Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Bonus FAR/Height work?

The New Zoning Code (Chapter 1A of the Los Angeles Municipal Code) provides mechanisms for increased Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and Height beyond the base regulations when a project provides specified public benefits.

What are FAR and Height?

• FAR is the measurement of the total Floor Area of all buildings on a lot in relation to the size of the lot.
• Height is the vertical dimension of a building.

Base FAR and Height

The base FAR and height are the maximum amounts allowed in a given Form District without providing public benefits. A lot cannot exceed these base maximums without meeting the requirements of an incentive program.

Bonus FAR and Height

Bonus FAR and height represent the maximum additional amounts permitted beyond the base regulations in exchange for providing public benefits. A project may exceed the base FAR or height up to the maximum bonus by fulfilling the requirements of an applicable incentive program.

Public Benefits that May Grant Bonus FAR and Height

Bonus FAR and Height may be granted for the provision of various public benefits, including but not limited to:

• Affordable Housing
• Community Facilities
• Privately Owned Public Space
• Transfer of Development Rights
• Other public benefits as outlined in the New Zoning Code.

How to Determine and Obtain Bonus FAR and Height

• The maximum bonus FAR and bonus height allowed for a specific lot are determined by the applied Form District (Part 2B.) as detailed in Division 2C.4 (Floor Area Ratio & Height).
• The specific requirements and procedures for earning bonus FAR and height are established in Article 9 (Public Benefit Systems) or an applicable Community Plan Implementation Overlay (CPIO) or Specific Plan. Article 9 outlines various incentive programs, such as:
  • Citywide Housing Incentive Programs (Div. 9.2.)
  • Community Benefits Program (Div. 9.3.)
  • General Incentive Programs (Div. 9.4.)
  • Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program (Div. 9.5.)

Important Notes:

• Bonus FAR and height are not automatically granted.
• A project must meet the specific requirements of the applicable incentive program within Article 9 or other relevant overlays/plans to qualify for the bonus.
• Bonus FAR and height may be granted in addition to other incentives, such as density bonuses and parking reductions.

For further details on Floor Area Ratio and Height regulations, please refer to Division 2C.4. (Floor Area Ratio & Height). For comprehensive information on public benefit systems and incentive programs, consult Article 9. (Public Benefit Systems) on the official New Zoning Code website.