Density bonuses typically require what from developers?

• A. Build only luxury units
• B. Set aside a portion of units as affordable
• C. Skip reviews
• D. Pay higher taxes

Answer: (B)

Density bonuses operate as an incentive that trades higher allowed density for a public benefit related to housing affordability. In practice, developers receive the ability to build more units than the base zoning would normally permit, but in return they must set aside a portion of the project’s units as affordable to households at specified income levels (often on-site, and sometimes through an in-lieu option or other support). This ensures there’s a measurable affordable component within the larger, denser development.

That’s why setting aside affordable units is the best answer: it captures the core bargain of density bonuses—more units overall in exchange for a share that remain affordable. The other options don’t fit the concept: density bonuses aren’t about only luxury units, skipping reviews, or paying higher taxes.