Programa Lotes Sociais: uma alternativa habitacional a partir das áreas institucionais desafetadas em Sorocaba (SP)

Abstract

This study analyzes the alternative developed by the municipal government of Sorocaba to address the housing needs of families specifically the Programa Lotes Sociais (PLS), implemented by the Department of Housing and Land Regularization (SEHAB). The PLS entails the transfer of ownership—via a conditional donation—of lots up to 125 m² to beneficiaries of the Auxílio Moradia program (municipal rent subsidy) or to families living in Areas of Special Social Interest (AEIS) where regularization was previously blocked. This process involves reclassifying public institutional land for residential use, subject to a technical feasibility study and legislative authorization. The study involved interviews with well-informed public officials responsible for designing, managing, and implementing the Social Lots proposal. Research findings indicate that the PLS expands housing options and helps reduce vulnerability. However, access to land does not immediately guarantee housing security, as the program's effectiveness depends on the responsibility for constructing the home a task requiring financial capacity, a reasonable level of technical know-how, and a stable income.