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:
By using this site, I agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Each project is unique and the process may vary. However, the general process for obtaining a building permit can be summarized as follows:
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 address and follow the directions.
- Browse or download the report generated.
You can also find the zoning regulations for a property by using the Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS):
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 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).
When a complete plan check application is submitted to the Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) with the required fees, the project gains vested rights. This means the project can proceed according to the zoning rules and regulations in effect at the time of fee payment. However, vested rights do not exempt the project from other approvals (e.g., subdivisions, variances) or future citywide safety regulation changes. They also do not protect against state or federal mandate implementations.
Vested rights have limitations: