California Land Use

Navigating California's Complex Legal Environment

California offers great promise and great challenges to property developers. While the opportunities are tremendous, the regulation of land use is notoriously complex. Every step of the way, there are “only in California” rules and considerations that must be addressed. The Mintz team of experienced land use attorneys can guide you through this difficult terrain, providing advice on every aspect of your real estate projects in California to help you achieve your goals quickly and efficiently.

Awards

U.S. News and Best Lawyers®

Ranked in Boston and San Francisco (2025) for Environmental Law and Litigation - Environmental, "Best Law Firms"

Best Lawyers in America

Jon Welner was named to the Best Lawyers in America list for environmental law, environmental litigation, natural resources law, and real estate law

Best Lawyers in America

Antony Nash was named to the Best Lawyers in America list for real estate litigation

Best Lawyers in America

Paul Churchill, Danny Guggenheim and Erin Natter were named to the Best Lawyers in America list for real estate law; Bill Squires for environmental law; Joe Dunn for bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights / insolvency and reorganization law

Our Experience

Building Renewable Power Facilities in California

Mintz’s California Land Use Practice Group advises clients on land use issues related to renewable energy projects in California. We help developers comply with a broad range of requirements and work with stakeholders as they seek approvals for projects amid the state’s massive expansion of its renewable energy capacity.

Advising Clients on Litigation Considerations and Pitfalls

Mintz’s California Land Use Practice Group counsels clients on avoiding or minimizing litigation risk and expense through arbitration and other contractual provisions, insurance policies, agreements with guarantors, and cost-effective litigation strategies. We also advise developers on California-specific environmental and wage laws.

Developer Overcomes Title Challenge to Complete 2,000-Unit Village

When a neighboring landlord threatened to derail our client’s development, Mintz identified and prosecuted a creative solution that prevailed in court — bringing a much-needed housing and commercial center to the San Diego marketplace.

Our Approach

In addition to navigating the approvals process, our team has the tools to address any related issues that might arise in your project. We have deep capabilities across all areas of environmental practice, including matters involving air, water, hazardous materials, hazardous waste, traditional and renewable energy, and natural resources. Our attorneys also have unique experience with development-related labor issues, including prevailing wage law and project labor agreements (PLAs). When our clients’ disputes do not end peacefully, we represent developers and landowners in a broad spectrum of litigation, from project appeals to tenant disputes. The team also includes former and current officials and stands ready to assist with communication at the state and local level. Other members of our team can provide insights on and resolve the complex tax issues that arise in real estate transactions.

Development Projects