The Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code  has a property report function that streamlines how to find the zoning regulations that apply to a specific property. Go to the Report function on the Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code . Enter the property…, Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS), : Go to the ZIMAS . Enter the property address. Select, "Planning and Zoning", from the drop-down menu. Check the, "Zone", field. Click on the zone to view the zoning information., Understanding the Zoning Information, The zoning information will typically include a combination of letters and numbers that represent the specific zoning regulations that apply to the property., New Zoning Code, If the zone is represented as a combination of letters and numbers in brackets (e.g.,, [MB3-SH1-1[CX3-4[CPIO, ), then the property is in an area governed by the New Zoning Code. The bracketed letters and numbers represent the following:  , MB3, is the Form District, which regulates the building's form, such as its height, setbacks, and lot coverage., SH1, is the Frontage District, which regulates the building's frontage, such as the transparency and articulation of the facade., 1, is the Development Standards District, which regulates the development standards, such as parking, landscaping, and access., CX3, is the Use District, which regulates the uses that are allowed on the property., 4, is the Density District, which regulates the density of development on the property., CPIO, is the Supplemental District, which provides additional regulations that supplement the zoning., Original Zoning Code, If the zone is represented as a combination of letters and numbers without brackets (e.g.,, [QC2-2D-CDO, ), then the property is in an area governed by the Original Zoning Code. To find those regulations by going to ZIMAS and clicking on the zone for the property which will take you to the Original Zoning Code (Chapter 1 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code)., Important Notes:, The New Zoning Code is being implemented gradually, starting with the Downtown Community Plan. Other Community Plans will be updated over time, expanding the areas subject to the New Zoning Code. During this transition period, both the New Zoning Code and the Original Zoning Code will be in effect…

You can find the zoning for a property by using the, Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS), :   Go to ZIMAS . Enter the property address. Select, "Planning and Zoning", from the drop-down menu. Check the "Zone" field. Click on the zone to view the zoning information., Understanding the Zoning Information, The zoning information will typically include a combination of letters and numbers that represent the specific zoning regulations that apply to the property. For example, a property might be zoned as, [MB3-SH1-1[CX3-4[CPIO, , where:  , MB3, is the Form District in Article 2 of the New Zoning Code., SH1, is the Frontage District in Article 3 of the New Zoning Code., 1, is the Development Standards District in Article 4 of the New Zoning Code., CX3, is the Use District in Article 5 of the New Zoning Code., 4, is the Density District in Article 6 of the New Zoning Code., CPIO, is the Supplemental District in Article 8 of the New Zoning Code. However, the zoning information may also be a shorter combination of letters and numbers as the zoning for the property. For example, a property might be zoned as, [FWY[CPIO, , where:  , FWY, is the Special Zone in Article 8 of the New Zoning Code., CPIO, is the Supplemental District in Article 8 of the New Zoning Code., Important Notes:, If the zone is represented as a combination of letters and numbers in brackets (e.g.,, [MB3-SH1-1[CX3-4[CPIO, ), then the property is in an area governed by the, New Zoning Code, . If the zone is represented as a combination of letters and numbers without brackets (e.g.,, [QC2-2D-CDO, ), then the property is in an area governed by the, Original Zoning Code, . The, New Zoning Code, is being implemented gradually through the Community Plan Update Program , starting with the Downtown Community Plan. During this transition period, both the, New Zoning Code, and the, Original Zoning Code, will be in effect in different parts of the City. For properties subject to the, New Zoning Code, , it is important to note that it introduces new concepts and terminology.

The Zoning Code that applies to a property depends on whether the property is located within a Community Plan that has been updated to use the New Zoning Code (Chapter 1A of the LAMC)., New Zoning Code (Chapter 1A):, Applies to properties within Community Plans that have been updated as part of the City's ongoing Community Plan Update Program . The New Zoning Code features a streamlined and user-friendly structure, with a focus on clarity and flexibility., Original Zoning Code (Chapter 1):, Applies to properties in areas where Community Plans have not yet been updated. You can determine which Zoning Code applies to a property by:, Using the Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS):, Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code. The New Zoning Code’s new zoning string (ex:, [MB3-SH1-1 [CX3-4, ) is distinct from the Original Zoning Code’s zone string (ex:, [QC2-2D-CDO, ), and is also a good indication as to which Zoning Code applies., Using the Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code:, This Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code has a property report function that allows you to enter the property's address, and generate a report that provides a summary of the relevant regulations. If the property address is not subject to the New Zoning Code, it will inform you of that fact and refer…, Important Notes:, The New Zoning Code is being implemented gradually, starting with the Downtown Community Plan. Other Community Plans will be updated over time, expanding the areas subject to the New Zoning Code. During this transition period, both the New Zoning Code and the Original Zoning Code will be in effect…

Questions regarding the New Zoning Code can be answered through a variety of resources:, Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code, The Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code  provides comprehensive information about the code, including: An overview of the code and its key features. A digital version of the code with a user-friendly interface and search functionality. Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Guidance documents…, Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS), ZIMAS is a powerful tool that allows users to: Determine the zoning for a specific property. View zoning maps and other relevant planning information. Access links to the New Zoning Code and the Original Zoning Code., Department of Building and Safety Staff (before April 2026), For general zoning questions regarding a specific project for which you will be applying for permits, first contact the , Department of Building and Safety, by contacting the call center at 311 or (213) 473-3231 or , visit the same day Virtual Counter, with LADBS. For specific zoning questions regarding a specific project prior to submitting for a permit, you may apply to meet with a Case Manager with the , Development Services Case Management (DSCM), by filling out a Service Request Form; a fee may apply., Department of City Planning (DCP) Staff (April 2026 and beyond), For general zoning questions regarding a specific project for which you will be applying for permits or other City Planning review, please , schedule an appointment, with our , Development Services Centers, staff, or , visit the same day Virtual Counter, . For specific zoning questions regarding a specific project prior to submitting for a permit, you may apply to meet with a Case Manager with the , Development Services Case Management (DSCM), by filling out a Service Request Form; a fee may apply.

If your building or use existed legally before the New Zoning Code went into effect for a property, it might be considered a, nonconformity, . Generally, nonconformities are allowed to continue, but there are rules about how they can be changed, expanded, or discontinued., Key Points, Continuation:, You can generally continue your nonconforming building or use., No Expansion:, You cannot expand the nonconformity beyond its original size or scope., Maintenance and Repair:, You can do normal maintenance and repair., Change of Use:, Changing to a less impactful or permitted use might be allowed., Rebuilding After Damage:, There are special rules for rebuilding after damage, such as from a fire or earthquake., Example, Nonconforming Structure, Let's say your property has a detached garage that was built closer to the property line than what is currently allowed by the New Zoning Code. Because the garage was built legally under the older regulations, it is a nonconforming structure. You can continue to…, Nonconforming Use, Imagine you operate a small bakery in a building that was constructed before the New Zoning Code took effect. The area is now zoned for residential use, making your bakery a nonconforming use. You are allowed to continue operating the bakery as it was originally established. You can also perform…, Recommendation, Check the Nonconformities Article (Article 12) for detailed information and specific rules.

Each project is unique and the process may vary. However, the general process for obtaining a building permit can be summarized as follows:, Confirm Zoning Compliance:, Ensure your project complies with the zoning regulations for your property. You can find the zoning regulations using ZIMAS and the Interactive Web-Based Zoning Code ., Submit Application:, Submit a building permit application to the, Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), . The application must include all required information, plans, and fees., Application Screening and Submittal:, LADBS screen your application for completeness. If your application is complete, an invoice for plan check submittal fees will be sent. Once fees are paid, it will route the application to the , Department of City Planning (DCP), for a Zoning Plan Check and will be added to a queue to be assigned., Zoning Plan Check:, Once your project is assigned, DCP will review your plans for compliance with all applicable codes and regulations., Corrections:, If any corrections or clearances are needed, you will be notified and must resubmit corrected plans and obtain clearance approvals.., Permit Issuance:, Once your plans are approved, LADBS will issue a building permit., Inspections:, During construction, LADBS will conduct inspections for compliance with approved plans., Certificate of Occupancy:, After final inspection approval, LADBS will issue a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings, additions, and conversions. Remodels/repair of existing buildings do not require a new Certificate of Occupancy., Important Notes, Visit the LADBS website for additional details on how to obtain a building permit. The specific requirements and fees for a building permit vary depending on the type and scope of your project. It's highly recommended to consult with LADBS staff before submitting your application to ensure you have…

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. , Division 2C.4 (Floor Area Ratio & Height), establishes a tiered bonus structure:, Tier 1 Bonus:, A project may exceed the base FAR or height up to the maximum Tier 1 bonus by fulfilling the requirements of an applicable incentive program (such as providing required restricted affordable housing units)., Tier 2 Bonus:, A project may exceed the base FAR or height up to the maximum Tier 2 bonus by providing required restricted affordable units AND additional public benefits from the Public Benefits Menu., 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 Specific Community and Civic Facilities (e.g., Childcare Facilities, Full-Service Grocery Stores, Health Centers, Social Service…, 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…, 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.

If you filed an entitlement application and paid all fees before the effective date of the New Zoning Code, you have Successional Rights pursuant to Sec. 1.4.4. (Successional Rights) . This means you can generally continue using the zoning regulations that were in effect when you…, Time Limits:, You must obtain all approvals and utilize them within the time limits established by the successional rights regulations. These time limits are typically three years for discretionary approvals, but there are exceptions and specific rules for different situations., Subsequent Amendments:, Your project may be subject to amendments made to the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) Chapter 1 (the "Original Zoning Code") after your application was filed, unless your application has vested., Vesting:, If your application has vested, you are protected from subsequent amendments to the zoning code. Vesting typically occurs when you have met certain conditions, such as obtaining a building permit and commencing construction., Effectuation and Utilization:, You must both "effectuate" and "utilize" your entitlements within the specified timeframes., "Effectuation", generally means meeting the conditions of approval, while, "Utilization", typically involves obtaining a building permit and starting construction., Key Recommendation:, Consult Resources:, Refer to the New Zoning Code, specifically the sections on Successional Rights and Vested Rights, for detailed information and guidance., Seek Assistance:, If you have any questions or need clarification, contact the Department of City Planning for assistance. They can help you determine which regulations apply to your specific project. You can schedule an appointment with our Development Services Centers either online or in person.

The New Zoning Code is implemented by various City Agencies, with the, Department of City Planning (DCP), and the, Department of Building and Safety (DBS), playing the primary roles. Other departments involved in the implementation process, such as the Department of Transportation and Public Works Department, each with specific responsibilities for certain regulations.  , Department of City Planning (DCP):, DCP is the primary authority for interpreting the Zoning Code and reviewing projects for compliance., Zoning Review & Implementation:, Through its new Development Services Bureau, DCP performs "Zoning Plan Check" to ensure projects comply with regulations concerning building forms, frontages, development standards, uses, and density. This includes verifying compliance for setbacks, lot sizes, floor area ratios,…, Planning & Policy:, DCP manages long-range planning, zone changes, General Plan amendments, and Specific Plan adoptions. DCP also oversees affordable housing incentives (e.g., Density Bonus, TOC) and issues determinations on discretionary projects and zoning appeals., Department of Building and Safety (DBS):, LADBS ensures that buildings are safe and habitable., Permitting & Safety:, LADBS retains responsibility for permit application intake, fee collection, and the issuance of building permits. They review plans for compliance with the Building Code (structural, fire, life safety) regulations., Enforcement:, LADBS handles code enforcement and coordinates with DCP on the enforcement of zoning regulations., Department of Transportation (DOT):, DOT's primary focus is on transportation-related aspects of the New Zoning Code. They review and approve automobile access packages, ensuring adequate and safe access for vehicles. They may also be involved in reviewing traffic studies and issuing…, Department of Public Works:, The Department of Public Works manages the dedication and improvement of streets, including setting street standards, reviewing exceptions, and overseeing the improvement process. They also handle matters related to private streets, ensuring they meet necessary…, Department of Recreation and Parks:, Ensures sufficient recreational space for communities by reviewing and approving park fees and land dedications associated with new developments., Department of Housing:, Responsible for specific housing-related programs and regulations within the New Zoning Code, including the preservation and development of affordable housing., Department of Water and Power:, Ensures that new developments have adequate water and power infrastructure., Police Department:, Plays a role in reviewing and approving certain uses, such as those involving alcohol sales. The implementation of the New Zoning Code is a collaborative effort among these departments and agencies, ensuring the planned and sustainable development…

Applicability This Section establishes procedures to modify, discontinue, or revoke any discretionary zoning approval where needed to remedy non-compliance with the conditions of any conditional use or similar Quasi-judicial approvals. Initiation The Director, […