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Article 2. Form

Part 2A. Introduction

Div. 2A.1. Orientation

Sec. 2A.1.1. Relationship to Zone String

A zone string is composed of the following districts:

Graphic showing the zoning components 'form', 'frontage', 'standards', 'use', and 'density' with form districts hightlighting 'form'.

The Form District is a separate and independent component of each zone.

Sec. 2A.1.2. How to Use Article 2. (Form)

  1. Identify the Applicable Form District

    The first component in a zone string is the Form District applied to a property.

  2. Determine Applicable Form District Standards
    1. Form Districts standards are outlined in Part 2B. (Form Districts). Each Form District page identifies the standards specific to that Form District.

    2. Each standard on a Form District page in Part 2B. (Form Districts) provides a reference to Part 2C. (Form Rules) where the standard is explained in detail. Text in italics below a heading provides a definition of that heading.

      Diagram explaining how to locate and apply form district standards in a Zoning Code. The example highlights the zone string ‘LM2 MU2-5 [RG1-FA]’ and identifies the ‘LM2’ section as the applied form district. The image references Part 2B for Form Districts, showing diagrams of lot parameters and building mass with labeled sections for form categories and standards. It then directs the viewer to Part 2C for Form Rules, where detailed building regulations are listed. Green callout boxes guide users to ‘Find Your Applied Form District’ and ‘Find Your Rules.’

Sec. 2A.1.3. Form District Diagrams

  1. General

    Diagrams and illustrations within this Article (Form) are provided to assist users in understanding the intent and requirements of the text. In the event a conflict occurs between the text of this Article (Form) and any illustration or graphic, the text prevails.

  2. Lot Parameter Diagrams

    1. Lot Boundary

      This line represents the perimeter of the subject lot, serving as a reference for both lot area and lot width.

    2. Buildable Area

      This shape represents the area on a lot where buildings are allowed, reduced by required building setbacks, or the lot boundary when no setback is required.

    3. Building Setbacks

      The area between a lot boundary and the minimum required setback, represented with a dotted white line and bounded by the buildable area.

    4. Building Coverage

      This shape represents the total building coverage allowed in proportion to the lot area, but does not reflect any requirement as to the location or configuration of any buildings or structures.

    5. Lot Amenity Space

      This shape represents the total lot amenity space required in proportion to the lot area, but does not reflect any requirement as to the location or configuration of any amenity space.

  3. Bulk and Mass Diagrams
    1. General
      1. Bulk and mass diagrams represent the volume where a building is allowed to be located by showing the maximum height allowed for the entire buildable area. Except for House, Estate, and Rural Form Districts, the volume does not represent the massing of an allowed building. Other standards, such as maximum building coverage and floor area ratio (FAR), may limit the ability for a building to fill the full volume.

      2. Form Districts (Part 2B.) that include a maximum height standard and those tthat do not include a height limit are represented differently in the bulk and mass diagram.

    2. Districts with a Maximum Height Standard

      1. Maximum Bonus Height

        Maximum bonus height represents the maximum number of stories allowed beyond the number of stories allowed by the maximum base height in stories.

      2. Maximum Base Height

        Maximum base height represents the number of stories allowed without providing public benefits in trade for additional height according to Article 9. (Public Benefit Systems).

      3. Minimum Height

        Minimum height represents the lowest number of stories required.

    3. Districts with no Maximum Height Standard

      1. Unlimited Height

        This volume represents the building height allowed, in addition to the likely height of the building based on maximum Base FAR.

      2. Likely Height Based on Bonus FAR

        This volume represents the likely building height based on the maximum allowed bonus FAR, in addition to the likely height of the building based on maximum base FAR.

      3. Likely Height Based on Base FAR

        This volume represents the likely building height based on the maximum allowed base FAR, in addition to the minimum required height of the building.

      4. Minimum Height

        This volume represents the minimum number of stories required.

Sec. 2A.1.4. Form District Naming Convention

There are three different types of naming conventions for Form Districts (Part 2B.). Each Form District name is composed of a variety of components that are specific to that district.

  1. Rural & Estate Form Districts

    [Reserved]

  2. House Form Districts

    House Form Districts include a range and combination of building coverage, scale, and massing parameters that are intended to produce what is commonly understood as a house. House forms are laid out as detached, or semi-detached, buildings with set-back requirements from the street and lot lines, along with building coverage limitations intended to preserve space for yards and open space. Building widths are narrow, ranging from 50-feet to an upper limit of 100-feet. Building heights are limited by a prescribed number of feet rather than stories, and building scale is further limited by floor area ratio maximums ranging from 0.45 to an upper limit of 1.0. Additional controls are applied to shape upper-story building mass to produce roof forms common on houses.

  3. All Other Form Districts

    All other Form District names are composed of three components:

    1. FAR Category

      The first component of each Form District name is a floor area ratio (FAR) category. FAR categories group all districts within a range of maximum allowed FAR. FAR categories are organized as follows:

      1. Very Low-Rise (>0.6-1.5 FAR)

      2. Low-Rise (>1.5-4.0 FAR)

      3. Mid-Rise (>4.0-6.0 FAR)

      4. Moderate-Rise (>6.0-8.5 FAR)

      5. High-Rise (>8.5-13.0 FAR)

    2. Building Width Category

      The second component of each Form District name is a building width category. Building width categories group all districts within a range of maximum allowed building width. Each building width category is organized as follows:

      1. Narrow (25 feet - 75 feet)

      2. Medium (100 feet - 210 feet)

      3. Broad (280 feet - 490 feet)

      4. Full (no building width maximum)

    3. Variation Number

      The last component of each Form District is a variation number. All Form Districts are numbered in the order they fall within this Article (Form).

    4. Example Form District

      Potential Form District categories are shown below to illustrate the naming convention that would be applied to new Form Districts that may be added to this Article (Form) through future code amendments.

Div. 2A.2. General Rules

Sec. 2A.2.1. Form

This Article (Form) regulates the placement, scale, and intensity of buildings and structures on a lot in order to ensure building forms are compatible with their context and promote projects that support community goals.

Sec. 2A.2.2. Form Applicability

  1. General

    All projects filed after the effective date of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) shall comply with the Form District standards in this Article (Form), as further specified in the applicability statement of each Section in Part 2C. (Form Rules). Form District standards only apply to the project activities listed in each Section's applicability statement in Part 2C. (Form Rules). For vested rights, see Sec. 1.4.5. (Vested Rights), and for continuance of existing development, see Sec. 1.4.6. (Continuance of Existing Development).

  2. Applicable Components of Lots, Buildings, & Structures

    Unless otherwise provided, Form District (Part 2B.) standards apply to all portions of a lot and all buildings and structures on a lot.

  3. Nonconformities

    Article 12. (Nonconformities) may provide relief from the requirements of this Article (Form) for existing lots, site improvements, buildings, structures, and uses that conformed to the zoning regulations, at the time they were established, but do not conform to current district standards or use permissions. All project activities shall conform with Form District (Part 2B.) standards unless otherwise specified by Div. 12.2. (Form Exceptions).

Part 2B. Form Districts

Div. 2B.1. Rural Form Districts

[Reserved].

Div. 2B.2. Estate Form Districts

[Reserved].

Div. 2B.3. House Form Districts

[Reserved]

Sec. 2B.3.1. House 1 (H1)

[Reserved]

Sec. 2B.3.2. House 2 (H2)

[Reserved]

Sec. 2B.3.3. House 3 (H3)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square is on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

4,000 sf

Lot width (min)

40'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

65%

Building setbacks

B

Primary street (min)

10'

Side street (min)

5'

C

Side (min)

3'

D

Rear (min)

3'

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot Amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a house on a street.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

0.6

A

Height in feet (max)

33'

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

50'

Building break (min)

6'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

B

Wall plate height (max)

22'

Div. 2B.4. Very Low-Rise Narrow Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Very Low-Rise Narrow Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 0.6 to 1.5, and a maximum building width ranging from 25 to 75 feet.

Sec. 2B.4.1. Very Low-Rise Narrow 1 (VN1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green field with a white line.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

4,000 sf

Lot width (min)

40'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

a

Building coverage (max)

65%

Building setbacks

b

Primary street (min)

10'

Side street (min)

5'

c

Side (min)

3'

Rear (min)

3'

d

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A white building is shown on a street.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.0

Bonus (max)

1.5

A

Height in stories (max)

4

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Building Width (max)

50'

Building break (min)

6'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Wall plate height (max)

34'

Div. 2B.5. Very Low-Rise Medium Form Districts

[Reserved].

Sec. 2B.5.1. Very Low-Rise Medium 1 (VM1)

A.Lot Parameters

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

a

Building coverage (max)

85%

Building setbacks

b

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

c

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

d

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

15'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

30%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) max

1.5

A

Height in feet (max)

45'

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.5.2. Very Low-Rise Medium 2 (VM2)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a white background.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

B

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

D

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A white building is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) max

1.5

A

Height in feet (max)

65'

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.6. Very Low-Rise Broad Form Districts

[Reserved].

Div. 2B.7. Very Low-Rise Full Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Very Low-Rise Full Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 0.6 to 1.5, and no maximum building width.

Sec. 2B.7.1. Very Low-Rise Full 1 (VF1)

A.Lot Parameters

A street map with a line going through the middle of it.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

25%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: River (min)

10'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

Not applicable

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a blue roof.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

1.5

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Not applicable

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.7.2. Very Low-Rise Full 2 (VF2)

A.Lot Parameters

A street map with a line going through the middle of it.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

a

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

b

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

c

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

d

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

Not applicable

B.Bulk and Mass

A white square with a black arrow pointing up.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

1.5

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Not applicable

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.8. Low-Rise Narrow Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Low-Rise Narrow Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 1.6 to 4.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 25 to 75 feet.

Sec. 2B.8.1. Low-Rise Narrow 1 (LN1)

A.Lot Parameters

A blue and white drawing of a tennis court.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

A

Lot area (min)

2,500 sf

B

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

C

Building coverage (max)

80%

Building setbacks

D

Primary street (min)

5'

Side street (min)

0'

E

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

F

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

G

Lot amenity space (min)

25%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building on a street.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

3.0

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

3

B

Bonus (max)

6

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

75'

Building break (min)

6'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

D

Stories without step-back (max)

4

E

Primary street step-back depth (min)

10'

Side street step-back depth (min)

10'

F

Height transition

Required

Div. 2B.9. Low-Rise Medium Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Low-Rise Medium Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 1.6 to 4.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 100 to 210 feet.

Sec. 2B.9.1. Low-Rise Medium 1 (LM1)

A.Lot Parameters

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

b

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

c

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

d

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

e

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

f

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

3.0

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

8

B

Bonus (max)

10

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.9.2. Low-Rise Medium 2 (LM2)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

A

Lot area (min)

2,500 sf

B

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

C

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

D

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

E

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

F

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

G

Lot amenity space (min)

25%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A building is shown on a street map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

3.0

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

3

B

Bonus (max)

6

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

100'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.9.3. Low-Rise Medium 3 (LM3)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

B

Building setbacks

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

10'

D

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A building is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

2.5

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

2

B

Bonus (max)

4

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

E

Building width (max)

140'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

C

Stories without step-back (max)

2

D

Primary street step-back depth (min)

10'

Side street step-back depth (min)

None

Sec. 2B.9.4. Low-Rise Medium 4 (LM4)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a white background.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

b

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

D

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

10'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building on a street.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

3.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Height transition

Required

Sec. 2B.9.5. Low-Rise Medium 5 (LM5)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

B

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

D

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A 3D model of a building is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

2.0

Bonus (max)

4.0

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

7

B

Bonus (max)

11

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Height transition

Required

Sec. 2B.9.6. Low-Rise Medium 6 (LM6)

A.Lot Parameters

A map of a park with a green and purple square in the middle.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

B

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

D

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

10'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a street sign that says "Farming Street."

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

4.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

b

Building width (max)

140'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Height transition

Required

Sec. 2B.9.7. Low-Rise Medium 7 (LM7)

A.Lot Parameters

A white drawing of a soccer field.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

A

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

B

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

C

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

Alley (min)

0'

D

Special: All (min)

15'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

E

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a staircase with a number 6 on the bottom step.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

4.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

b

Building width (max)

140'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

C

Height transition

Required

Applicable lot line:

Special

Div. 2B.10. Low-Rise Broad Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Low-Rise Broad Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 1.6 to 4.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 280 to 490 feet.

Sec. 2B.10.1. Low-Rise Broad 1 (LB1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a square on the side.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

3.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.10.2. Low-Rise Broad 2 (LB2)

A.Lot Parameters

Diagram shows the lot parameters for a rectangular site bordered by a primary street and an alley. Illustrates the buildable area and the designated lot amenity space within the lot. Shows lot width, building coverage, and setback requirements for the primary street, side, and alley, as described in the table below.

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: River (min)

10'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building on a street.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

3.0

A

Height in stories (max)

5

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

280'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.11. Low-Rise Full Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Low-Rise Full Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 1.6 to 4.0, and no maximum building width.

Sec. 2B.11.1. Low-Rise Full 1 (LF1)

A.Lot Parameters

A street map with a purple line on it.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

Not applicable

B.Bulk and Mass

Diagram shows a building mass on a rectangular site bordered by a primary street and an alley. Illustrates base FAR and maximum height, as described in the table below.

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

3.0

a

Height (max)

None

City Hall Height Restriction

Required

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Not applicable

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.11.2. Low-Rise Full 2 (LF2)

A.Lot Parameters

A map of a street with a purple line on it.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

20'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: River (min)

10'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

Not applicable

B.Bulk and Mass

A building is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

3.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Not applicable

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.12. Mid-Rise Narrow Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Mid-Rise Narrow Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 4.1 to 6.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 25 to 75 feet.

Sec. 2B.12.1. Mid-Rise Narrow 1 (MN1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: Alley (min)

0'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A person is standing in front of a building.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

6.0

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

3

B

Bonus (max)

5

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

75'

Building break (min)

6'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.13. Mid-Rise Medium Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Mid-Rise Medium Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 4.1 to 6.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 100 to 210 feet.

Sec. 2B.13.1. Mid-Rise Medium 1 (MM1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: River (min)

10'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

Diagram shows a building mass on a square site bordered by a primary street and an alley.  Illustrates the maximum base and bonus heights and maximum building width, as described in the table below.

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

4.5

Height in stories

A

Base (max)

15

B

Bonus (max)

18

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.14. Mid-Rise Broad Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Mid-Rise Broad Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 4.1 to 6.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 280 to 490 feet.

Sec. 2B.14.1. Mid-Rise Broad 1 (MB1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a number 2 on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

1.5

Bonus (max)

6.0

Height in stories

A

Minimum (Bonus)

10

b

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

c

Building width (max)

280'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.14.2. Mid-Rise Broad 2 (MB2)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A 3D model of a building is displayed on a computer screen.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

6.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

280'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.15. Mid-Rise Full Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Mid-Rise Full Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 4.1 to 6.0, and no maximum building width.

[Reserved]

Div. 2B.16. Moderate-Rise Medium Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Moderate-Rise Medium Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 6.1 to 8.5, and a maximum building width ranging from 100 to 210 feet.

Sec. 2B.16.1. Moderate-Rise Medium 1 (DM1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: Alley (min)

0'

Special: Other (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A building is shown on a street map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

8.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.16.2. Moderate-Rise Medium 2 (DM2)

A.Lot Parameters

A map of a city with a purple square on it.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

90%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

15%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A building is shown on a street map.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

8.5

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.16.3. Moderate-Rise Medium 3 (DM3)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a blue street sign.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

8.5

Height in stories

A

Minimum

3

B

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

D

Stories without step-back (min/max)

2/12

E

Primary street step-back depth (min)

30'

Side street step-back depth (min)

30'

Sec. 2B.16.4. Moderate-Rise Medium 4 (DM4)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a number 2 on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

6.0

Bonus (max)

8.5

Height in stories

a

Minimum

6

b

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

D

Stories without step-back (min/max)

2/12

E

Primary street step-back depth (min)

30'

Side street step-back depth (min)

30'

Sec. 2B.16.5. Moderate-Rise Medium 5 (DM5)

A.Lot Parameters
A purple square is on the ground.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

Diagram shows a building mass on a square site bordered by a primary street and an alley. Illustrates the maximum base and bonus heights, maximum building width, minimum and maximum stories without step-back and minimum primary street step-back depth, as described in the table below.

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

6.0

Bonus (max)

8.5

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

160'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

C

Stories without step-back (min/max)

2/5

D

Primary street step-back depth (min)

10'

Side street step-back depth (min)

10'

Div. 2B.17. Moderate-Rise Broad Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Moderate-Rise Broad Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 6.1 to 8.5, and a maximum building width ranging from 280 to 490 feet.

[Reserved]

Div. 2B.18. Moderate-Rise Full Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each Moderate-Rise Full Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 6.1 to 8.5, and no maximum building width.

Sec. 2B.18.1. Moderate-Rise Full 1 (DF1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

95%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a blue roof.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

6.5

a

Height (max)

None

City Hall Height Restriction

Required

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

Not applicable

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.19. High-Rise Medium Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each High-Rise Medium Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 8.6 to 13.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 100 to 210 feet.

Sec. 2B.19.1. High-Rise Medium 1 (HM1)

A.Lot Parameters

A map of a building with a green roof.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a blue arrow pointing to it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

13.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

C

Stories without step-back (min/max)

2/12

D

Primary street step-back depth (min)

30'

Side street step-back depth (min)

30'

Sec. 2B.19.2. High-Rise Medium 2 (HM2)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple building is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

10%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a street sign on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

6.0

Bonus (max)

13.0

Height in stories

a

Minimum

10

b

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

210'

Building break (min)

15'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Street step-back

D

Stories without step-back (min/max)

2/12

E

Primary street step-back depth (min)

30'

Side street step-back depth (min)

30'

Div. 2B.20. High-Rise Broad Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each High-Rise Broad Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 8.6 to 13.0, and a maximum building width ranging from 280 to 490 feet.

Sec. 2B.20.1. High-Rise Broad 1 (HB1)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green tennis court is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A 3D model of a building is displayed on a computer screen.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

3.0

Bonus (max)

10.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.20.2. High-Rise Broad 2 (HB2)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a street sign on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

6.0

Bonus (max)

10.0

Height in stories

a

Minimum

4

b

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.20.3. High-Rise Broad 3 (HB3)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a number 6 on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

7.0

Bonus (max)

13.0

Height in stories

Base (max)

6.0

Bonus (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.20.4. High-Rise Broad 4 (HB4)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green tennis court is shown on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a number 2 on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

9.0

Bonus (max)

13.0

Height in stories

a

Minimum

10

b

Maximum

None

City Hall Height Restriction

Required

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.20.5. High-Rise Broad 5 (HB5)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A drawing of a building with a number 1 on it.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR)

Base (max)

9.0

Bonus (max)

13.0

Height in stories

a

Minimum

10

b

Maximum

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

C

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Sec. 2B.20.6. High-Rise Broad 6 (HB6)

A.Lot Parameters

A purple and green square on a map.

Description generated by AI

1. Lot Size

Div. 2C.1.

Lot area (min)

None

A

Lot width (min)

25'

2. Coverage

Div. 2C.2.

B

Building coverage (max)

100%

Building setbacks

C

Primary street (min)

0'

Side street (min)

0'

D

Side (min)

0'

Rear (min)

0'

E

Alley (min)

0'

Special: All (min)

0'

3. Amenity

Div. 2C.3.

F

Lot amenity space (min)

20%

Residential amenity space (min)

10%

B.Bulk and Mass

A 3D model of a building is displayed on a computer screen.

Description generated by AI

1. FAR & Height

Div. 2C.4.

Floor area ratio (FAR) (max)

13.0

A

Height (max)

None

2. Building Mass

Div. 2C.5.

B

Building width (max)

350'

Building break (min)

25'

3. Upper-story Bulk

Div. 2C.6.

Not applicable

Div. 2B.21. High-Rise Full Form Districts

Pursuant to Sec. 2A.1.4. (Form District Naming Convention), each High-Rise Full Form District has a maximum FAR ranging from 8.6 to 13.0, and no maximum building width.

[Reserved]

Part 2C. Form Rules

Div. 2C.1. Lot Size

Sec. 2C.1.1. Lot Area

Lot area is defined as the total area within the boundaries of a lot.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Lot Area) is to ensure that newly established lots are consistent in size with surrounding lots.

  2. Applicability

    Lot area standards apply to any lot modification. When lot area standards apply, they apply to all lots subject to the lot modification.

  3. Standards

    No lot may have an area less than the minimum specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  4. Measurement
    1. Lot area is measured as the total area within the boundary of a lot.

    2. Lot area includes all portions of a lot allocated for required easements.

    3. For measurement on portions of a lot required for land dedication, see Sec. 14.2.11. (Lot).

      Diagram shows three lots and six parcels along a curved primary street and a side street. Each lot boundary is highlighted and labeled ‘Lot area,’ Two of the lots are divided into smaller labeled parcels. As described by the text of this paragraph. -

  5. Relief
    1. A reduction in required lot area of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A reduction in required lot area may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.1.2. Lot Width

Lot width is defined as the length of primary street lot lines bounding a lot.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Lot Width) is to ensure that newly established lots are consistent in width with surrounding lots.

  2. Applicability

    Lot width standards apply to any lot modification. When lot width standards apply, they apply to all lots subject to the lot modification.

  3. Standards
    1. No lot shall have a width less than the minimum specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. For the purpose of meeting minimum lot width standards, multiple lots may be grouped together as a lot when a lot tie affidavit is filed and approved by the Department of Building and Safety.

  4. Measurement
    1. Lot width is measured following the geometry of all primary street lot lines that bound the lot.

    2. Where a lot has two or more primary street lot lines facing different streets, both primary street lot lines shall meet the minimum lot width standard.

    3. For measurement on portions of a lot required for dedication of land, see Sec. 14.2.11. (Lot).

      Diagram shows two rectangular lots and one curved lot bordered by a primary street and a side street. Arrows indicate lot width measurements for each lot, including one curved lot where the width follows the curved street frontage. As described by the text of this paragraph.

  5. Relief
    1. A reduction in required lot width of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A reduction in required lot width may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Div. 2C.2. Coverage

Sec. 2C.2.1. Building Coverage

Building coverage is defined as the percentage of lot area covered by buildings or structures.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Building Coverage) is to preserve open area on a lot by limiting the amount of buildings or structures that may cover a lot.

  2. Applicability

    Building coverage standards apply to new construction or a major remodel. When building coverage standards apply, the standards apply to all buildings and structures on a lot.

  3. Standards

    Covered structures on a lot shall not have a cumulative area in excess of the maximum building coverage specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  4. Measurement
    1. Building coverage is measured by dividing the cumulative area of the structure footprints of all covered structures on the lot by the lot area.

      Diagram shows a site with multiple building areas, including a primary structure, accessory structure, porch, covered patio, and porte cochere. Red outlines mark each structure’s footprint to illustrate how the cumulation of the structure footprints divided by the total site area is used to calculate total building coverage on the lot. As described by the text of this paragraph.

    2. Structure footprints include all building footprints and structure footprints but do not include flatwork.

      Diagram shows a site with a primary structure and an accessory structure outlined to indicate their building footprints. The illustration identifies the total building area within the lot, highlighting the portions of each structure included in the building footprint calculation. As described by the text of this paragraph.

      Diagram shows a site with a primary structure and several attached elements outlined to indicate their non-building structure footprints. The illustration highlights the covered patio, porte cochere, and porch as examples of non-building structures included in the cumulative structure footprint. As described in this paragraph.

      Diagram shows a residential lot with various hardscape areas labeled as flatwork, including a driveway, an uncovered patio, and walkway with steps. A swimming pool and primary structure are also shown to illustrate how flatwork is not part of the structure footprints as described in this paragraph.

    3. For covered structures, see Sec. 14.2.2.A.1. (Covered).

    4. For structure footprint and building footprint determination, see Sec. 14.2.1. (Building Footprint).

  5. Exceptions
    1. Covered structures or portions of covered structures less than six feet in height, as measured from adjacent finished grade, are not included in the calculation of building coverage.

    2. For lots with two or fewer dwelling units, having a House Form District (Div. 2B.3.) applied, a maximum of 400 square feet per lot is exempt from the calculation of building coverage, provided the building or structure is:

      1. Used for required automobile parking;

      2. Detached from the primary building or structure by a minimum of 10 feet; and

      3. Located a minimum of 40 feet from a primary street lot line.

        Diagram shows a residential site with a primary structure and an accessory structure. The accessory structure footprint is marked with the maximum area of exempt area as described by the regulations listed in this Subsection.

  6. Relief
    1. Up to a 20 percent increase to the total allowed area of covered structures on a lot may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. Increased building coverage may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.2.2. Building Setbacks

Building setback is defined as the area on a lot not intended for buildings and structures. Building setbacks include primary street setbacks, side street setbacks, side setbacks, rear setbacks, alley setbacks, and special lot line setbacks.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Building Setbacks) is to provide open areas on the lot and help reduce the impact of buildings or structures on abutting sidewalks and neighboring development.

  2. Applicability

    Building setback standards apply to new construction or a major remodel. When the building setback standards apply, the standards apply to all buildings and structures on a lot.

  3. Standards

    All buildings and structures on the lot shall be located on or behind a minimum building setback, except where allowed in Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

  4. Measurement

    All building setbacks are measured perpendicular to the applicable lot line:

    Diagram shows two lots along a curved primary street, side streets, and an alley. One lot is labeled with a ‘Special Lot Line’ and is adjacent to a park. The other lot shows a curved frontage along the primary street.  Solid line perpendicular to the lot lines indicates setback and measurement areas for each lot as described by the following regulations described below.

    1. A primary street setback is measured from the primary street lot line.

    2. A side street setback is measured from the side street lot line.

    3. A side setback is measured from the side lot line.

    4. A rear setback is measured from the rear lot line.

    5. An alley setback is measured from the alley lot line.

    6. A special setback is measured from the special lot line.

      1. Where a special setback is specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as "Special: All", the setback is measured from all special lot lines.

      2. Where a special setback is specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as "Special: River" or "Special: Alley", the setback is measured from the special lot line as designated according to Sec. 14.2.12.C.3. (Special Lot Line).

      3. Where a special setback is specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as "Special: Other", the setback is measured from all special lot lines that are not otherwise specified.

    7. Where an interior setback is specified, the setback is applied only to a lot within a unified development and shall be measured from any abutting lot within the same unified development. Where a lot within a unified development shares a lot line with a property outside of the unified development, the standard setback requirement applies.

    8. For measurement on portions of a lot required for dedication of land, see Sec. 14.2.11. (Lot).

    9. For measurement on a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.1. (Building Setback).

  5. Exceptions
    1. The following are allowed to encroach beyond the building setback up to the minimum distance from the lot line specified below:

      Horizontal Encroachments Allowed into Setbacks

      Lot Lines

      Primary/Side Street, Special

      Side/Rear

      Alley

      Architectural Details (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.a.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2'

      2'

      2'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      2.5'

      0'

      Roof Projections (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.b.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2.5'

      2.5'

      2.5'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      2.5'

      0'

      Unenclosed Structures: Ground story
      (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.c.)

      Encroachment (max)

      7'

      5'

      7'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      2.5'

      2.5'

      Unenclosed Structures: Above ground story
      (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.d.)

      Encroachment (max)

      5'

      3'

      3'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      5'

      2.5'

      Enclosed Structures: Projecting
      (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.e.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2.5'

      1.5'

      2.5'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      2.5'

      2.5'

      Mechanical/Electrical Equipment:
      Ground mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.f.)

      Encroachment (max)

      1.5'

      2.5'

      2.5'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      15'

      2.5'

      0'

      Mechanical/Electrical Equipment:
      Wall mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.g.)

      Encroachment (max)

      1.5'

      1.5'

      1.5'

      Distance from lot line (min)

      15'

      2.5'

      0'

      Waste Enclosures (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.h.)

      Encroachment (max)

      0'

      unlimited

      unlimited

      Distance from lot line (min)

      15'

      2.5'

      0'

      Utility Equipment, Underground Structures, Flatwork, Fences and Walls, Vegetation, Outdoor Furniture
      (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.i. - Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.n.)

      Encroachment (max)

      unlimited

      unlimited

      unlimited

      Distance from lot line (min)

      0'

      0'

      0'

    2. For existing nonconforming building exceptions, see Sec. 12.2.1. (Coverage Exceptions).

    3. Modifications to existing structures may encroach beyond the limitations specified in the Horizontal Encroachments Allowed Into Setbacks table, pursuant to Paragraph 1. above, only where such limitations conflict with California State Accessibility Standards or Fire Code. When greater encroachments are necessary, the horizontal encroachment shall extend the minimum amount necessary to achieve compliance.

    4. Motor vehicle use areas and charging equipment that facilitates the charging of electric vehicles in electric vehicle parking stalls and any required use standards of the applied Use District (Part 5B.) for electric vehicle charging facilities and carports integrated with electric vehicle charging facilities are allowed to encroach into the required building setback but in no case shall encroach into the required Frontage and transition screen.

  6. Relief
    1. A deviation from a required setback along a special lot line that abuts a public right-of-way or public open space may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance). In addition to the finding otherwise required by Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance), the Director shall also consider:

      1. That the granting of the application will improve a site's connection with the public right-of-way or public open space.

      2. Where a deviation from a required setback from a special river lot line is granted, the application will improve a site’s connection with the river or will improve river access.

    2. A reduction in required setback of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment), provided the resulting setback is at least three feet.

    3. A setback reduction may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Div. 2C.3. Amenity

Sec. 2C.3.1. Lot Amenity Space

Lot amenity space is defined as an area on a lot designated to be used for active or passive recreation, including common outdoor amenity space, pedestrian amenity space, and public amenity space.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Lot Amenity Space) is to provide adequate recreation and open space areas for all tenants of a project, regardless of the use of a building, and to ensure such spaces are accessible, usable, and safe.

  2. Applicability

    Lot amenity space standards apply to new construction that results in an increase of 20 percent or more floor area, or to any lot modifications.

  3. Standards
    1. The cumulative area of lot amenity space provided on a lot shall not be less than that specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. Each area provided to meet a lot amenity space requirement shall comply with the standards for one or more of the following eligible amenity space types.

      Eligible Amenity Space Types

      Amenity Space Type

      Eligible

      Common Outdoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.1.)

      Yes

      Pedestrian Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2.)

      Yes

      Public Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3.)

      Yes

      Private Outdoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4.)

      No

      Common Indoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.5.)

      No

    3. A maximum of 25 percent of the total required lot amenity space may be privately accessible to individual tenant spaces, provided it meets the design standards in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2. (Pedestrian Amenity Space).

    4. Lot amenity space which is privately accessible pursuant to Paragraph 3. above shall abut and provide direct access to the assigned tenant space.

    5. All required lot amenity space that is not private shall be made available to all tenants of the building, at no cost, from sunrise to sunset daily or during the hours of operation of the building, whichever results in a longer period of time.

    6. Lot amenity space provided in accordance with Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space) may be eligible for credit toward the fee and dedication requirements in Div. 10.4. (Park Fees & Dedications), according to Sec. 10.4.8.B. (Privately Owned Park & Recreational Facilities).

    7. Lot amenity space located above the ground story may be required to set back from the roof edge, see Chapter V. (Public Safety and Protection), Sec. 57.317. (Rooftop Gardens and Landscaped Roofs) of this Code.

    8. Mechanical equipment and utility equipment shall not be located within a lot amenity space, or between a lot amenity space and the adjacent building facade.

    9. All mechanical exhaust outlets shall be located a minimum horizontal distance of 10 feet and a minimum vertical distance of 15 feet from a lot amenity space.

    10. At least 20 percent of any outdoor lot amenity space shall be shaded by using shade trees or shade structures. Any area that is covered by a shade structure or a shade tree canopy spread at maturity shall be considered as being shaded.

    11. Lot amenity may be provided across a lot line when it is provided or required as part of a unified development, but shall be subject to all relevant standards in Sec. 2C.3.3. (Amenity Space Types) and Sec. 2C.3.4. (Amenity Design Standards).

  4. Measurement
    1. Lot amenity space is a percentage calculated by dividing the cumulative area of all lot amenity spaces by the lot area.

    2. The minimum required lot amenity space is calculated by multiplying the minimum lot amenity percentage specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) by the lot area.

    3. As a bonus for providing public space, outdoor amenity space area meeting Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space) counts as 1.25 square feet of lot amenity space for every one square foot of provided outdoor amenity space area.

    4. Shade is calculated as the shadow cast on the publicly accessible open space measured at noon (12:00 p.m.) on the summer solstice.

    5. For calculation of lot amenity space on a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.2. (Lot Amenity Space).

    6. In a unified development, the lot amenity requirement can be fulfilled for every individual lot by the above measurement, or the total area of all lots may be taken as the lot area to be multiplied by the lot amenity percentage requirement. Private outdoor amenity space cannot be used to fulfill the lot amenity requirement when the cumulative lot area is used for the calculation.

  5. Exceptions
    1. Where the calculation of lot amenity space requires less than 400 square feet, no lot amenity space is required.

    2. When a lot modification involves an air space lot subdivision, the air space lot area is not used in the calculation for required lot amenity space.

    3. Where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) identifies an eligible lot amenity alternative, in lieu of the otherwise required lot amenity space in this Section (Lot Amenity Space), a project may provide a lot amenity space meeting the requirements established for that listed lot amenity alternative type, as provided in Sec. 2C.3.5. (Lot Amenity Alternatives).

    4. Where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) identifies an eligible lot amenity alternative, in lieu of the otherwise required lot amenity space in this Section (Lot Amenity Space), a project may provide a lot amenity space meeting the requirements established for that listed lot amenity alternative type, as provided in Sec. 2C.3.5. (Lot Amenity Alternatives).

  6. Relief
    1. Up to a 10 percent reduction to the total required area of lot amenity space may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A reduction in required lot amenity space may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.3.2. Residential Amenity Space

Residential amenity space is defined as an area which is designed and intended to be used by occupants of dwelling units for recreational, domestic, or vocational purposes.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Residential Amenity Space) is to ensure projects that include housing provide residential tenants of a project with adequate access to open space, recreation, and shared amenities where the lot amenity space is insufficient, and to ensure such spaces are accessible, usable, and safe.

  2. Applicability

    Residential amenity space standards apply to any project that includes five or more dwelling units on a lot and involves any of the following project activities: new construction, a major remodel, a lot modification, or a use modification.

  3. Standards
    1. The cumulative area of residential amenity space provided on a lot shall not be less than that specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. Each area provided to meet a residential amenity space requirement shall comply with the standards for one or more of the following eligible amenity space types.

      Eligible Amenity Space Types

      Amenity Space Type

      Eligible

      Common Outdoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.1.)

      Yes

      Pedestrian Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2.)

      Yes

      Public Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3.)

      Yes

      Private Outdoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4.)

      Yes

      Common Indoor Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.3.C.5.)

      Yes

    3. At least 75 percent of the required residential amenity space shall be outdoors and meet the design standards of either Sec. 2C.3.3.C.1. (Common Outdoor Amenity Space) or Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4. (Private Outdoor Amenity Space).

    4. A maximum of 65 square feet of required residential amenity space per dwelling unit may be private, provided that not more than 50 percent of the total required residential amenity space is private, and the private residential amenity space meets the design standards in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4. (Private Outdoor Amenity Space).

    5. Private residential amenity space shall abut and provide direct access to the assigned tenant space.

      Diagram shows a multi-story mixed-use building with private outdoor amenity spaces highlighted along the residential façade. Small projecting balconies are marked to illustrate two requirements: each must provide direct access from the dwelling unit and meet the minimum unclosed area standard.

    6. All required residential amenity space that is not private shall be made available to all tenants of the building, at no cost, from sunrise to sunset daily or during the hours of operation of the building, whichever results in a longer period of time.

    7. Residential amenity space provided in accordance with Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space) may be eligible for credit towards the fee and dedication requirements outlined in Div. 10.4. (Park Fees & Dedications), according to Sec. 10.4.8.B. (Privately Owned Park & Recreational Facilities).

    8. Residential amenity space located above the ground story may be required to set back from the roof edge, see Chapter V. (Public Safety and Protection), Sec. 57.317. (Rooftop Gardens and Landscaped Roofs) of this Code.

    9. Mechanical equipment and utility equipment shall not be located within a residential amenity space, or between a residential amenity space and the adjacent building facade.

    10. All mechanical exhaust outlets shall be located a minimum horizontal distance of 10 feet and a minimum vertical distance of 15 feet from a residential amenity space.

    11. At least 20 percent of any outdoor residential amenity space shall be shaded by shade trees or shade structures.

  4. Measurement
    1. Residential amenity space is a percentage calculated by dividing the cumulative area of all residential amenity spaces by the total floor area allocated to dwelling units.

    2. The minimum required residential amenity space is calculated by multiplying the total floor area allocated to dwelling units by the minimum percentage specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    3. All lot amenity space provided may be credited toward the residential amenity space requirement.

    4. As a bonus for providing public space, residential amenity space meeting Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space) counts at a rate of 1.25 square feet for every one square foot of public amenity space provided.

    5. Any area that is covered by a shade structure or a shade tree canopy (as measured by spread at maturity) shall be considered as being shaded.

  5. Relief
    1. Up to a 10 percent reduction to the total required area of residential amenity space may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A reduction in required residential amenity space may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.3.3. Amenity Space Types

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Amenity Space Types) is to ensure that amenity spaces provided by projects are sufficient enough to provide spaces which are accessible, usable, and safe, and provide adequate access to open space, recreation, and shared amenities.

  2. Applicability

    Amenity space types are established in Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space) and Sec. 2C.3.2. (Residential Amenity Space).

  3. Standards

    The following standards apply by type of amenity space.

    1. Common Outdoor Amenity Space

      Common outdoor amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors, open to all tenants of a building, and meets the following standards:

      Common Outdoor Amenity Space

      Amenity Space Standards

      Specification

      Reference

      Outdoor Space

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1.)

      Amenity Area (min)

      400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.2.)

      Horizontal Dimension (min)

      15'

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.3.)

      Adjacent Building Transparency (min)

      15%

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.4.)

      Planting Area

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.5.)

      At Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      25%

      Above Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      15%

      Seating (min)

      2 per 400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.6.)

      Ground Floor Elevation

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.7.)

      Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.8.)

      Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.9.)

      Publicly Accessible

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.10.)

      Amenity Features (min)

      3

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.11.)

    2. Pedestrian Amenity Space

      Pedestrian amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors, located at ground-level, and is accessible to pedestrians and all tenants of a building by meeting the standards in the following table. See Div. 3C.1. (Build-To) for additional provisions related to pedestrian amenity spaces.

      Pedestrian Amenity Space

      Amenity Space Standards

      Specification

      Reference

      Outdoor Space

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1.)

      Amenity Area (min)

      200 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.2.)

      Horizontal Dimension (min)

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.3.)

      Enclosed (min)

      15'

      Unenclosed (min)

      6'

      Adjacent Building Transparency (min)

      15%

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.4.)

      Planting Area

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.5.)

      At Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      25%

      Above Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      n/a

      Seating (min)

      2 per 400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.6.)

      Ground Floor Elevation

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.7.)

      Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.8.)

      Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.9.)

      Publicly Accessible

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.10.)

      Amenity Features (min)

      3

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.11.)

    3. Public Amenity Space

      Public amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors and, although privately owned, is open to the public, and meets the following standards:

      Public Amenity Space

      Amenity Space Standards

      Specification

      Reference

      Outdoor Space

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1.)

      Amenity Area (min)

      400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.2.)

      Horizontal Dimension (min)

      15'

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.3.)

      Adjacent Building Transparency (min)

      15%

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.4.)

      Planting Area

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.5.)

      At Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      25%

      Above Grade Plane Elevation (min)

      n/a

      Seating (min)

      2 per 400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.6.)

      Ground Floor Elevation

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.7.)

      Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.8.)

      Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.9.)

      Publicly Accessible

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.10.)

      Amenity Features (min)

      3

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.11.)

    4. Private Outdoor Amenity Space

      Private outdoor amenity space a type of amenity space that is uncovered or unenclosed and is available to an assigned unit or tenant space, and meets the following standards:

      Private Outdoor Amenity Space

      Amenity Space Standards

      Specification

      Reference

      Outdoor Space

      Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1.)

      Amenity Area (min)

      50 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.2.)

      Horizontal Dimension (min)

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.3.)

      Enclosed (min)

      8'

      Unenclosed (min)

      5'

      Adjacent Building Transparency (min)

      15%

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.4.)

      Planting Area

      n/a

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.5.)

      Seating (min)

      2 per 400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.6.)

      Ground Floor Elevation

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.7.)

      Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.8.)

      Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.9.)

      Publicly Accessible

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.10.)

      Amenity Features (min)

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.11.)

    5. Common Indoor Amenity Space

      Common indoor amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is covered or enclosed, is legally required to be open to all tenants of a building, is intended to create opportunities for social and recreational activity for tenants, and meets the following standards:

      Common Indoor Amenity Space

      Amenity Space Standards

      Specification

      Reference

      Outdoor Space

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1.)

      Amenity Area (min)

      400 sf

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.2.)

      Horizontal Dimension (min)

      10'

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.3.)

      Adjacent Building Transparency (min)

      n/a

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.4.)

      Planting Area

      n/a

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.5.)

      Seating (min)

      n/a

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.6.)

      Ground Floor Elevation

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.7.)

      Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.8.)

      Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.9.)

      Publicly Accessible

      Not Required

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.10.)

      Amenity Features (min)

      1

      (Sec. 2C.3.4.C.11.)

  4. Measurement
    1. The enclosure of the horizontal dimension of an amenity space type shall be measured pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4. (Enclosure).

    2. The grade plane elevation shall be determined per the standards written in Sec. 14.2.9. (Grade Plane Elevation).

      1. For an amenity space type to be considered located at grade plane elevation, its elevation shall not be located at any elevation higher than the grade plane elevation calculation, but may be located lower.

      2. For an amenity space type to be considered above grade plane elevation, it shall be located on a story that is above the first story of a structure.

  5. Relief
    1. A deviation from amenity space standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance).

    2. A deviation from any amenity space dimensional standard of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    3. A deviation from any amenity space standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.3.4. Amenity Design Standards

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Amenity Design Standards) is to ensure that amenity spaces provide sufficient recreational area in a manner that is visually interesting, connects the development to its users or the public right-of-way, promotes environmental sensitivity, and creates opportunities for the congregation of individuals at the ground story or upper-stories of a development.

  2. Applicability

    Amenity space design standards are determined by the amenity space types in Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space) and Sec. 2C.3.2. (Residential Amenity Space), and as established by Sec. 2C.3.3. (Amenity Space Types).

  3. Standards
    1. Outdoor Space
      1. Where the amenity space is enclosed, it shall not be covered. Where the amenity space is covered, it shall not be enclosed.

      2. No portion of an outdoor space may have a clear height of less than seven feet.

      3. Portions of an outdoor space that are covered shall have a minimum clear height of 1.5 times the depth of the covered area.
        Diagram shows a ground-floor outdoor amenity space located beneath a building overhang. A shaded area labeled “Covered Area” indicates the portion of the space protected overhead. Diagram highlights the required minimum depth, shown as 1.5 times the dimension labeled “X,” demonstrating how to measure the usable covered portion of the amenity space.

      4. The following structures are exempt from the outdoor space standards above, provided all exempted structures have a cumulative area no greater than 20 percent of the contiguous amenity space area.

        1. Unenclosed structures having a clear height of at least seven feet; and

        2. An enclosed and covered structure, providing goods or services to tenants of the project or the public, having an area of no more than 25 square feet.

          Diagram shows an outdoor amenity space with both an enclosed and covered structure limited to 25 square feet maximum, and an unenclosed structure with a minimum clear height of 7.5 feet. The combined area of all structures, enclosed and unenclosed, has a maximum of 20 percent of the outdoor amenity space as described in the text of this subparagraph.

    2. Amenity Area

      Each amenity space shall provide an area of no less than the minimum amenity area required by the amenity space type.

    3. Horizontal Dimension

      Each amenity space shall have the minimum horizontal dimension set by the amenity space type.

    4. Adjacent Building Transparency

      Building facades adjacent to the amenity space shall provide at least the minimum transparency percentage required by the amenity space type for each story.

      [Error: Alt text was not generated.]

    5. Planting Area
      1. When an amenity space type satisfies its minimum planting area requirement at the grade plane elevation, the amenity space shall meet all other standards of the amenity space type within the minimum and maximum ground floor elevation as specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.). For other applicable standards, see Sec. 4C.6.4.C.2. (Planting Areas).

      2. An amenity space shall provide at least the required minimum percentage of the total area of the amenity space as planting area.

    6. Seating
      1. Permanent or movable seats shall be provided at the specified ratio based on the area in square feet of amenity space.

      2. Each permanent or movable seat provided within the amenity space shall count as one.

      3. Two linear feet of bench or seat wall provided within the amenity space shall be counted as one seat.

    7. Ground Floor Elevation
      1. The finished floor or ground surface of the amenity space shall be located within the minimum and maximum ground floor elevations specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.).

      2. For measurement of ground floor elevation, see Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation).

    8. Public Sidewalk/Way Adjacent
      1. The amenity space shall abut a public sidewalk or public way for a minimum width of 15 feet.

      2. A pedestrian accessway having a minimum width of four feet shall connect the amenity space to the abutting public sidewalk or public way. No fixed wall or fence shall separate the amenity space from the abutting public sidewalk or public way for the minimum pedestrian accessway width.

      3. The space shall not be separated from the public sidewalk or public way by any structure or landscaping, with the exception of a Type A1 or Type A2 frontage yard fence & wall type as specified in Sec. 3C.3.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall).

    9. Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting

      The amenity space shall comply with the requirements of Sec. 4C.10.1.C.3. (Pedestrian-Oriented Lighting).

    10. Publicly Accessible
      1. The amenity space shall be made permanently available to the general public, at no cost, at minimum between sunrise and sunset daily.

      2. Signs shall be posted at every public entrance to the amenity space in accordance with the Public Amenity Space Sign Standards as established by the Director, and in accordance with Div. 4C.11. (Signs). Standards include, but are not limited to, the following:

        1. Minimum sign dimension, no less than 16 inches by 20 inches;

        2. Sign location requirements;

        3. Required posting of the hours of operation; and

        4. Mandatory language regarding public access.

    11. Amenity Features
      1. The amenity space shall provide at least the minimum number of amenity features required by the amenity space type by providing from the list of options in the Amenity Features Menu as established by the Director, and shall be made permanently available to the tenants of the building.

      2. The location and number of amenity features shall be identified on the proposed plans submitted to the Department of Building and Safety, with the accompanying dimensions called out as required by the selected options.

  4. Measurement
    1. Minimum amenity area is measured as an area in square feet calculated for each contiguous amenity space located on a lot. The area of the abutting parkway is not included in the total minimum amenity area.

    2. The horizontal dimension shall be measured as the shortest horizontal distance along the boundaries of the amenity space, perpendicular to any boundary of the amenity space.

    3. For measurement of transparency, see Div. 3C.4. (Transparency).

    4. For measurement of ground floor elevation, see Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation).

    5. The minimum width an amenity space is required to abut a public sidewalk or public way shall be measured following the geometry of the frontage lot line abutting the applicable public sidewalk or public way.

    6. The minimum pedestrian accessway width shall be measured along the frontage lot line abutting the applicable public sidewalk or public way from one edge of the accessway perpendicularly to the opposite edge.

    7. For measurement of pedestrian-oriented lighting, see Sec. 4C.10.1.D. (Measurement).

  5. Relief
    1. A deviation from any amenity design dimensional standard of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A deviation from any amenity design standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.3.5. Lot Amenity Alternatives

Lot amenity alternatives are defined as space types with a predetermined set of design standards that may be used as an allowable alternative to the standard lot amenity space requirements of a Form District (Part 2B.).

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Lot Amenity Alternatives) is to provide alternative options for the design of spaces for recreation and open space for the tenants of a project. Lot amenity alternatives establish design criteria for common and desirable open space typologies that both incentivize certain kinds of open spaces and potentially improve the feasibility of achieving required lot amenity space on constrained lots, while maintaining high-quality and contextually appropriate design.

  2. Applicability
    1. Lot amenity alternatives apply to projects with a lot amenity space requirement, as established in Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space) on a lot with an applied Form District (Part 2B.) that lists one or more eligible lot amenity alternative types.

    2. Lot amenity alternatives are optional alternatives to the lot amenity space requirements in Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space), except projects utilizing the Corridor Transitions Incentive Program in Sec. 9.2.4. (Corridor Transitions Incentive Program) shall utilize a Lot Amenity Alternative Type.

  3. Standards
    1. General
      1. Where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) lists one or more lot amenity alternative types, a project may provide a lot amenity space that meets the standards established in Paragraph 2. (Lot Amenity Alternative Types), below for any one of the lot amenity alternative types listed in the Form District (Part 2B.).

      2. The provided lot amenity alternative shall be considered to meet the lot amenity space requirement for the lot, even if providing an eligible lot amenity alternative type results in providing less total lot amenity space on the lot than would otherwise be required pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space).

      3. Projects providing a lot amenity alternative are still subject to any required Residential Amenity Space (Sec. 2C.3.2.).

    2. Lot Amenity Alternative Types
      1. Courtyard

        1. Width

          The width of the courtyard shall be a minimum of 30 percent of the lot width, or a minimum of 15 feet, whichever is greater, measured parallel to the applicable primary street lot line.

        2. Depth

          The depth of the courtyard shall be a minimum of 40 percent of the lot depth, measured perpendicular to the applicable primary street lot line.

        3. Outdoor Space

          The entirety of the courtyard space shall meet the requirements of Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1. (Outdoor Space).

        4. Location

          The courtyard shall be placed in one of the following locations on the lot:

          1. Abutting the front yard on a lot, so as to create a courtyard that extends backward into the lot starting from the front yard or a courtyard that connects the front yard to another outdoor space meeting the standards of Sec. 4C.3.4.C.1. (Outdoor Space) on the lot.

          2. An internal courtyard, surrounded on all sides by buildings or structures and contained entirely within a single lot.

          3. Abutting an at-grade lot amenity space on an abutting lot, so as to create the effect of one large open space across multiple lots.

      2. Paseo

        1. Width

          The width of the paseo shall be a minimum of 10 percent of the lot width, or a minimum of 10 feet, whichever is greater, measured parallel to the applicable primary street lot line.

        2. Depth

          The depth shall be a minimum of 60 percent of the lot depth, measured perpendicular to the applicableprimary street lot line.

        3. Covered Area

          The entirety of the paseo space shall meet the requirements of Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1. (Outdoor Space).

        4. Pedestrian Pathway

          An unobstructed pathway with direct access to the primary street lot line shall be provided with a minimum width of four feet along the entire depth of the paseo space.

        5. Location

          The paseo space shall be located between one or more buildings on the lot.

      3. Rear Yard

        1. Width

          The width of the rear yard shall be a minimum of 50 percent of the lot width, measured parallel to the applicable primary street lot line.

        2. Depth

          The depth shall be a minimum of 10 percent of the lot depth, or a minimum of 15 feet, whichever is greater, measured perpendicular to the applicable primary street lot line.

        3. Covered Area

          The entirety of the rear yard space shall meet the requirements of Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1. (Outdoor Space), with the exception of portions of the rear yard space located within the required rear setback, which shall be open to the sky except for the encroachments allowed pursuant to Subsection E. (Exceptions) of Sec. 2C.2.2. (Building Setbacks).

        4. Location

          The rear yard shall be located abutting the rear lot line.

  4. Measurement
    1. General

      A lot amenity alternative is measured as provided or not provided based on whether the design of a lot amenity space meets the standards of an eligible lot amenity alternative type specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. Width

      The width of a lot amenity alternative type shall be measured parallel to the primary street lot line and the minimum width shall be maintained along the entire required depth of the space.

    3. Depth

      The depth of a lot amenity alternative type shall be measured perpendicular to the primary street lot line and the minimum depth shall be maintained along the entire required width of the space.

    4. Covered Area

      For the measurement of an uncovered space, see Sec. 14.2.2. (Covered Area (%)).

  5. Relief

    No relief from the design standards established in Paragraph 2. (Lot Amenity Alternative Types) of Subsection C. (Standards), above, shall be permitted. Projects may instead defer to the standard lot amenity space requirements, pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space), including any relief allowed pursuant to that Section.

Div. 2C.4. Floor Area Ratio & Height

Sec. 2C.4.1. Floor Area Ratio (FAR)

Floor area ratio or FAR is defined as the measurement of the total floor area of all buildings on a lot in relation to the size of the lot.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Floor Area Ratio (FAR)) is to regulate the bulk and massing of buildings on a lot.

  2. Applicability

    Floor area ratio standards apply to new construction or a lot modification. When the floor area ratio standards apply, they apply to all buildings and structures located on a lot.

  3. Standards
    1. Floor Area Ratio (FAR)

      A lot shall not exceed the maximum floor area ratio specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. Base

      When floor area ratio (FAR) is further specified by “Base”, in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), a lot shall not exceed the maximum Base floor area ratio without meeting the requirements of Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    3. Bonus

      When floor area ratio (FAR) is further specified by “Bonus”, in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), a lot may exceed the maximum Base floor area ratio up to the maximum Bonus floor area ratio as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    4. Tier 1 Bonus

      When floor area ratio (FAR) is further specified by “Tier 1 Bonus”, in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), a lot may exceed the Base floor area ratio up to the maximum tier 1 bonus floor area ratio of the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    5. Tier 2 Bonus

      When floor area ratio (FAR) is further specified by “Tier 2 Bonus”, in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), a lot may exceed the Base floor area ratio and tier 1 bonus floor area ratio up to the maximum tier 2 bonus floor area ratio as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

  4. Measurement
    1. FAR is calculated by dividing the total floor area on a lot by the lot area.

    2. For the measurement of floor area, see Sec. 14.2.7. (Floor Area).

    3. For the purpose of calculating FAR, portions of a lot designated for private streets may be counted as lot area. For the measurement of lot area, see Sec. 2C.1.1. (Lot Area).

    4. For the purpose of calculating FAR, lot area is the same as buildable area referred to in the City of Los Angeles Charter, Article I. (Incorporation and Powers), Sec. 104. (e) (Floor Area Restriction).

    5. The Downtown Community Plan Implementation Overlay may define and measure buildable area differently than outlined in Paragraph 4. above for the purpose of calculating the maximum floor area using bonus FAR.

  5. Exceptions
    1. For existing nonconforming building exceptions, see Sec. 12.2.2. (Floor Area Ratio & Height Exceptions).

    2. Projects participating in incentive programs intended to implement State law, including the State Density Bonus Program (Sec. 9.2.1.), the Affordable Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), the Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), the Corridor Transitions Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.3.), Transit Oriented Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.4.), the Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.4.1.), or the Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program (Div. 9.5.), may exceed the maximum floor area ratio or any applicable bonus FAR of the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  6. Relief
    1. For existing nonconforming building exceptions, see Sec. 12.2.2. (Floor Area Ratio & Height Exceptions).

    2. For projects that include multiple parcels having different applied Form Districts (Part 2B.), floor area averaging across the development site may be granted, in accordance with Sec. 13B.2.2. (Class 2 Conditional Use Permit).

      1. Supplemental Findings

        In addition to the findings in Sec. 13B.2.2. (Class 2 Conditional Use Permit), the Zoning Administrator shall also find that the project meets the following conditions:

        1. The project meets the definition of unified development,

        2. All lots included in the project have a Commercial-Mixed Use District (Div. 5B.5.), Industrial-Mixed Use District (Div. 5B.6.), or Industrial Use District (Div. 5B.7.) applied, or the project is located entirely in the Downtown Community Plan Area and all lots included in the project have a Residential-Mixed Use District (Div. 5B.4.), Commercial-Mixed Use District (Div. 5B.5.), Industrial-Mixed Use District (Div. 5B.6.), or Industrial Use District (Div. 5B.7.) applied.

        3. The total floor area of all structures on an individual lot may only exceed the FAR allowed pursuant to the applied Form District (Part 2B.) if the total floor area across all lots in the unified development does not exceed the sum of the maximum FAR calculated based on the maximum FAR specified by each applied Form District (Part 2B.).

      2. Supplemental Procedures

        If the Zoning Administrator approves floor area averaging, then prior to the issuance of any building permits the property owner shall file with the Department of Building and Safety a covenant running with the land that specifies the following:

        1. The operation and maintenance of the development as a unified development is continued into perpetuity;

        2. The floor area used and the remaining unbuilt floor area, if any, is allocated to each lot;

        3. The unifying design elements are maintained and continued into perpetuity;

        4. The covenant is binding on all assigns and successors in interest; and

        5. An individual or entity is specified to be responsible and accountable for compliance and the fee for the annual inspection of compliance by the Department of Building and Safety, required pursuant to Sec. 15.3.12. (Annual Inspection of FAR Averaging & Density Transfer Covenants).

Sec. 2C.4.2. Height in Feet

Height in feet is defined as the vertical dimension of a building or structure measured in feet.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Height In Feet) is to provide adequate light, air, safety, and to protect the character of an area and the interests of the general public.

  2. Applicability

    Height in feet standards apply to all new construction or an exterior modification on a lot where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a maximum height in feet standard.

  3. Standards

    Buildings and structures shall not exceed the maximum height in feet specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  4. Measurement
    1. Maximum height in feet is measured as the vertical distance from grade plane to the top of the roof structure. One or more grade plane modules may be established for each building, as shown below. See Sec. 14.2.9.D. (Building Module Method).
      Diagram shows height in feet measured from separate grade planes for multiple building modules on a sloping lot.
      Diagram shows a building's height in feet measured vertically from a single, level grade plane elevation.

    2. Regardless of established grade plane, buildings shall also comply with ground floor elevation standards in Article 3. (Frontage).

  5. Exceptions
    1. The following are allowed beyond the maximum height in feet, as specified below:

      Allowed Vertical Encroachments

      Form District Height (max)

      45' or less

      > 45' to 90'

      > 90'

      Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Roof Mounted
      (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.b.)

      Encroachment (max)

      3'

      5'

      10'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      3'

      3'

      5'

      Architectural Elements (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.c.)

      Encroachment (max)

      5'

      5'

      10'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      3'

      3'

      5'

      Vertical Circulation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.d.)

      Encroachment (max)

      10'

      20'

      20'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      0'

      0'

      0'

      Safety Barriers (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e.)

      Encroachment (max)

      6'

      6'

      6'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      0'

      0'

      0'

      Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.f.)

      Encroachment (max)

      8'

      8'

      8'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      5'

      5'

      5'

      Flatwork (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.g.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2.5'

      2.5'

      2.5

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      1'

      1'

      1'

      Vegetation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.h.)

      Encroachment (max)

      unlimited

      unlimited

      unlimited

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      1'

      1'

      1'

    2. Modifications to existing structures may encroach beyond the limitations of the Allowed Vertical Encroachments table, pursuant to Paragraph 1. above, only where such limitations conflict with California State Accessibility Standards or Fire Code. When greater encroachments are necessary, the vertical encroachment shall extend the minimum amount necessary to achieve compliance.

    3. Projects participating in incentive programs intended to implement State law, including the State Density Bonus Program (Sec. 9.2.1.), the Affordable Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), the Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.3.), the Corridor Transitions Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.4.), Transit Oriented Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.5.), the Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.4.1.), or the Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program (Div. 9.5.), may exceed the maximum height in feet of the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  6. Relief
    1. Increased building maximum height in feet of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. Increased vertical encroachments of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    3. Increased maximum building height in feet or vertical encroachments may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.4.3. Height in Stories

Height in stories is defined as the vertical dimension of a building measured in stories.

  1. Intent
    1. Maximum height in stories standards are intended to provide adequate light, air, safety, and to protect the character of an area and the interests of the general public. Intended to help provide variation in building heights, maximum height in stories standards help ensure that story heights are not reduced to fit within a maximum height in feet.

    2. Minimum height in stories standards are intended to provide a method of establishing a minimum level of intensity on a lot, and ensure that lots are not underdeveloped.

  2. Applicability
    1. Maximum height in stories standards apply to new construction or an exterior modification on a lot where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a maximum height in stories standard.

    2. Minimum height in stories standards apply to new construction or an exterior modification on a lot where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a minimum height in stories standard.

  3. Standards
    1. Maximum Height in Stories
      1. Buildings and structures shall not exceed the "Height in stories (max)” specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

      2. When height in stories is further specified by “Maximum”, buildings and structures shall not exceed the Maximum height in stories. When “None” is indicated, there is no limitation to building and structure height except if a minimum story height is required.

    2. Minimum Height in Stories
      1. When height in stories is further specified by “Minimum”, portions of a building and structure shall be built to the minimum height in stories specified, as follows:

        1. Only those portions of the building fulfilling the build-to width standard in the applicable Frontage District (Part 3B.) are required to be built to the minimum height in stories.

        2. Each portion of building width used to meet the minimum build-to width standard specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) shall contain floor area for a depth no less than 15 feet on every story above the ground floor elevation up to the minimum height in stories specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.)

      2. When height in stories is further specified by “Minimum (Bonus)” the following standards apply:

        1. The minimum height in stories applies only to projects utilizing bonus FAR.

        2. The minimum height in stories requirement does not apply to predominantly non-residential projects. For the purposes of this rule, "predominantly non-residential" means a project with more than 50 percent of the total floor area allocated to non-residential uses (not including uses in the eating & drinking, personal services, and retail use groups).

        3. Only those portions of the building fulfilling the build-to width standard in the applicable Frontage District (Part 3B.) are required to be built to the minimum height in stories.

        4. Each portion of building width used to meet the minimum build-to width standard specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) shall contain floor area for a depth no less than 15 feet on every story above the ground floor elevation up to the minimum height in stories specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    3. Base

      When height in stories is further specified by “Base”, buildings and structures shall not exceed the Base maximum height in stories without meeting the requirements of Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    4. Bonus

      When height in stories is further specified by “Bonus”, buildings and structures may exceed the Base maximum height in stories up to the bonus height of the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    5. Tier 1 Bonus

      When height in stories is further specified by “Tier 1 Bonus”, buildings and structures may exceed the Base maximum height in stories up to the tier 1 bonus height of the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

    6. Tier 2 Bonus

      When height in stories is further specified by “Tier 2 Bonus”, buildings and structures may exceed the Base maximum height in stories and maximum tier 1 bonus height up to the maximum tier 2 bonus height of the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as allowed in Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), or an applicable Specific Plan, Supplemental District, or Special Zone.

  4. Measurement
    1. Height in stories is measured as the number of stories above the ground floor elevation for each module of the building as shown below. See Sec. 14.2.9.D. (Building Module Method).

      Diagram shows height in stories for three building modules, measured from separate ground floor elevations on a sloping grade. Diagram shows a building's height in stories measured vertically from a single, level ground floor elevation.
    2. For determining ground story, see Sec. 14.2.10.A. (Ground Story).

    3. Structures without Stories
      1. For determining the maximum allowed height for structures that do not contain habitable stories when the applied form district does not also regulate height in feet, the maximum allowed height shall be determined by multiplying the maximum height in stories by 15 feet per allowable story. This resulting product shall be the maximum height allowed for a structure containing no habitable stories.

      2. When the applied form district includes a bonus maximum height in stories, the number of bonus stories specified shall be used to determine the maximum allowable height of structures containing no habitable stories.

  5. Exceptions
    1. The following encroachments are allowed beyond the maximum height in stories, as specified below:

      Allowed Vertical Encroachments

      Form District Height (max)

      3 Stories or Less

      3 to 7 Stories

      More than 7 Stories

      Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Roof Mounted
      (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.b.)

      Encroachment (max)

      3'

      5'

      10'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      3'

      3'

      5'

      Architectural Elements (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.c.)

      Encroachment (max)

      5'

      5'

      10'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      3'

      5'

      5'

      Vertical Circulation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.d.)

      Encroachment (max)

      10'

      20'

      20'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      0'

      0'

      0'

      Safety Barriers (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e.)

      Encroachment (max)

      6'

      6'

      6'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      0'

      0'

      0'

      Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.f.)

      Encroachment (max)

      8'

      8'

      8'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      5'

      5'

      5'

      Flatwork (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.g.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2.5'

      2.5'

      2.5'

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      1'

      1'

      1'

      Vegetation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.h.)

      Encroachment (max)

      unlimited

      unlimited

      unlimited

      Setback from roof edge (min)

      1'

      1'

      1'

    2. Modifications to existing structures may encroach beyond the limitations of the Allowed Vertical Encroachments table, pursuant to Paragraph 1. above, only where such limitations conflict with California State Accessibility Standards or Fire Code. When greater encroachments are necessary, the vertical encroachment shall extend the minimum amount necessary to achieve compliance.

    3. Projects participating in incentive programs intended to implement State law, including the State Density Bonus Program (Sec. 9.2.1.), the Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), the Corridor Transitions Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.3.), Transit Oriented Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.4.), the Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.4.1.), or the Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program (Div. 9.5.), may exceed the maximum height in stories or any applicable bonus height of the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  6. Relief
    1. An increase in maximum height in stories may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

    2. A reduction in minimum height in stories of one story may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    3. A reduction in minimum height in stories may be granted as a Class 1 Conditional Use Permit. In addition to the findings otherwise required by Sec. 13B.2.1. (Class 1 Conditional Use Permit), the Zoning Administrator shall also find that the reduction would be consistent with prevailing heights along the block face.

    4. A reduction in minimum height in stories may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.4.4. City Hall Height Restriction

City Hall height restriction is defined as a restriction to the vertical dimension of a building based-on proximity and height relative to Los Angeles City Hall.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (City Hall Height Restriction) is to maintain the prominence of the historic Los Angeles City Hall tower in the Downtown Civic Center area by ensuring that the height of the tower remains significantly taller than any other building surrounding City Hall.

  2. Applicability

    City Hall height restriction standards apply to new construction or an exterior modification on a lot where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies "Required" for City Hall height restriction.

  3. Standards
    1. For portions of buildings or structures within 675 feet of City Hall, no portion of a building or structure may be located above an elevation equal to 1.5 times its distance from City Hall plus the elevation at the base of City Hall, as measured from sea level.

    2. For portions of buildings or structures located more than 675 feet from City Hall, no portion of a building or structure may be located above the elevation of the topmost point of City Hall.

      Diagram shows City Hall Height Restriction, of a 1.5 slope limit on building height within 675 feet of the City Hall tower. Diagram shows the center of City Hall tower and measures from the base of City Hall to the topmost point of City Hall.  Diagram shows Building Portion the center of City Hall tower and measures from the base of City Hall to the topmost point of City Hall.

  4. Measurement
    1. Maximum Height

      The maximum elevation of a building or portion of a building shall be calculated using the following formula: 1.5(distance) + 295 feet = maximum elevation above sea level

      Diagram shows the City Hall Height Restriction formula: maximum elevation equals 1.5 times the distance (D) from the tower center plus 295 feet above sea level. Diagram shows the center of City Hall tower and measures from the base of City Hall to the topmost point of City Hall.

    2. Distance from City Hall Tower

      Distance from City Hall is measured horizontally outward from the center point of its tower. The center point of the tower is considered to be located at the following geographic coordinates:

      X = -118.242757887301

      Y = 34.0536897906413

    3. Topmost point of City Hall Tower

      The topmost point of the City Hall tower is considered to be located at 745 feet above sea level. Any portion of a building or structure located below this elevation is considered to be located below the topmost point of the tower.

    4. Base of City Hall Tower

      The base of City Hall is considered to be located at 295 feet above sea level.

  5. Relief

    An increase in building height above the City Hall height restriction may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Div. 2C.5. Building Mass

Sec. 2C.5.1. Building Width

Building width is defined as the horizontal dimension of any building or collection of abutting buildings on a lot.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Building Width) is to promote fine-grained patterns of development and prevent long buildings that are significantly out of context with traditional patterns by breaking wide buildings into multiple, clearly distinguished building widths, and to encourage larger projects to provide open space for pedestrians and recreation.

  2. Applicability

    Building width standards apply to new construction or an exterior modification of any frontage lot line-facing buildings or structures. When the building width standards apply, the standards only apply to those portions of a building or structure located above the ground floor elevation.

  3. Standards
    1. General
      1. No applicable building or collection of abutting buildings located on the same lot shall be wider than the maximum building width specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

      2. In order to establish buildings on the same lot as separate buildings for the purpose of measuring maximum building width, a building break shall be provided between the buildings.

      3. Buildings that are located on separate lots, share no interior circulation, and are structurally independent, are considered separate buildings for the purpose of measuring building width.

      4. A building on a corner lot within the build-to zone area of overlap is allowed to exceed the maximum building width by up to 40 feet along both primary street lot lines and side street lot lines.

      5. All applicable buildings and collections of abutting buildings located on the same lot shall be separated by at least the minimum building break dimension for the full depth of the building in order to establish them as separate buildings for the purpose of measuring building width.

      6. No building or structure shall encroach into the building break, except where allowed in Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

    2. Bonus Building Width
      1. Notwithstanding Paragraph 1. (General), above, buildings and structures may exceed the maximum building width up to the bonus building width in feet of the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as allowed by Div. 9.3. (Community Benefits Program), if the participating project provides the required restricted affordable units or other public benefits.

      2. Projects participating in incentive programs intended to implement State law, including the State Density Bonus Program (Sec. 9.2.1.), the Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), the Corridor Transitions Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.3.), Transit Oriented Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.4.), the Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.4.1.), or the Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program (Div. 9.5.), may exceed the maximum bonus building width of the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

  4. Measurement
    1. Building width is measured horizontally and parallel to each primary street lot line and side street lot line from one end of an applicable building or collection of abutting buildings to the opposite end.

      Diagram shows three buildings on three lots with horizontal measurement of building width parallel to primary and side street lot lines, including on an irregular lot line along a curved primary street.

    2. For lot line-facing, see Sec. 14.2.6. (Facing).

    3. For measuring building width on irregular lot lines, see Sec. 14.2.14. (Irregular Lot lines).

    4. A building break is measured perpendicular to the outermost surface of each applicable portion of a building both vertically and horizontally.

      Diagram shows an elevation view and plan view for how a minimum building break separates abutting buildings into maximum building width segments for measurement.
  5. Exceptions
    1. Encroachments

      The following are allowed to encroach into the building break, as listed below:

      Allowed Horizontal Encroachments

      Architectural Details (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.a.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2’

      Clear width (min)

      3’

      Roof Projections (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.b.)

      Encroachment (max)

      2.5’

      Clear width (min)

      3’

      Unenclosed Structures: Above Ground Story
      (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.d. - Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.d.)

      Encroachment (max)

      5’

      Clear width (min)

      3’

      Mechanical/Electrical Equipment (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.f. - Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.g.)

      Encroachment (max)

      1.5’

      Clear width (min)

      3’

    2. Building Break Amenity Space Alternative

      As an alternative to a building break, a street-facing amenity space that meets the following standards may be used to establish buildings or collections of abutting buildings as separate buildings for the purpose of measuring maximum building width:

      1. The amenity space shall meet the design standards of an amenity space type pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3. (Amenity Space Types) and for outdoor space pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.4.C.1. (Outdoor Space).

      2. The amenity space width shall be at least two times the minimum building break dimension specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), measured parallel to the applicable street lot line.

      3. The amenity space width shall not be greater than the maximum building width, measured parallel to the applicable street lot line.

      4. The amenity space depth shall be at least five times the minimum building break dimension specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.), measured perpendicular to the street lot line.

      5. A minimum of 75 percent of the amenity space area shall meet the design standards in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2. (Pedestrian Amenity Space).

      6. The amenity space may count toward the required minimum build-to width required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.), provided it meets the requirements of Sec. 3C.1.3.E. (Exceptions).

      7. Any portion of the amenity space may count toward lot amenity space and residential amenity space, provided it meets all applicable standards.

        Diagram shows perspective of a building break amenity space alternative for two buildings one with a courtyard cut out and the other with a corner cut out defined by a minimum width of 2 times the building break and a minimum depth of 5 times the building break.
  6. Relief
    1. Increased building width of 20 percent or less or reduced building break of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. Increased building width or reduced building break may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Div. 2C.6. Upper-Story Bulk

Sec. 2C.6.1. Street Step-Back

Street step-back is a step-like recess in the massing of a building that requires upper stories to be pushed back from the lower stories from the street.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Street Step-Back) is to reduce the perceived bulk and mass of a building along facades facing public ways, ensuring a height along the street that is appropriate to its neighboring context, while allowing for additional building height.

  2. Applicability

    Street step-back standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or a facade modification of buildings or structures on a lot that face a frontage lot line.

  3. Standards

    The following standards shall be met for a minimum of 85 percent of the building width:

    1. When the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a maximum number of stories without a step-back, all stories above that maximum shall be stepped back from the street-facing facade by at least the minimum street step-back depth, as specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. No building or structure shall extend into a minimum street step-back depth, except where allowed in Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

    3. Buildings having a height less than the maximum stories without street step-back are not required to provide a street step-back.

      Diagram shows a building at a corner of 2 streets where stories 3 to 6 are stepped back from the street by a step-back depth and a portion of the building is called out as exempt from requiring the street step back.

  4. Measurement
    1. Stories Without Street Step-back

      When the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a maximum number of stories without a step-back, that maximum is measured according to Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories).

    2. Street Step-back Depth

      Minimum street step-back depth is measured as the horizontal distance from the outermost edge of the building facade with the topmost story without street step-back to the outermost edge of the facade of the stepped back stories. Street step-back depth is required regardless of the provided or required building setback.

      Diagram shows a building with a rounded corner at a corner of 2 streets and illustrates the street step-back depth measured horizontally from the outermost edge of a corner building's lower stories.

  5. Exceptions

    The following are allowed to encroach beyond the street step-back as listed below:

    Allowed Horizontal Encroachments

    Architectural Details (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.a.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2’

    Roof Projections (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.b.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5’

    Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.c. - Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.d.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5’

    Enclosed Structures: Projecting (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.e.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5’

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.f. - Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.g.)

    Encroachment (max)

    1.5’

    Allowed Vertical Encroachments

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Roof Mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.b.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    3'

    Architectural Elements (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.c.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    2'

    Safety Barriers (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e.)

    Encroachment (max)

    4'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    0'

    Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.f.)

    Encroachment (max)

    8

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    2'

    Flatwork (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.g.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

    Vegetation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.h.)

    Encroachment (max)

    unlimited

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

  6. Relief
    1. A reduced street step-back depth of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

    2. A reduced street step-back greater than 20 percent may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

    3. Increased stories without street step-back may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.6.2. Height Transition

Height transition is defined as a reduction in the maximum height of a building for a limited depth where abutting districts have substantially lower height allowances.

  1. Intent

    The intent of this Section (Height Transition) is to prevent looming impacts and reduce the perceived bulk and mass of any building along a zoning district boundary where the maximum height standard changes significantly.

  2. Applicability
    1. Height transition standards apply to any building on a lot (“subject lot”) where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a height transition is “Required” and the subject lot abuts, is across an alley from, or adjoins another lot (collectively referred to in this Section as an, “adjoining lot”) meeting at least one of the following criteria:

      1. The subject lot abuts a lot zoned with a different applied Form District (Part 2B.), which specifies a maximum height in feet of less than or equal to 45 feet or a maximum height in stories of less than or equal to four stories.

      2. The subject lot is located across an alley from a lot zoned with a different applied Form District (Part 2B.), which specifies a maximum height in feet of less than or equal to 45 feet or a maximum height in stories of less than or equal to four stories.

      3. The subject lot is a through lot adjoining a lot with a different applied Form District (Part 2B.), which specifies a maximum height in feet of less than or equal to 45 feet or a maximum height in stories of less than or equal to four stories, located across a collector street or local street.

    2. Height transition standards shall not apply when the applied Form District (Part 2B.) of the adjoining lot specifies a bonus height that exceeds 45 feet or four stories.

    3. In addition to height transition standards applying to any building pursuant to Paragraph 1. and Paragraph 2., above, when height transition is “Required” in the applied Form District (Part 2B.) and is further specified to apply to an “Applicable Lot Line” that is “Special”, the height transition standards apply to and are taken from any special lot line on the subject lot, regardless of adjoining zoning districts.

  3. Standards
    1. All portions of a building or structure shall comply with height transition standards unless listed as an exception in Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

    2. No portion of a building or structure on the subject lot shall be located within a distance of 10 feet of the applicable abutting lot line of the adjoining lot or the special lot line. A building on a subject lot separated from the adjoining lot by an alley is not required to adhere to this standard.

    3. If the adjoining lot is subject to a maximum height of less than or equal to 36 feet or three stories, no portion of a building on the subject lot shall exceed three stories within a distance of 30 feet and five stories within a distance of 50 feet of the applicable lot line of the adjoining lot.

    4. If the adjoining lot is subject to a maximum height of less than or equal to 45 feet or four stories, no portion of a building shall exceed four stories within a distance of 30 feet and six stories within a distance of 50 feet of the applicable lot line of the adjoining lot.

    5. Where a height transition is specified to apply to an “Applicable Lot Line” that is “Special”, no portion of a building or structure shall exceed three stories within a distance of 30 feet and five stories within a distance of 50 feet of the applicable special lot line.

  4. Measurement
    1. The distance from an abutting lot line shall be measured as the horizontal distance from any applicable lot line having a common boundary with the subject property, to the edge of any at-grade portion of a building to which a height transition limitation applies.

    2. The distance from an alley adjacent lot line shall be measured as the horizontal distance from any applicable lot line located across an alley that separates the subject lot from a different applied zone, to the edge of any at-grade portion of a building to which a height transition limitation applies.

    3. The distance from any lot line on a through lot that adjoins a lot with a different applied zone shall be measured as the horizontal distance from the applicable lot line adjoining a lot with a different applied zone, to the edge of any at-grade portion of a building to which a height transition limitation applies.

    4. Story height is measured pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories).

  5. Exceptions

    The following are allowed to encroach into the height transition subject to the maximum encroachment as listed below:

    Allowed Horizontal Encroachments

    Architectural Details (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.a.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2’

    Roof Projections (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.b.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5’

    Unenclosed Structures: Ground Story (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.c.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5’

    Unenclosed Structures: Above Ground Story (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.d.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Enclosed Structures: Projecting (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.e.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5’

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Ground Mounted

    (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.f.)

    Encroachment (max)

    1.5’

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Wall Mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.g.)

    Encroachment (max)

    1.5'

    Allowed Vertical Encroachments

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Roof Mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.b.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    3'

    Architectural Elements (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.c.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    2'

    Safety Barriers (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e.)

    Encroachment (max)

    4'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    0'

    Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.f.)

    Encroachment (max)

    8'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    2'

    Flatwork (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.g.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

    Vegetation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.h.)

    Encroachment (max)

    unlimited

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

  6. Relief
    1. A reduced height transition distance of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustments).

    2. A reduced height transition in distance of more than 20 percent or an increase in the number of stories before height transition begins may be granted a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).

Sec. 2C.6.3. Wall Plate Height

Wall plate height is defined as the vertical dimension of the wall of a building that supports the roof structure.

  1. Intent

    The intent of the standards of this Section (Wall Plate Height) is to help reduce the impact of taller building walls along the public realm and from abutting properties, in addition to maintaining the upper-story profile of a district.

  2. Applicability

    The wall plate height standards apply to any building on a lot where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) specifies a maximum wall plate height standard.

  3. Standards
    1. The height of any exterior wall of a building shall not exceed the maximum wall plate height specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.).

    2. A building may continue in height up to the maximum height in feet specified by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) when set within a pitched roof having a pitch between a minimum of 3:12 (three inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal span) and a maximum of 16:12 (16 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal span).

  4. Measurement
    1. Wall plate height is measured vertically along each exterior wall of a building from the finished grade to the top of the uppermost wall plate of the building. This measurement shall be taken from every elevation of the proposed building.

    2. Roof pitch shall be measured from the top of the uppermost wall plate to the uppermost ridge along the same sloping roof plane, and is measured by calculating a roof's vertical rise in inches divided by a foot of its horizontal span and is represented as a ratio.

  5. Exceptions

    The following are allowed to encroach into the maximum wall plate height subject to the maximum encroachment and the minimum setbacks from the roof edge as listed below:

    Allowed Vertical Encroachments

    Mechanical/Electrical Equipment: Roof Mounted (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.b.)

    Encroachment (max)

    3'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    3'

    Architectural Elements (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.c.)

    Encroachment (max)

    5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    3'

    Safety Barriers (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e.)

    Encroachment (max)

    6'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    0'

    Unenclosed Structures (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.f.)

    Encroachment (max)

    8'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    5'

    Flatwork (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.g.)

    Encroachment (max)

    2.5'

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

    Vegetation (Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.h.)

    Encroachment (max)

    unlimited

    Setback from roof edge (min)

    1'

  6. Relief
    1. An increase in the maximum wall plate height of 20 percent or less may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustments).

    2. An increase in the maximum wall plate height of more than 20 percent may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance).