SCAG Launches 7th Cycle RHNA Process with Schedule and Subcommittee

SCAG’s Regional Council officially kicked off the 7th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) process on June 4 by approving membership for a new RHNA Subcommittee. The RHNA process, which occurs in eight-year cycles, ensures that local governments plan for adequate housing to meet current and future needs at all income levels. As a state-mandated process under California Government Code Section 65584, RHNA supports cities and counties in advancing affordability, sustainability, and fair housing goals. 

SCAG coordinates the RHNA process for the six-county region, including development of the allocation methodology, public outreach, draft allocations, and the appeals process. Starting in summer 2026, SCAG will convene the RHNA Subcommittee to provide feedback and support. The subcommittee will oversee the process, review public input, and make recommendations to the Regional Council and the Community, Economic, and Human Development policy committee. To increase geographic population representation, the RHNA Subcommittee’s membership was expanded for the 7th cycle in both the number of members per county and the total number of members. 

SCAG will provide additional opportunities for jurisdictions, stakeholders, and community members to attend meetings, review materials, and provide public comment throughout the RHNA process. 

SCAG’s current RHNA schedule follows: 

• August 2026: RHNA Subcommittee kickoff meeting
• October 2026: The California Department of Housing and Community Development issues the Regional Housing Needs Determination
• September 2026-April 2027: Development of proposed RHNA methodology
• Spring-Summer 2027: Public hearings and comment period on methodology
• October 2027: Draft RHNA methodology submitted to HCD
• April 2028: Release of draft RHNA allocation plan
• Spring-Summer 2028: RHNA appeals hearings
• October 2028: Adoption of final RHNA allocation plan 

*subject to change 

Visit the SCAG RHNA website for more information or subscribe to SCAG updates to stay up to date on RHNA.