In January 2025, we wrote about how bulk controls ban the traditional stacked 6-plex in over 80% of Sacramento. The zoning code update is coming, and things are still looking bad for the 6-plex. This Tuesday, Council will hear preliminary plans to codify housing standards, and your help is needed.
The problem with staff’s proposal
In FAR 1.0 areas (80%+ of the city), staff propose “House Scale” standards capping eave height at 24 ft, making a 3rd floor financially infeasible. Traditional stacked 6-plexes would remain effectively banned.
In FAR 2.0 areas (near transit), new width and depth standards could further limit 6-plexes even in transit zones.
Why this matters beyond the housing crisis
Sacramento has a liability time bomb — infrastructure maintenance backlogs are growing and the city can’t keep up. Allowing 6-plexes on lots already served by streets and utilities makes neighborhoods more productive without adding new liability. Conversely, banning them pushes growth to the fringe, adding millions in deferred costs.
How you can help
- Submit an e-comment by end of Monday, April 13.
- Item #3: 2040 General Plan and Zoning Consistency: Missing Middle Housing (MMH) and Senate Bill (SB) 79 Workshop
- Position: Oppose
- Show up to comment at City Hall at 5 PM on Tuesday, April 14.
- Need support? Join our Power Hour at 4 PM at Immortal Cafe to prep public comments together.
What to ask council for:
- Allow flat-roof buildings up to the full 35 ft in every neighborhood by eliminating the proposed 24′ eave height cap. Some Commissioners supported this at the March workshop.
- No new width/depth restrictions on top of already existing setback requirements. Stacking new restrictions on existing setbacks would effectively downzone suburbs.
Sacramento can’t climb out of its structural deficit without first embracing traditional development.