How Quimby Act Became O.C.’s Park Law

Orange County’s park-dedication law, enacted in 1971, is authorized by a measure passed by the California Legislature in 1965.

Now known as the Quimby Act, the law enables local governments throughout California to condition approval of a subdivision on a developer’s gift of land or fees for local park and recreation purposes. Depending on the density of a development--whether it is a collection of large, single-family homes or condominiums--the Quimby Act allows cities and counties to require up to 5 acres of land for every 1,000 new residents.

Faced with inexorable suburban growth, California cities pushed for the Quimby Act because they wanted the explicit authority from the Legislature to compel developers to provide land or fees for local parks.

At least 17 California counties and “well over 200” cities in the state now have local park codes in force, according to Sheri Erlewine, spokeswoman for the League of California Cities. A Times survey found that 26 of Orange County’s 29 cities have local park codes. Irvine and San Juan Capistrano are the only two that require the maximum 5 acres.

Sources: Interviews, California Government Code