The primary focus of the Housing Element is to identify current and projected housing needs within unincorporated areas in Marin, and to set forth specific implementation programs necessary to address these needs. The Marin County Housing Element is guided by the following State housing objectives:

• Provision of decent housing for all persons regardless of age, race, sex, marital status, source of income, or other arbitrary factors;
• Provision of adequate housing by location, type, price, and tenure; and,
• Development of a balanced residential environment including access to jobs, community facilities, and road services.

The County of Marin has prepared its Housing Element to meet State objectives and the other requirements of State law. The County's Housing Element was certified by the State in 1992. This revision strengthens the policies and programs of the State-certified Element.

Both population and the number of housing units in Marin grew rapidly between 1960 and 1970. In the 1970s and 1980s, population and housing growth slowed, while job growth accelerated. Other significant trends between 1960 and 1991 include the following: 1) the dramatic rise in the cost of housing; 2) a rise in the median age of the local population; and 3) decrease in family size.

A continuation of recent trends in Marin is projected for population, housing, and employment. Both the population and number of housing units are expected to continue increasing to the year 1995, although at a slower pace than job creation. As the population continues to age, household size will drop even further. It is anticipated that housing prices will continue to climb.

To increase the County's supply of affordable housing, the Element recommends revision of the County's zoning ordinance to increase inclusionary zoning requirements from 10 percent to 15 percent of the housing units in developments of 10 units or more and to require in lieu fees for developments of 2 to 9 units. An increased density bonus up to 25 percent is recommended for projects with more than half the units affordable to low or very low income households. The Element also recommends that small households should be accommodated by encouraging second units, shared housing programs, and the construction of smaller housing units.