David H. Blackwell

Professional Biography

David is a land use partner in the San Francisco office with more than 20 years of experience helping developers, property owners, corporations, financial institutions, and other clients navigate California’s complex regulatory and political processes and secure development project approvals. He has obtained entitlements for a vast spectrum of projects across the state, including residential, office, industrial, retail, R&D, life sciences, agricultural, and renewable energy developments.

David first invoked the Density Bonus Law over a dozen years ago to secure approvals for affordable housing projects in the Bay Area. He is deeply experienced with the state’s housing statutes, and has worked with legislators and organizations to promote new legislation in this area, including the passage of SB 1227, SB 290, and AB 1287, which amended the Density Bonus Law.

David has worked on projects throughout California, and has particular depth in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to obtaining entitlements, David has litigated numerous land use cases and has secured published decisions for his clients on a broad variety of issues, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Subdivision Map Act, Elections Law, and the Mitigation Fee Act. He also serves on the firm's Management Committee.

David has published numerous articles, and is a co-author of Ballot Box Navigator: A Practical and Tactical Guide to Land Use Initiatives and Referenda in California, a comprehensive resource regarding local initiatives and referenda.

David currently serves as Chair of the ULI-San Francisco District Council, and has served on leadership positions with that organization for over a dozen years.

  • More Legal and Business Bylines From David H. Blackwell

 
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