California’s Senate Bill 415 (SB 415), signed into law on October 3, 2025, serves as a much-needed refinement of Assembly Bill 98 (AB 98), which was a landmark effort to address the environmental and equity impacts of freight-intensive land uses, particularly in communities like the Inland Empire, where over 4,000 warehouses generate an estimated 600,000 truck trips daily.
California’s SB 415 builds on AB 98 by introducing clearer, enforceable standards for warehouse development, truck routes, and environmental protections. With a sharper focus on sustainability, public health, and local flexibility, SB 415 marks a major step toward smarter, cleaner freight infrastructure statewide.
Key changes introduced by SB 415
SB 415 marks a new chapter in California’s logistics land use policy, introducing clearer standards, stronger environmental safeguards, and more responsive local planning tools. These changes aim to modernize warehouse infrastructure, reduce community and environmental impacts, and ensure that logistics growth aligns with the state’s sustainability and equity goals.
Modernized Standards and Definitions for Logistics Development under SB 415
To support more sustainable and future-ready logistics development, SB 415 introduces new classifications and statewide standards for warehouse design, siting, and infrastructure.
- 21st Century Warehouse: Defines “21st century warehouses” with specific requirements including compliance with California’s latest green building codes, solar and EV readiness, efficient lighting and HVAC, cold storage power hookups, and a transition to zero-emission equipment.
- Tier 1 Warehouse: Includes the same requirements as 21st Century Warehouses, but with extra requirements for faster electrification, more robust EV infrastructure, and future-proofed energy systems -making it the gold standard for sustainable logistics development.
- Design and Siting Requirements: SB 415 establishes statewide standards for the design and location of new or expanded warehouses, including roadway siting requirements, and building design standards and attributes.
SB 415 Requirements for Local Truck Route Ordinances
To reduce traffic impacts on residential areas and sensitive land uses, SB 415 requires local governments outside designated warehouse concentration regions to adopt truck route ordinances. These must be in place by January 1, 2028 (or by 2030 for smaller cities) and must identify and establish designated truck routes for logistics developments. The goal is to better manage freight traffic while supporting community health, safety, and livability.
Environmental and Community Protections under SB 415
SB 415 builds on previous legislation to strengthen environmental protections and address public health concerns in communities impacted by warehouse development. It also introduces greater flexibility for local governments to adapt logistics regulations to their specific needs.
- Air Quality and Public Health: Reinforces the intent of AB 98 to mitigate air pollution and health impacts in communities disproportionately affected by warehouse proliferation, especially in regions like the Inland Empire and Central Valley.
- Local Flexibility: Gives cities and counties more flexibility to tailor logistics regulations to local conditions, addressing concerns that AB 98’s one-size-fits-all approach was too rigid.
While SB 415 resolves many of the ambiguities in AB 98, some questions remain about how these regulations will be enforced and adapted for various projects across diverse regions of the state. Still, SB 415 makes California’s logistics land use policy more practical, enforceable, and community-conscious, while still pushing for cleaner, more efficient freight infrastructure.
Navigating SB 415 with Confidence
If you're planning a new warehouse project in the wake of AB 98 and SB 415, now is the time to take a proactive, informed approach. FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS), an ADEC Innovation, helps clients comply with evolving regulatory requirements while balancing operational needs and sustainability goals, from early-stage feasibility and site selection through permitting, energy modeling, and compliance strategy. Our team can guide you through the process with clarity and confidence, saving you both time and money.
FCS comprises over 100 individuals offering due diligence, technical analysis, cultural resources, environmental compliance, permitting, planning, and mitigation/monitoring services for public and private projects. FCS has more than 40 years of experience navigating environmental complexities and securing project approvals. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help with your specific requirements.
This blog provides general information and does not constitute the rendering of legal, economic, business, or other professional services or advice. Consult with your advisors regarding the applicability of this content to your specific circumstances.
