Author name: Francine Pimentel, formerly Farrell

The California Legislature adjourned its 2025 session on September 13, passing several major bills, including updates important to planning practice. One significant development is SB 415, which amends AB 98 (2024) by providing more flexibility and clarity for jurisdictions regarding new warehouse standards and truck route requirements. Jurisdictions outside the Warehouse Concentration Region can adopt ordinances instead of circulation element updates, with extended timelines for smaller cities and counties. An off-ramp is available for jurisdictions without logistics use developments, and safe harbor protections are included for those making good faith efforts to comply. Additional amendments address development standards, applicability, enforcement, and general statute clean-up. The bill awaits the Governor’s signature to take effect January 1, 2026. For further legislative updates, APA California invites members to the Annual Conference session on September 30 in Monterey.