Leaders in Los Angeles are expressing frustration over a state housing mandate that could significantly impact fire-damaged Altadena. Residents are understandably anxious about potential changes to their community.
A critical discussion is on the horizon for Wednesday, as lawmakers in Sacramento will review a bill designed to shield Altadena from state density regulations that opponents argue may lead to aggressive redevelopment by outside investors.
The Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee will evaluate Senate Bill 1090, known as the Keeping Altadena Land in Altadena Hands Act. Advocates claim that this legislation is essential to protect areas affected by January’s Eaton Fire from corporate real estate speculators eager to profit from the rebuilding efforts.
This bill, proposed by state Senator Sasha Renee Perez, a Democrat from Alhambra, would impose a five-year moratorium on state density laws, including SB 9 and SB 1123, within specific Altadena ZIP codes.
The anxiety and frustration among Altadena residents are palpable. Many worry that the state’s housing laws might permanently alter an area traditionally known for its single-family homes.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Berger emphasized the limitations that local officials face in opposing these laws. “I really can’t do anything other than ask our state senator to propose a bill,” she remarked.
The crux of the issue lies with SB 9 and SB 1123. SB 9, enacted in 2021, mandates that local governments permit multi-story homes and subdivisions on single-family lots, allowing up to four residences per plot while nullifying local requirements. Meanwhile, SB 1123, going into effect in July 2025, enables the rapid development of up to 10 housing units on vacant lots.
Berger warned that this could drastically reshape Altadena. “Such extensive construction will fundamentally alter the landscape,” she noted, questioning the narrative that these changes would lead to more affordable homeownership.
Meanwhile, frustrations are heightened since SB 1123 does not apply to Pacific Palisades, another area impacted by fire. Although Pacific Palisades is classified as a high fire hazard zone, Altadena is not, leaving it vulnerable under this law. Residents fear a surge in dense redevelopment following the Eaton Fire, which devastated 14,021 acres and destroyed nearly 9,418 structures in January 2025.
Concerns came to a head during a recent Altadena City Council meeting, which was attended by nearly 450 residents. Discussions largely revolved around redevelopment and state housing requirements. Observing the growing tensions, many were dismayed to learn that almost half of the properties sold in the burn zone has been acquired by developers.
Local residents expressed fears that increased density might erase Altadena’s character, straining essential resources like water, electricity, parking, and evacuation routes. The thought of developers using the aftermath of this disaster to reshape familiar neighborhoods, known for single-family homes and landmarks like the towering cedar trees along Christmas Tree Lane, troubled many.
This public hearing is part of a series of events aimed at recovery, including discussions on disaster relief, tenant protections, and governance in the Altadena and Pasadena areas. Berger has urged lawmakers to genuinely consider the perspectives of Altadena residents at two additional public hearings scheduled for July 1, as the debate about the community’s future rages on.
