Housing Element 2023-2031

RHNA Lets Talk Housing - Large.png

The update of the Housing Element 2023-2031 is just beginning!  The plan will include an overview of housing policies and programs as well as identify locations that can accommodate the future growth of housing.

Let's Talk Housing is a collaborative effort of all the jurisdictions in San Mateo County focused on getting community feedback that will shape our Housing Elements – a housing plan that is part of every General Plan. Through an ongoing initiative called 21 Elements, we are working together to learn from and listen to the community about their housing needs, helping to make sure everyone is involved in shaping our shared future.

Participate in Countywide Community Meetings

The shortage of homes impacts all of us. That’s why now is the time to participate in conversations and plan together for current and future housing needs in all our communities. See below for a list on Upcoming Meetings & Events. You can also see Prior Meeting Videos & Materials in the other tab below.

  1. Upcoming  Meetings & Events
  2. Prior Meeting Videos & Materials

Reunión comunitaria con el Comité del Elemento Vivienda en español.
El Comité will be hosting an introduction to the Housing Element Update in Spanish.

Lunes, Julio 26, 6:00pm-7:30pm
Monday, July 26, 6:00pm-7:30pm

Una oportunidad única en una década para planear el futuro de nuestras comunidades.
A unique opportunity in a decade to plan for the future of our communities.

Habrá traducción / interpretación al inglés para la sección introductoria, luego sesiones grupales en español.
There will be English translation/interpretation for the introductory section, then breakout sessions in Spanish.

General Plan and Housing Element Timeline

General Plan Housing Element Timeline Opens in new window

View .pdf version of the timeline

Stay Informed

General Plan Updates - Strive San Mateo

The City is updating its General Plan at the same time as it is drafting the new Housing Element.  The City wants all residents, business persons, and community members to have a voice in the future of San Mateo.  Visit the General Plan project website to see how you can get involved: http://strivesanmateo.org

Housing Programs and Policy Email Updates

More information will be added to this page when updates become available. Please check back frequently or sign up for the Housing Programs and Policy Updates email list to keep current on the progress and be notified of community events.

Background Information

In 2019, the City hosted “Community Conversations about Housing”.  To read what community members talked about, see the reports from two workshops on the Community Conversations webpage and select 'Feedback and Reports'.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information about the Housing Element, you may review and select a question from the list below and you will be directed to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) answers. We have also provided a PDF version of the FAQs you may download.

  1. What is the Housing Element?
  2. What happens if the City does not have an approved Housing Element?
  3. How are the City’s housing needs determined?
  4. How was the (2023-2031) RHNA determined?
  5. Why is San Mateo’s RHNA higher than rest of County?
  6. Can the RHNA be challenged?
  7. How does the RHNA impact the General Plan Update?
  8. Does Measure Y impact the Housing Element?
  9. When will the housing will be built?