sector clients remain compliant with all mitigation requirements.
Legal Counsel for Real Estate Acquisition, Transactions, and Development
AGC provides full-service legal support for every aspect of real estate development, including property acquisition, financing, construction, leasing, and compliance with zoning and land use regulations. Our firm offers personalized legal guidance for:
Real Estate Acquisition and Transactions
AGC ensures that transactions comply with all zoning laws, land use regulations, and environmental standards, whether the client is acquiring property, structuring a public-private partnership, or navigating complex real estate agreements.
Construction Law and Disputes
AGC represents public agencies and developers in construction disputes related to project delays, defects, payment issues, and contractor performance. We work to resolve these disputes efficiently through negotiation, mediation, or, when necessary, litigation.
Proactive Legal Solutions for Land Use and Environmental Challenges
AGC takes a proactive approach to legal compliance, identifying potential challenges before they escalate into costly delays or litigation. Whether negotiating development agreements, securing project entitlements, or working through the complexities of environmental regulations, AGC offers practical, results-focused solutions to keep projects on track.
Our firm’s broad experience includes:
First Amendment Law in Land Use
AGC is one of the few firms with expertise in First Amendment law in the land use context, advising on the regulation of adult businesses, signage, and advertising. We have successfully litigated these matters in cases where such regulations were challenged.
Environmental Compliance
Our attorneys provide legal guidance on complying with environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, and the Endangered Species Act. We have extensive experience in toxic cleanup and hazardous material litigation under CERCLA and RCRA, helping clients resolve environmental challenges efficiently and in compliance with all regulations.
Dispute Resolution in Land Use and Environmental Law
Disputes are common in land use and real estate development. AGC attorneys are highly skilled at resolving conflicts through negotiation, mediation, and litigation. Whether defending zoning approvals, contesting environmental compliance challenges, or litigating land use disputes, AGC provides strategic legal representation that aligns with our clients’ goals.
Land Use Litigation
AGC represents clients in disputes over zoning, land use approvals, CEQA compliance, and other regulatory issues. We work diligently to protect our clients’ interests and resolve issues in a cost-effective and timely manner.
Environmental Litigation
AGC defends public agencies and private developers in environmental litigation before local, state, and federal courts. Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients before regulatory bodies such as the California Public Utilities Commission, the State Water Resources Control Board, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Partner with AGC for Land Use, Environmental, and Real Estate Solutions
With decades of experience, Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin is a trusted partner for public agencies navigating land use, environmental law, and real estate development. Our attorneys provide tailored legal solutions at every stage of development, from planning and zoning to project completion.
Contact AGC
To learn more about how AGC can assist with your land use, environmental compliance, or real estate development needs, contact us today. Our team is ready to help you achieve your project goals while ensuring full regulatory compliance and legal protection.