Frequently Asked Questions

The New Zoning Code (Chapter 1A of the Los Angeles Municipal Code) allows for increased floor area ratio (FAR) and height beyond the base regulations in exchange for the provision of public benefits.

FAR is the measurement of the total floor area of all buildings on a lot in relation to the size of the lot, while height is the vertical dimension of a building.

Base FAR and Height

• The base FAR and height in Form Districts are the maximum amounts allowed without providing public benefits.
• A lot shall not exceed the maximum base FAR or height without meeting the requirements of an incentive program.

Bonus FAR and Height

• The bonus FAR and height are the maximum amounts allowed in exchange for providing public benefits.
• A lot may exceed the base FAR or height up to the maximum bonus in exchange for providing public benefits.
• The bonus FAR and height may be granted for the following:
  • Affordable Housing
  • Community Facilities
  • Privately Owned Public Space
  • Transfer of Development Rights
  • Other public benefits

How to Determine Bonus FAR and Height

The maximum bonus FAR and bonus height allowed for a lot are specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B).

The amount of bonus FAR and height that may be granted for a project is established in Article 9 (Public Benefit Systems) or an applicable Community Plan Implementation Overlay (CPIO) or Specific Plan.

Important Notes:

• The bonus FAR and height are not automatically granted.
• A project must meet the requirements of the applicable incentive program in order to qualify for the bonus.
• The bonus FAR and height may be granted in addition to other incentives, such as density bonuses and parking reductions.