The New Zoning Code offers different ways to get relief from regulations, each with its own rules. To find out what your options are,, check the "Relief" Subsection within the Section for the specific rule, (typically either Subsection E. or F.) you're interested in. This Subsection will tell you what kind of relief might be possible and what degree of flexibility is available. The majority of Relief options are called Quasi-Judicial Decisions and involve the exercise of discretion by the decision-…, Alternative Compliance:, This option allows for flexibility in how you meet the intent (goals) of a rule. The Director of Planning may grant alternative compliance if your proposed alternative still fulfills or exceeds the intent of the rule., Adjustments:, An Adjustment is a minor modification to a rule that involves a specific number or measurement. The Director of Planning can grant an adjustment if strictly applying the rule would be impractical., Variances:, A Variance allows you to deviate from the strict requirements of the New Zoning Code if a Zoning Administrator finds that following them would cause practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship and that special circumstances apply to the property (among other findings)., Important Notes:, The New Zoning Code can be complex, and getting relief from regulations can be tricky. Always start by checking the "Relief" subsection of the specific rule you're working with to see what options are available. Next, check the related Code text in Part 13B (Processes & Procedures) for the full…

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 filed, even if the…, 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.

Queuing depth is defined as the portion of a drive aisle which is designated for ingress vehicular traffic on a site, and meets the standards of Sec. 4C.2.1.C.2.b. (Queuing Depth) .

The following specific fees shall be paid to the Department of Transportation for the preparation and processing of transportation assessments, review of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plans and monitoring data, clearance of conditions, and permit sign-offs in…

It can be easy to confuse "setbacks" and "yards," but they are distinct concepts in the New Zoning Code:, Setback:, A setback is the required minimum distance between a building and a property line (like the front, side, or rear of a lot). Setbacks ensure there's space between buildings and the edges of a lot for things like light, air, and fire safety., Yard:, A yard is the open space on a lot that surrounds a building after you've accounted for setbacks, buildings, and other structures. Think of it as the outdoor area within your property lines. Yards are important for landscaping, recreation, and providing a buffer between buildings. A yard will…, Why is this distinction important?, Because different rules apply to each! For example, fence height regulations are often tied to the type of yard (like a front yard or side yard), not the building setback., Here's an example to illustrate:, Imagine a corner lot. You want to build a fence along the side of the property that faces a street (a Side Street Yard). The New Zoning Code might say fences in Side Street Yards can be 3.5 feet tall. However, this height limit might only apply within the first 15 feet of that yard, measured from…, Important Notes: , Always check the specific rules for both setbacks and yards when planning your project, especially when it comes to things like fences and walls. If you're unsure about how these rules apply to your property, it's best to consult with a City Planner or other qualified professional…

Early Consultation Applicants shall meet with the Department of Recreation and Parks and Department of City Planning staff in advance of submitting a subdivision application for a project of more than 50 …

Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.4. (Supportive Housing: General) , supportive housing: general is defined as a residential use with no limit on length of stay for persons with low incomes and/or who have one or more disabilities who may require support from on-site…

Tree expert is defined as a person with at least four years of experience in the business of transplanting, moving, caring for, and maintaining trees and who is a certified arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture, and who holds a valid California license as an agricultural pest…

Intent The intent of the standards of this Division (Signs) is to promote public safety and welfare by regulating signs in keeping with the following objectives: That the design, construction, installation, repair and maintenance of signs will not interfere with…

All private streets, lots, or building sites shall conform to the following regulations: Boulevards, Avenues & Collector Streets The location, widths, and alignment of all private streets shall conform: to the location…