The housing element is a component of San Dimas’ General Plan. The general plan serves as a blueprint for the future of a city, prescribing policy goals that shape and guide its development. State law requires that each and every city adopt a general plan containing at least seven elements, including the Housing Element. The Housing Element is required to plan for meeting existing and projected housing needs. The Housing Element is updated every 8 years and is subject to detailed statutory requirements and mandatory review by a State agency, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
Since its incorporation in 1960, the unprecedented growth of San Dimas has transformed the City from an essentially rural area to a well-balanced community offering industrial, commercial, and residential living. In addition to the 1,700 acre Frank G. Bonelli Recreational Area which lies within the City boundaries, there are many parks such as San Dimas Canyon Park, a city-owned golf course (San Dimas Canyon Golf Club), and over 27 miles of equestrian trails for riding. The city services include an extensive recreational program for youth and for senior citizens, and the City boasts a new modern City Hall, with excellent provisions made for County Sheriff and Fire Departments, along with a fine Los Angeles County Library and Engineering Regional Office.