Division 14.3 — GLOSSARY
Los Angeles Zoning Code — LAMC Chapter 1A · 2025 edition · ingested 2026-07-08 · Los Angeles
City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A
The following terms, abbreviations, and symbols shall be used in construing this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). For any term not defined in this glossary (or defined, but not for all purposes), see Sec. 14.1.1.A.4.
(General) .
Abbreviations & Symbols
'. Feet.
". Inches
%. Percent
ac. Acres
ADU. Accessory Dwelling Unit.
AMI. Area Median Income.
CDO. Community Design Overlay.
CEQA. California Environmental Quality Act.
CPIO. Community Plan Implementation Overlay.
CRA. Community Redevelopment Agency.
CRA/LA. Community Redevelopment Agency.
CRA/LA-DLA. Community Redevelopment Agency - Designated Local Authority.
Div. Division.
DU. Dwelling Unit.
FAR. Floor Area Ratio.
FC. Footcandles.
HPOZ. Historic Preservation Overlay Zone.
JADU. Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit.
LAAC. Los Angeles Administrative Code .
LADBS. Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.
LADOT. Los Angeles Department of Transportation.
LADWP. Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
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LAHD. Los Angeles Housing Department.
LAMC. Los Angeles Municipal Code .
LCP. Local Coastal Program.
LID. Low Impact Development.
max. Maximum.
Metro. Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
min. Minimum.
n/a. Not Applicable.
RAP. Department of Recreation and Parks.
Sec. Section.
SRO. Residential Hotel/Single Room Occupancy Hotel.
SF. Square Feet.
TDM. Transportation Demand Management.
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Abandoned Shopping Cart. Abandoned shopping cart is defined as a shopping cart located outside of
the lot where the establishment that furnishes shopping carts for use by its patrons is located.
Abatement Radius. Abatement radius is defined as the area around a permitted lot designated by the
Office of Community Beautification for the removal of graffiti, posters/handbills and any other
illegal postings, as well as trash, debris, rubbish, and weeds from public property and right-of ways.
Above-Grade. Above-grade is defined as located higher in elevation than the surrounding finished
grade.
Abut. See abutting.
Abutting. Abutting is defined as to touch or have a common boundary with.
Access. Access is defined as a means of approaching or entering a place.
Access Lane. Access lane is defined as the lane accommodating automobile access onto a lot in
accordance with Div. 4C.2. (Automobile Access) .
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Accessory Building. Accessory building is defined as a detached, subordinate building, the use and
scale of which is supplementary to other buildings and uses on the lot.
Accessory Dwelling Unit. See Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning), Sec. 12.03. (Definitions) of
this Code.
Accessory Material Coverage. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.10.2. (Accessory Material Coverage), accessory
material coverage is defined as the building products used as an exterior wall finish material to
accent or support the principal material.
Accessory Roof Form. Accessory roof form is defined as a portion of a roof structure that deviates
from the principal roof form in either shape, color, or shape and color.
Accessory Structure. Accessory structure is defined as a detached, subordinate structure, the use and
scale of which is supplementary to other buildings and uses on the lot.
Accessory Use. Pursuant to Sec. 5C.1.1. (Accessory To), accessory use is defined as a use that meets all
standards in Sec. 5C.1.1 (Accessory To) .
Active Space. Active space is defined as indoor occupiable spaces designed and intended for general
commercial uses, public & institutional uses, or common indoor amenity spaces.
Active Wall Spacing. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing), active wall spacing is defined as the
horizontal distance between widths of ground story facade and foundation wall with window or
door openings.
Acts. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.5.5. (Reasonable Accommodation), acts is defined as the Federal Fair
Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act .
Acutely Low Income Household. An acutely low income household is a household whose annual
income, adjusted for family size, does not exceed 15 percent of the area median income as
designated for this category in California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50063.5 .
Adaptive Reuse Project. Adaptive reuse project is defined as any change of use to dwelling, or
household business: joint living & work quarters, or any change in commercial use to another
commercial use, in all or any portion of any eligible building according to Sec. 9.4.5. (Downtown
Adaptive Reuse Program) or Sec. 9.4.6. (Citywide Adaptive Reuse Program), as long as the
commercial use is allowed in the zone.
Addition. Addition is defined as any work that increases the foor areal or the volume of enclosed
space of an existing building, and is structurally attached to the existing building. The definition of addition is modified for the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), for which addition is defined as an extension or increase in foor areal or height of a building or structure.
Additional Housing Units. Pursuant to 15.4.3.A. (Definitions), a net increase in the number of dwelling
units or guest rooms to be added on a parcel or parcels of land by issuance of a building permit,
after subtracting the number of dwelling units or guest rooms legally removed from the same
parcel of real property during the year preceding the issuance of the building permit.
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Additional Non-Residential Floor Area. For the purposes of Sec. 15.4.3.A. (Definitions), additional
non-residential floor area is defined as the net increase in the amount of non-residential foor areal
to be added on a parcel or parcels of land by issuance of a building permit, less the amount of
non-residential foor areal legally removed from the same parcel of real property during the year
preceding the issuance of the building permit.
Adjacent. See abutting.
Adjoining. See adjoining Lot.
Adjoining Lot. Adjoining lot is defined as abutting lots, lots separated from the subject lot by a street or
alley right-of-way, and lots having a common corner with the subject property.
Administrative Guidelines. For the purposes of 5C.3.2.B.1. (Administrative Guidelines), the Department
of City Planning or Office of Finance may promulgate regulations, which may include, but are
not limited to, application requirements, interpretations, conditions, reporting requirements,
enforcement procedures, and disclosure requirements, to implement the provisions, and
consistent with the intent, of Sec. 5C.3.2. (Home-Sharing Program) .
Advisory Agency. Advisory Agency is defined as the Director of Planning, who acts in the capacity of
the Advisory Agency for the City pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act established in accordance
with Sec. 13B.7.1.C. (Advisory Agency) . The Advisory Agency is granted additional authority
pursuant to Sec. 11.1.2. (Division of Land) .
Affordable Housing Incentive Program. Affordable housing incentive program is defined as an
incentive program established in Div. 9.2. (Affordable Housing Incentive Programs) to increase the production of affordable housing, consistent with City policies.
Affordable Housing Incentives Guidelines. Affordable housing incentives guidelines is defined as
the guidelines approved by the City Planning Commission, pursuant to Sec. 13B.1.5. (Guidelines
or Standards Adoption/Amendment), under which housing development projects for which a
density bonus above 35 percent has been requested are evaluated for compliance with Div. 9.2. (Affordable Housing Incentive Programs) .
Aggrieved Person. Aggrieved person is defined as any person or entity with standing to appeal an
action on an application filed under this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) under California law, or as
provided in the provisions of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) relating to a particular appeal.
For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)), aggrieved person is defined as any person who, in person or through a representative, appeared at a hearing
on the application for a Coastal Development Permit, or appeal hearing in connection with the
decision or action appealed, or who, by other appropriate means prior to a hearing, informed
the permit issuing authority, or appeal body of the nature of his or her concerns or who for
good cause was unable to do either. "Aggrieved person" includes the applicant for a Coastal
Development Permit.
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Agricultural Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.10. (Agricultural Uses), agricultural uses are defined as uses
dedicated to the cultivation of plants or the keeping of animals.
Air Space Lot. Air space lot is defined as a division of the space above or below a lot with a finite
width, length, and upper and lower elevation occupied or to be occupied by a use, or accessory
use, any building or unit group of buildings, or portion of a use or building. An air space lot shall be identified on a fnal mapi recorded with the Los Angeles County Recorder with a separate
and distinct number or letter. An air space lot shall have such access to a street or private street
by means of one or more easements or other entitlements to use in a form satisfactory to the
Advisory Agency and the City Engineer.
Airport. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.5.1. (Airport), an airport is defined as a runway landing area or other facility
used for the landing and taking off of aircraft including all the necessary taxiways, aircraft storage
and tie-down areas, hangars, passenger terminals, and warehousing facilities.
Alley. Alley is defined as a public way designated as an alley by the Circulation Element of the General
Plan, and displayed on Zoning Information and Map Access System (ZIMAS) or NavigateLA .
Alley Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.6. (Alley Lot Line), alley lot line is defined as any lot line
that abuts an alley right-of-way. Even when a lot line qualifies as a rear lot line, or side lot line,
alley right-of-way abutting lot lines shall be designated an alley lot line, except when the lot line qualifies as a special lot line.
Alley Lot Line-Facing Facade. Alley lot line-facing facade is defined as all portions of a building facade
that are parallel to an alley lot line and meet the criteria outlined in Sec. 14.2.6.B. (Lot Line-Facing
Facade) .
Alteration. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), alteration is defined as any exterior
change or modification of a building, structure, landscaping, natural feature or lot within a Historic
Preservation Overlay Zone including but not limited to changing exterior paint color, removal
of signifcant treei s or landscaping, installation or removal of fencing, and similar projects, and including street features, furniture or fixtures.
Alternative Parking Strategy. Alternative parking strategy is defined as an alternative method of
meeting parking requirements that meet the standards outlined in Sec. 4C.4.2. (Alternative Parking
Strategies) .
American Standard for Nursery Stock. American standard for nursery stock is defined as a publication
by the American Horticulture Industry Association intended to provide buyers and sellers of
nursery stock with a common terminology in order to facilitate commercial transactions involving
nursery stock.
Amphitheater or Stadium. Amphitheater or stadium is defined as a use meeting the definition of either
amphitheater or stadium: local or amphitheater or stadium: regional.
Amphitheater or Stadium: Local. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.1. (Amphitheater or Stadium: Local),
amphitheater or stadium: local is defined as any outdoor or semi-outdoor assembly facility
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intended to accommodate a large number of spectators for performances or sporting events and
having an associated seating capacity of less than 3,000 seats. This use does not include facilities
with seating capacity of 3,000 seats or more, for such uses see Sec. 5D.4.1.B. (Amphitheater or
Stadium: Regional) .
Amphitheater or Stadium: Regional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.1. (Amphitheater or Stadium: Regional),
amphitheater or stadium: regional is defined as any outdoor or semi-outdoor assembly facility
intended to accommodate a large number of spectators for performances or sporting events and
having an associated seating capacity of 3,000 seats or more. This use includes an amphitheater or
stadium associated with a school. This use does not include facilities with seating capacity of less
than 3,000 seats, for such uses see Sec. 5D.4.1.A. (Amphitheater or Stadium: Local) .
Angle of Elevation. Angle of elevation is defined as the angle of an elevation view, zero degrees
(horizontal) being the angle of an elevation projection, and 90 degrees being vertical.
Animal Keeping. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1. (Animal Keeping), animal keeping is defined as any
agricultural use that includes the breeding, boarding, training, or raising of animals.
Animal Keeping: Bees. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1. (Animal Keeping: Bees), animal keeping: bees is
defined as any animal keeping use that includes the keeping of bees.
Animal Keeping: Dairy. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1. (Animal Keeping: Dairy), animal keeping: dairy is
defined as an animal keeping use that includes the storage, processing, or distribution of milk or
milk products.
Animal Keeping: Equine, Commercial. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1C. (Animal Keeping: Equine,
Commercial), animal keeping: equine, commercial is defined as the keeping, breeding, raising,
training, or boarding of more than two equines not owned by and registered to residents on the
same lot as the equine use. Equine includes mules and donkeys.
Animal Keeping: Equine, Non-commercial. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1.D. (Animal Keeping: Equine,
Non-Commercial), animal keeping: equine, non-commercial is defined as the keeping, breeding,
raising, training, or boarding of equines owned by and registered to residents on the same lot as
the equine use. No more than two equines owned by or registered to persons not residing on the
same lot shall be allowed. Equine includes mules and donkeys.
Animal Keeping: Livestock. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1.E. (Animal Keeping: Livestock), animal keeping:
livestock is defined as any animal keeping use that includes the breeding, raising, training,
boarding, or keeping of animals such as alpacas, cattle, donkeys, goats, mules, sheep, swine, or similar livestock, typically for fiber, meat, milk, or other products. This use includes day-to-day
care, selective breeding, raising, and selling of livestock.
Animal Keeping: Pets. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1.F. (Animal Keeping: Pets), animal keeping: pets is
defined as any animal keeping use that includes the keeping of domestic pets that are readily classifiable as being incidental to another use such as dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds, poultry, fish, amphibians, and small reptiles. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.10.1.G.
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(Animal Keeping: Small Animals) . This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.6.1.B.
(Animal Services: Kennel) .
Animal Keeping: Small Animals. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1.G. (Animal Keeping: Small Animals), animal
keeping: small animals is defined as any animal keeping use licensed by the Department of Animal
Services for the breeding, raising, training, or boarding of small domestic animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds, poultry fish, amphibians, and reptiles. This use does not include the uses defined in Sec. 5D.10.1.G. (Animal Keeping: Wild Animals) .
Animal Keeping: Wild Animals. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.1.H. (Animal Keeping: Wild Animals), animal
keeping: wild animals is defined as any animal keeping use licensed by the Department of Animal
Services pursuant to Chapter V. (Public Safety and Protection), Sec. 53.38. (Wild Animals - Keeping
- Permit) for the keeping of wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animals.
Animal Products Processing. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.1. (Animal Products Processing), animal products
processing is defined as a heavy industrial use involving one or more of the following: dressing or dyeing furs; preparing processed meat and meat byproducts; preparing, tanning, and finishing hides and skins; refining or rendering animal fat, bones, and meat scraps; and slaughtering animals.
Animal Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.1. (Animal Services), animal services is defined as a use involving
the provision of services related primarily to domestic animal care and keeping.
Animal Services: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.1.A. (Animal Services: General), animal services:
general is defined as animal services in which domestic dogs or cats are provided non-medical
care, such as, grooming, training, supervision, or boarding. This does not include uses where the
overnight boarding of dogs or cats exceeds 30 percent of the foor areal of a facility, for such uses
see Sec. 5D.6.1.B. (Animal Services: Kennel) . This use does not include medical care of animals, for
such uses see Sec. 5D.6.1.C. (Animal Services: Veterinary Care) .
Animal Services: Kennel. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.1.B. (Animal Services: Kennel), animal services:
kennel is defined as animal services in which four or more dogs or cats, at least four months of age, are sheltered for periods beyond 24 hours per day. This definition does not include retail
establishments dedicated to the commercial sale of animals, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.12.H.
(Retail: Pet Shop) . This use does not include the breeding and raising of animals, for such uses see
Sec. 5D. 10.1.G. (Animal Keeping: Small Animals) .
Animal Services: Veterinary Care. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.1.C. (Animal Services: Veterinary Care), animal
services: veterinary care is defined as animal services in which animals or pets are given medical
or surgical treatment and care. This use does not include the non-medical treatment and care of
dogs and cats, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.1.A. (Animal Services: General) .
Apartment. Apartment is defined as a type of dwelling unit.
Appeal Board. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.7.8. (Subdivision Appeal), the Appeal Board is the Area
Planning Commission where the map is located for any parcel map or tentative tract map that: (a)
creates or results in less than 50,000 gross square feet of non-residential foor areal ; or (b) creates
or results in fewer than 50 dwelling units, guest rooms, or combination of dwelling units and guest
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rooms; or (c) involves a lot with fewer than 65,000 square feet of lot area; or (d) where specifically
provided by this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). In all other cases, the Appeal Board for Subdivision
Appeals (Sec. 13B.7.8.) is the City Planning Commission.
Appealable Area. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)),
appealable area is defined as the area identified in Sec. 30603 of the Public Resources Code .
the area that meets this criteria includes, but is not limited to, the area shown on the “PostLCP certification Permit and Appeals Jurisdiction Map” certified by the Coastal Commission in
accordance with the provisions of Sec. 13576 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations and attached as an exhibit in each certified coastal specific plan.
Appealable Development. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-
Certification)), appealable development is defined in accordance with Sec. 30603(a) of the Public
Resources Code, as any development that constitutes a major public works project or a major
energy facility, or any development located in the Appealable Area.
Applicable Stories. Pursuant to Sec. 3C1.1. (Applicable Stories), applicable stories is defined as the
number of stories that are required to meet build-to standards.
Applicable Story. See applicable stories.
Applicant. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)),
applicant is defined as the person, partnership, corporation, or other entity or state or local
government agency applying for the Coastal Development Permit. For the purposes of Sec. 15.4.3. (Affordable Housing Linkage Fee), applicant is defined as any individual, person, firm, partnership, association, joint venture, corporation, limited liability
company, entity, combination of entities or authorized representative thereof, who undertakes,
proposes or applies to the City for a planning or zoning entitlement approval or building permit
related to a development project.
Application. Application is defined as an application filed pursuant to Sec. 13A.2.3. (Applications) of this
Zoning Code (Chapter 1A).
Approving Authority. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-
Certification)), approving authority is defined as the initial decision maker and appeal body,
including the Director, City Engineer, Zoning Administrator, City Planning Commission, Area
Planning Commission, Board of Public Works, City Council or other applicable decision-making
person or body within the City, which has the authority to approve a Coastal Development Permit
pursuant to this Section or by reason of jurisdiction over other permits and approvals sought in
conjunction with an application for a Coastal Development Permit.
Architectural Detail. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.a. (Architectural Details), architectural detail is defined
as building elements attached to or integrated into the structure of a building, not intended for
human occupation. Types of architectural details include, but are not limited to: cornices, belt
courses, sills, lintels, pilasters, pediments, or chimneys.
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Architectural Element. Architectural element is defined as any building component, either decorative
or structural, which is outside of or comprises the building envelope. Examples include windows,
walls, cornices, and parapets. For the purposes of Sec. 14.2.5.B. (Vertical Encroachments), architectural elements is defined as building elements attached to or integrated onto the roof of a
building, not intended for human occupation. Examples of architectural elements may include, but are not limited to: skylights, steeples, spires, belfries, cupolas, domes, flagpoles, or lighting.
Architectural Feature. Architectural feature is defined as a structure or assembly of architectural
elements attached to or integrated with a facade. Often architectural features include occupiable
space. Examples include: bay windows, balconies, and entry features.
Area Median Income. Area median income is defined as the median income in Los Angeles County
as determined annually by the California Department of Housing and Community Development,
adjusted for household size.
Area of Overlap. Area of overlap is defined as the portion of a lot's area where the build-to zones of
two intersecting frontage lot lines overlap. See Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth) . For an illustration of
the area of overlap, see Sec. 3C.1.2.C.4. (Standards) .
Area Planning Commission. Area Planning Commission is defined pursuant to Sec. 552. (Area Planning
Commission) of the City Charter .
Articulating Element. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.5. (Articulating Element), articulating element is defined
as permanent architectural details used to embellish a facade design to accentuate an articulation
technique or facade composition.
At-Grade. At-grade is defined as a descriptor ascribed to something, such as a floor or entry, which is
at the elevation of the ground where the ground meets the foundation of a building.
Attended Bicycle Parking Service. Attended bicycle parking service is defined as a service by which a
bicycle is left in the care of an attendant(s) with provision for identifying the bicycle's owner. See
Sec. 4C.3.2.C.7. (Attended Bicycle Parking Service) and Sec. 4C.3.3.C.5. (Attended Bicycle Parking
Service) .
Attic. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.F. (Attic), attic is defined as the clear height between the underside of the
finished ceiling or exposed framing, whichever is lower, and the finished floor.
Automobile Access Package. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.2.1.C.1. (Automobile Access Packages), automobile
access packages are defined as a combination of standards regulating automobile access between
the public roadway and a lot.
Automobile Parking Stall. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.4.1. (Automobile Parking Stalls), automobile parking
stalls are defined as a space within a building, or a private or public parking area, exclusive of
driveways, ramps, columns, ofcefi, and work areas, for the parking of one automobile. Automobile
parking stalls do not include bicycle parking.
Automotive Repair Garage. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.10.4. (Annual Inspection Monitoring (Type
2)), automotive repair garage is defined pursuant to Sec. 13B.10.4.A.3. (Definitions) as any use
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described by the definition of: 1) motor vehicle services: light 2) motor vehicle services: heavy 3) or motor vehicle services: large vehicle per Part 5D. (Use Definitions) .
Avenue. Avenue is defined as any public right-of-way designated as an Avenue I, II, or III on the
Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
Average Natural Slope. Average natural slope is defined as the average of the ungraded slopes at
selected contours within a given parcel of land divided by its area as computed from either the
City Engineer’s topographic maps or a topographic map prepared by a registered civil engineer or
land surveyor and meets all the standards in Sec. 14.2.18.A. (Average Natural Slope) .
Awning Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.1. (Awning Sign), awning sign is defined as a sign painted,
sewn, or otherwise adhered to the material of an awning as an integrated part of the awning itself.
B
Base-Top Articulation. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.2. (Base-Top Articulation), base-top articulation is defined
as a requirement composed of two separate and coordinated articulating elements designed to
visually break a building facade up into two separately legible layers.
Base, Middle & Top Articulation. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.1. (Base, Middle & Top Articulation), base,
middle & top articulation is defined as a requirement composed of three separate and coordinated
articulating elements designed to visually break a building facade up into three separately legible
layers.
Basement. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.G. (Basement), basement is defined as an occupiable portion of a
building located below the ground story.
Bee. Bee is defined as any stage of life of the common domestic honey bee (Apis Mellifera).
Beehive. Beehive is defined as a structure that houses a bee colony.
Belt Course. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course), belt course is defined as a horizontal course
projecting beyond the face of the surrounding building facade often shaped to mark a division in
the facade wall.
Bicycle Cage. Bicycle cage is defined as a locked bicycle parking area that has been fenced off to
prohibit access by the general public, and contain bicycle racks that provide a means of securing
the bicycle frame at two points to a securely anchored rack.
Bicycle Corral. Bicycle corral is defined as any on-street public bicycle parking space in which multiple
short-term bicycle parking racks have been installed.
Bicycle Room. Bicycle room is defined as a locked bicycle parking area that has been walled off to
prohibit access by the general public, and which, contain bicycle racks that provide a means of
securing the bicycle frame at two points to a securely anchored rack.
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Bicycle Share Dock. Bicycle share dock is defined as a device designed to receive a bicycle for locked
storage as part of a system that directly rents bicycles on a short-term basis.
Bicycle Share Service Provider. Bicycle share service provider is defined as an entity operating a
system that directly provides bicycles for rent on a short-term basis.
Bicycle Share Station. Bicycle share station is defined as a combination of multiple bicycle share
docks, automated payment equipment, and related equipment associated with bicycle rentals on a
short-term basis.
Bisecting Line. Bisecting line is defined as a line that equally divides the angle created by the
projection of intersecting lot lines of a lot adjoining the street of a corner lot as illustrated in Sec.
4C.11.3.D. (Measurement) .
Block. Block is defined as a lot or grouping of lots with public ways on all sides.
Block Face. Block face is defined as any number of lots that have a primary street lot line adjacent to
one side of a segment of private or a public street that lies between two other streets or alleys.
Bollard. Bollard is defined a an upright post consisting of a piece of timber, concrete, metal or
similar material fixed firmly in an upright position intended to impede various forms of traffic or
circulation.
Bonus Building Width. Bonus building width is defined as the bonus building width granted pursuant
to Sec. 2C.6.1.C.2. (Bonus Building Width) .
Bonus FAR. See bonus foor areal .
Bonus Floor Area. Bonus floor area is defined as having the same meaning as tier 2 bonus foor area l
ratio.
Bonus Height. Bonus height is defined as having the same meaning as tier 2 bonus height.
Booking Service. For the purposes of the Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), booking service is
defined pursuant to Sec. 5C.3.2.B. (Definitions) as any reservation or payment service provided by a
person that facilitates a short-term rental transaction between a person and a prospective guest or
transient user, and for which the person collects or receives, directly or indirectly through an agent
or intermediary, a fee in connection with the reservation or payment of services provided for the
transaction.
Boulevard. Boulevard is defined as any public right-of-way designated as a Boulevard I or II on the
Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
Build-To Depth. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth), build-to depth is defined as the depth of the
build-to zone starting at the minimum building setback and continuing inward for the maximum
build-to depth for the full width of the lot.
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Build-To Width. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width), build-to width is defined as the cumulative
building width that shall occupy the build-to zone, relative to the width of the lot at the frontage
lot line.
Build-To Zone. Build-to zone is defined as the area on a lot located behind the minimum frontage lot
line building setback and continuing inward to the maximum build-to depth, and extending the full
width of the lot.
Building. Building is defined as a covered and enclosed structure intended for human occupancy.
Building Break. Building break is defined as the minimum distance that structures are required to be
separated in order to establish them as separate buildings.
Building Coverage. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.2.1. (Building Coverage), building coverage is defined as the
percentage of lot area covered by buildings or structures.
Building Elevation. Building elevation is defined as an orthographic projection of the exterior face of
a building, represented as a two-dimensional drawing of the building facade. Building elevations
have an angle of elevation of zero degrees (horizontal).
Building Entrance. Building entrance is defined as a door providing access from the public realm to
the interior of a building.
Building Envelope. Building envelope is defined as the physical barrier (including walls, roof,
foundation, windows, and doors) that separates a building's interior from its exterior environment.
Building Facade. See facade.
Building Face. Building face is defined as the outer surface of a building facade, which would not
include recesses or encroachments.
Building Footprint. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.1. (Building Footprint), building footprint building is defined
as the area of a lot occupied by a building, measured horizontally. Also referred to as "structure
footprint".
Building Frontage. Building frontage is defined as the projection of the exterior walls upon the street
used for street frontage, as measured perpendicular to the edge of the street. For walls that are
not parallel to the street, the building frontage shall include the wall that, other than open parking
stalls, has direct and unimpeded access to the street.
Building Module. Building module is defined as sub-areas of a building footprint used in the building
module method to determine grade plane elevation. See Sec. 14.2.9.D. (Grade Plane Elevation) .
Building Perimeter. Building perimeter is defined as the perimeter of a building footprint, See Sec.
14.2.1. (Building Footprint) .
Building Permit. Building permit is defined as a permit obtained pursuant to Chapter IX. (Building
Regulations), Sec. 91.106.1.1. (Building Permit) of this Code.
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Building Permit Application. For the purposes of Sec. 15.4.3. (Affordable Housing Linkage Fee),
building permit application is defined as plans submitted to the Department of Building and Safety
pursuant to Sec. 13B.10.1.B.2. (Vesting of Development Plan) .
Building Setback. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.2.2. (Building Setback), building setback is defined as the area
between a lot boundary and the minimum required setback, represented with a dotted white line
and bounded by the buildable area.
Building Site. See lot.
Building Width. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.5.1. (Building Width), building width is defined as the horizontal
dimension of any building or collection of abutting buildings on a lot.
Bulkhead. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.9.1.4.C.4. (Bulkhead), bulkhead is defined as a wall located beneath a
display window on the ground story facade that elevates a window above the exterior fnished i grade and the interior finished floor surface.
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California Coastal Act. California Coastal Act is defined by California Public Resources Code, Div. 20.
(California Coastal Act), Sec. 30000., et seq.
California Environmental Quality Act. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), is defined
pursuant to the California Public Resources Code, Sec. 21000. et seq. and the CEQA Guidelines.
California Native Plant Library. California native plant library is defined as a library of native plants
maintained by the Theodore Payne Foundation .
California State Accessibility Standards. California state accessibility standards is defined by the
provisions established in the California Building Standards Code, Title 24. (Physical Access
Caliper. Caliper is defined as the diameter measurement of the stem or trunk of nursery stock. For the
measurement of caliper, see Sec. 4C.6.4.D.10. (Caliper) .
Calvo Exclusion Area. Calvo exclusion area is defined as the lots identified as being in a Calvo
Exclusion Area, as established in Sec. 1.5.7. (Coastal Zone Map) .
Canes. Canes is defined as a primary stem which starts at a point not higher than 1⁄4 the height of the
plant.
Caretaker Unit. Caretaker unit is defined as a dwelling unit designed for use solely by a watchman,
manager, or caretaker (including their family) of a permitted use which requires 24-hour
supervision and is located on the same lot with the permitted use.
Carpool. Carpool is defined as a vehicle carrying two to five persons to and from work on a regular
schedule.
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Categorically Excluded Development. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2 (Coastal Development Permit
(Post-Certification)), categorically excluded development is defined as a development, which is
excluded from the Coastal Development Permit requirements pursuant to a categorical exclusion order adopted by the Coastal Commission that sets forth the specific categories of development that qualify for the exclusion within a specific geographic area, and which establishes that those categories of development in the specified geographic areas will have no potential for significant adverse effects, either individually or cumulatively on coastal resources or on public access to or
along the coastline.
Cemetery. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.1. (Cemetery), cemetery is defined by California Health and Safety
Code, Sec. 7003. (Definitions) . A cemetery includes columbarium, crypt, and mausoleum facilities
integrated within a burial ground. This use does not include crematoriums, for such uses see Sec.
5D.6.10. (Postmortem Services) .
CEQA Clearance. CEQA clearance is defined as any determination, finding or certification authorized
or required under CEQA to approve a project in compliance with CEQA. CEQA Clearances
include, but are not limited to, (i) a determination that an approval does not require CEQA review,
in whole or in part, either due to the applicability of an exemption or because the City action is not a project, (ii) a finding that the City may adopt a Negative Declaration or a Mitigated Negative Declaration, (iii) the certification of an Environmental Impact Report, or (iv) a finding that a project was adequately assessed in a prior adopted Negative Declaration or certified Environmental Impact
Report, including through the use of an addendum.
CEQA Guideline. CEQA guideline is defined by California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, Sec.
Certificate of Appropriateness. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), certificate
of appropriateness is defined as an approved certificate issued for the construction, additions
over established thresholds outlined in Sec. 13B.8.4. (Review of Conforming Work), demolition,
reconstruction, alteration, removal, or relocation of any publicly or privately owned building,
structure, landscaping, natural feature, or lot within a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone that is identified as a contributing element in the historic resources survey for the zone, including street features, furniture or fixtures.
Certificate of Compatibility. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), certificate
of compatibility is defined as an approved certificate issued for the construction of a new building or structure on a lot, demolition, or building replacement of an element, identified as
noncontributing, or not listed, in the historic resources survey for the zone.
Certificate of Occupancy. Certificate of Occupancy is defined as a certificate issued by the
Department of Building and Safety in accordance with Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.109. (Certificate of Occupancy) of this Code authorizing the use of land, a building or structure or portion thereof, or a trailer park or portion thereof. See Sec. 1.4.2.C. (Certificate of Occupancy) .
Chamfered Corner. Chamfered corner is defined as an architectural element at a corner of a building
adjacent to a street intersection where a tertiary building face transitions between two otherwise
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intersecting primary building faces at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees measured from both
primary building faces. For an illustrative example, see Sec. 3C.1.3.C.2. (Standards) .
Change of Use. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.6.a. (Change of Use), change of use is defined as work
that includes a change or expansion in the permitted use of any portion of an existing building or lot from one use defined in Part 5D. (Use Definitions) to any other use defined in Part 5D. (Use Definitions) . Change of use does not include any temporary uses. For temporary uses, see Sec.
14.2.15.B.7. (Temporary Use) .
Character Frontage. Character frontage is defined as a Frontage District established in Div. 3B.9.
(Character Frontage District) .
Citation. For the purposes of Sec. 5C.3.2. (Home-Sharing Program), citation is defined as any
enforcement citation, order, ticket or similar notice of violation, relating to the condition of or
activities at a person’s primary residence or property, issued by the Department of Building and
Safety, Los Angeles Housing Department, Los Angeles Police Department, or Los Angeles Fire
Department, including an Administrative Citation issued pursuant to Chapter I. (General Provisions
and Zoning), Article 1.2. (Administrative Citations) of this Code.
City. City is defined as the City of Los Angeles, California.
City Council. City Council is established by City Charter, Sec. 200 (City Officers) . See also Sec. 13A.1.2.
(City Council) .
City Engineer. City Engineer is defined pursuant to Article 6. (City Engineer) of the LAAC.
City Hall Height Restriction. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.4. (City Hall Height Restriction), City Hall height
restriction is defined as a restriction to the vertical dimension of a building based on proximity and
height relative to Los Angeles City Hall.
City Planning Commission. City Planning Commission is defined pursuant to City Charter, Sec. 551.
Civic Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.2. (Civic Facility), civic facility is defined as any publicly accessible
facility that provides governmental or cultural services to the general public and is operated by or in partnership with a governmental institution. A civic facility includes a post office, civic center, community center, public museum, courthouse, government office, or library.
Civic Facility: Local. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.2.A. (Civic Facility: Local), civic facility: local is defined as a
civic facility that occupies no more than 50,000 square feet of total foor areal . This use does not
include similar uses that occupy more than 50,000 square feet of total foor areal ; for such uses
see Sec. 5D.3.2.B. (Civic Facility: Regional) .
Civic Facility: Regional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.2.B. (Civic Facility: Regional), civic facility: regional is
defined as a civic facility that occupies more than 50,000 square feet of total foor areal . This use
does not include similar uses that occupy 50,000 square feet or less of total foor areal ; for such
uses see Sec. 5D.3.2.A. (Civic Facility: Local) .
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Civic Fleet Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.3. (Civic Fleet Services), civic fleet services include
maintenance, storage, and management of government or publicly operated motor vehicles, such
as school buses, municipal transit vehicles, emergency response vehicles, public utility vehicles,
or waste hauling vehicles, in service of any civic facility use. Where uses, such as dispatch, do not
include motor vehicle maintenance or storage, they are allowed pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.2. (Civic
Facility) .
Clear Depth. Clear depth is defined as the horizontal dimension of the occupiable portion of a building
or structure at the narrowest point.
Clear Height. Clear height is defined as the vertical dimension of the occupiable portion of a building
or structure at the shortest point.
Clear Width. Clear width is defined as the horizontal dimension of the occupiable portion of a building
or structure at the narrowest point (unless otherwise noted).
Coastal Bluff. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)),
coastal bluff is defined as the upper termination of a bluff, cliff, or seacliff. In cases where the top edge of the cliff is rounded away from the face of the cliff as a result of erosional processes related to the presence of the steep cliff face, the bluff line or edge shall be defined as that point nearest the cliff beyond which the downward gradient of the surface increases more or less continuously until it reaches the general gradient of the cliff. In a case where there is a steplike feature at the top of the cliff face, the landward edge of the topmost riser shall be taken to be the cliff edge. The termini of the bluff line, or edge along the seaward face of the bluff, shall be defined as a point reached by bisecting the angle formed by a line coinciding with the general trend of the bluff line along the inland facing portion of the bluff. The minimum length of bluff line or edge used in
making these determinations is 500 feet.
Coastal Development. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-
Certification)), coastal development is defined as any of the following on land, in or under
water: the placement or erection of any solid material or structure; the discharge or disposal of
any dredged material or of any gaseous, liquid, solid or thermal waste; the grading, removing,
dredging, mining or extraction of any materials; any change in the density or intensity of use of
land, including, but not limited to, subdivisions pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act (commencing
with California Government Code, Sec. 66410), and any other division of land, including lot splits,
except where the land division is brought about in connection with the purchase of the land by a
public agency for public recreational use; any change in the intensity of use of water or of access
to the water; construction, reconstruction, demolition or alteration of the size of any structure,
including any facility of any private, public or municipal utility; and the removal or harvesting of
major vegetation other than for agricultural purposes, kelp harvesting, and timber operations,
which are in accordance with a timber harvesting plan submitted pursuant to the provisions of the
Z’bergNejedly Forest Practice Act of 1973 (commencing with Sec. 4511 of the Public Resources
Code) .
Coastal Zone. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)),
coastal zone is defined as that land and water area specified on the maps cited in Sec. 30103 of
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the Public Resources Code, extending seaward to the State’s outer limit of jurisdiction, including all offshore islands, but with some additional criteria for special areas as specified in Sec. 30103.5 and
30166 of the Public Resources Code .
Collection Bin. Collection bin is defined as any box, canister, receptacle, or other container that can
be opened and closed, and is used for collecting salvageable personal property, including, but not limited to, clothing, shoes, books, and household items for periodic off-site processing and/ or redistribution. For purposes of this definition, salvageable personal property shall not include
recyclable materials not intended for re-use, including, but not limited to, newspapers, plastic,
glass, aluminum, electronics, toxic or hazardous materials, and solid waste; nor any personal property that, because of its size, does not fit inside the collection bin. See Sec. 13B.10.3.A.2. (Definitions) .
Collector Street. Collector street is defined as any public right-of-way designated as a collector street
on the Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation Element of the General
Plan.
Commercial Message. For the purposes of Sec. 4C.11.1.E.3. (Original Art Murals, Vintage Original
Art Murals & Public Art Installations), commercial message means any message that advertises a
business conducted, services rendered, or goods produced or sold.
Commercial Vehicle. Commercial vehicle is defined as any vehicle, excluding household moving
rental trucks and utility rental trailers, which when operated upon a highway is required to be
registered as a commercial vehicle by the Vehicle Code of the State of California, or by any
other jurisdiction, and that is used or maintained for the transportation of persons for hire, compensation, or profit, or designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of
property.
Commercial/Industrial Conversion Project. For the purposes of Div. 11.5. (Condominiums,
Community Apartments, & Stock Cooperatives) commercial/industrial conversion project is defined as an existing building used exclusively for commercial or industrial purposes, or both,
proposed for conversion to a condominium or stock cooperative to be used exclusively for
commercial or industrial purposes, or both through approval of a tract map or parcel map. For purposes of this definition, the term existing means that the building was constructed prior to
1945, or if it was built after 1945, a Certificate of Occupancy was issued for the building prior to the
time of map application.
Commercial/Industrial to Residential Conversion Project. For the purposes of Div. 11.5.
(Condominiums, Community Apartments, & Stock Cooperatives) commercial/industrial to residential conversion project is defined as an existing building used exclusively for commercial
or industrial purposes, or both, proposed for conversion to a condominium, stock cooperative or
community apartment to be used exclusively for residential purposes through approval of a tract map or parcel map. For purposes of this definition, the term existing means that the building was
constructed prior to 1945 or, if it was built after 1945, a Certificate of Occupancy was issued for
the building prior to the time of map application.
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Commissary Kitchen. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.2. (Commissary Kitchen), a commissary kitchen is defined
as a kitchen facility used for cooking and preparing food to be primarily served and consumed off-site. This definition includes multi-tenant shared kitchen facilities, order fulfillment kitchens,
and catering kitchen facilities. The following uses are allowed when incidential to the kitchen facility: research and teaching facilities, commercial food processing, and order fulfillment pick-up
lobbies.
Common Indoor Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3.C.5. (Common Indoor Amenity Space),
common indoor amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is covered or enclosed,
is legally required to be open to all tenants of a building, is intended to create opportunities
for social and recreational activity for tenants, and meets all of the standards in Sec. 2C3.3.C.5.
(Common Indoor Amenity Space) .
Common Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.B.3. (Common Lot Line), common lot line is defined as any
lot line shared by multiple lots. Common lot lines include all side lot lines and rear lot lines and
may include special lot lines in Dual Frontage Districts (Div. 3B.8.) .
Common Outdoor Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3.C.1. (Common Outdoor Amenity Space),
common outdoor amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors, open to
all tenants of a building, and meets the standards of Sec. 2C.3.3.C.1. (Common Outdoor Amenity
Space) .
Community Apartment Project. Community apartment project is defined pursuant to California
Business and Professions Code, Sec. 11004 .
Community Assembly. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.8. (Community Assembly), community assembly is
defined as any non-residential and not-for-profit facility that is oriented around an assembly space
used primarily for the temporary gathering of people for a shared social purpose. Access to the
general public may be limited based on association. Community assembly includes any place of
worship, community meeting room, private club, event space, assembly hall, social club, or union
hall.
Community Assembly: Local. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.8.A. (Community Assembly: Local), community
assembly: local is defined as any community assembly use that includes an assembly space 2,000
square feet or less. This use does not include similar uses that occupy more than 2,000 square
feet of total assembly space foor areal, for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.8.B. (Community Assembly:
Regional) .
Community Assembly: Regional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.8.B. (Community Assembly: Regional),
community assembly: regional is defined as any community assembly use that includes an
assembly space larger than 2,000 square feet. This use does not include similar uses that occupy
2,000 square feet or less of total assembly space foor areal, for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.8.A.
(Community Assembly: Local) .
Community Care Facilities. See community care facility.
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Community Care Facility. Community care facility is defined as any place licensed by the State of
California that is maintained and operated as a residential facility or as a social rehabilitation
facility to provide non-medical residential care, day treatment, adult day care, or foster family
agency services for persons in need of services, supervision, or assistance essential for sustaining the activities of daily living, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 1502 (a). (Definitions) . The term includes halfway house, non-medical assisted living, and substance
abuse treatment operation. For residential community care facility see Sec. 5D.2.4.A. (Supportive
Housing: General) . For non-residential community care facility see Sec. 5D.3.10. (Social Services) .
Community Plan Implementation Overlay. Community Plan Implementation Overlay is defined as a
zoning overlay adopted for a community plan area, which provides supplemental development regulations by defined subareas, which may include, public benefits incentives programs available, amount of foor areal awarded for public benefits incentives programs, applicable local affordable
housing incentive program sets, and development standards. See Sec. 8.2.2. (Community Plan
Implementation Overlay) .
Community Redevelopment Agency. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code,
Community Redevelopment Agency is defined as the former Community Redevelopment Agency
of the City of Los Angeles, which was dissolved on February 1, 2012.
Community Redevelopment Law. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code, community
redevelopment law is defined as the Community Redevelopment Law of the State of California
( California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 33000 et seq. ).
Community Redevelopment Agency - Designated Local Authority. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C.
(Definitions) of this Code, Community Redevelopment Agency - Designated Local Authority is defined as the public body formed pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 34173(c)(3) to
serve as the successor agency to the former CRA.
Condominium. Condominium is defined pursuant to California Civil Code, Chapter 1, Sec. 783 .
Contributing Element. For the purposes of Div. 13.B.8. (Historic Preservation), contributing element is
defined as any building, structure, landscaping, natural feature identified on the historic resources survey as contributing to the Historic significance of the Historic Preservation Overlay Zone,
including a building or structure which has been altered, where the nature and extent of the
alterations are determined reversible by the historic resources survey.
Controlled Drilling Site. Controlled drilling site is defined as that particular location within an oil
drilling district in an urbanized area upon which surface operations for the drilling, deepening,
or operation of a hole or well associated with an oil, gas, or hydrocarbon well, or any incidental
operation are permitted subject to the conditions prescribed by written determination by the
Zoning Administrator.
Conversion Project. For the purposes of Article 11. (Division of Land), a conversion project is an
existing building proposed for conversion to a condominium, stock cooperative, or community apartment through approval of a tract map or parcel map. For purposes of this definition, the
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term existing means that the building was constructed prior to 1945 or, where built after 1945,
a Certificate of Occupancy was issued for the building prior to the time of map application.
Conversion project includes residential conversion project, residential to commercial/industrial
conversion project, and commercial/industrial to residential conversion project.
Corner Lot. Corner lot is defined as a lot situated at the intersection of two or more streets having an
angle of intersection of not more than 135 degrees.
Covered. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.2.A.1. (Covered), covered is defined as a space or structure with less
than 25 percent of its area open to the sky.
Covered Area. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.2. (Covered Area (%)), covered area is defined as the measurement
of how open an occupiable space is to the sky.
Cultural. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), cultural is defined as anything
pertaining to the concepts, skills, habits, arts, instruments or institutions of a given people at any
given point in time.
Cultural Heritage Commission. Cultural Heritage Commission is defined pursuant to Article 1.
(Cultural Heritage Commission) of the LAAC.
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Day Laborer. Day laborer is defined as any person who offers themselves to be hired as a laborer for a
day, or some other temporary basis.
Decision Maker. Decision maker is defined as the agency or official charged with rendering a formal
decision on an application subject to Article 13. (Administration) . For the purposes of Sec. 13B.11.1.
(Environmental Review Procedures), see Sec. 13B.11.1.D.2. (Decision Maker) .
Dedication of Land. Dedication of land is defined as a conveyance of land in fee simple or as an
easement by its owner for public uses, reserving to themselves no other rights than such as are
compatible with the full exercise and enjoyment of the public uses to which the property has been
devoted.
Demolition. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.8. (Demolition), demolition is defined as the removal of an
entire structure or building. For the purposes of Sec. 4C.15.1. (Housing Projects that Result in
the Demolition of Dwelling Units) and Sec. 4C.15.2. (Non-Housing Projects that Result in the Demolition of Dwelling Units), this definition shall not apply. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), demolition is defined as the removal of more than 50 percent of the
perimeter wall framing, the removal of more than 50 percent of the roof framing, or the substantial
removal of the exterior of a facade in the Street-Visible Area.
Density Bonus. Density bonus is defined as a density increase over the otherwise maximum allowable
residential density under the applicable zoning code, and zoning designation, or Specifc Plani, granted pursuant to an applicable incentive program established in Article 9. (Public Benefit
Systems) .
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Department. Department is defined as the Department of City Planning, unless otherwise indicated.
See City Charter, Sec. 550. (Powers and Duties of the Department) .
Department of Building and Safety. The Department of Building and Safety is defined pursuant to Sec.
22.20. (The Department) of the LAAC.
Department of City Planning. Department of City Planning is defined pursuant to City Charter, Sec.
550. (Powers and Duties of the Department) .
Designated Historic Resource. Designated historic resource is defined as a building, structure, object,
landscaping element, or natural feature listed or designated as an individual resource or as a
contributor to a historic district, at the local, state, or national level, including but not limited to
listing in the National Register of Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources, or
designation as a Historic-Cultural Monument or as an Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ).
Destroyed. Destroyed is defined as damaged so as to not be habitable, or having lost 75 percent of
replacement value, as determined by the Department of Building and Safety.
Detention Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.4. (Detention Facility), detention facility is defined as any
facility where persons are incarcerated, or otherwise involuntarily confined under the jurisdiction
and custody of a governmental entity. Detention facilities include correctional facilities and penal
institutions.
Development. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)),
development is defined as: on land, in or under water, the placement or erection of any solid
material or structure; discharge or disposal of any dredged material or of any gaseous, liquid, solid,
or thermal waste; grading, removing, dredging, mining, or extraction of any materials; change in
the density or intensity of the use of land, including, but not limited to, subdivisions pursuant to
the Subdivision Map Act (commencing with Sec. 66410. of the California Government Code), and
any other division of land, including, but not limited to, parcel maps and private street divisions, lot splits, lot reconfigurations, and mergers, except where the land division is brought about in
connection with the purchase of such land by a public agency for public recreational use; change
in the intensity of use of water, or of access thereto; construction, reconstruction, demolition,
or alteration of the size of any structure, including any facility of any private, public, or municipal
utility; and the removal or harvesting of major vegetation other than for agricultural purposes, kelp
harvesting, and timber operations which are in accordance with a timber harvesting plan submitted
pursuant to the provisions of the Z'berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act of 1973 (commencing with Sec. 4511 of the California Public Resources Code) . As used in this definition, "structure" includes, but is not limited to, any building, road, pipe, flume, conduit, siphon, aqueduct, telephone line, and
electrical power transmission and distribution line.
Development Project. For the purposes of Article 15. (Fees), development project is defined as any
activity involving or requiring the issuance of a building permit that results in additional housing
units, additional non-residential foor areal, additional single-family residential foor areal, or a
change of use from non-residential to residential.
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Development Standard. For the purposes of Sec. 9.2.1. (State Density Bonus Program), Sec. 9.2.2.
(Affordable Housing Incentive Program), Sec. 9.2.3. (Opportunity Corridors Incentive Program),
Sec. 9.2.4. (Corridor Transitions Incentive Program), and Sec. 9.2.5. (Transit Oriented Incentive Program) development standard is defined as site or construction condition applicable to a
development pursuant to any ordinance, land use plan, law, policy, resolution, regulation or other local condition that is adopted or imposed by the City through its various powers, as defined in
California Government Code Sec. 65915(o)(2) . This includes, but is not limited to standards like
height, yards, foor area ratiol, open space requirements, parking space requirements, and facade
treatments.
Digital Display. Digital display is defined as a sign face, building face, or any building or structural
component that displays still images, scrolling images, moving images, or flashing images,
including video and animation, through the use of grid lights, cathode ray projections, light emitting diode displays, plasma screens, liquid crystal displays, fiber optics, or other electronic
media or technology that is either independent of, attached to, integrated into, or projected onto a
building or structural component, and that may be changed remotely through electronic means.
Direct Access. Direct access is defined as the ability of a person to move to and from a facility or
space, without necessitating travel through any intermediate space.
Director. Director is defined as the Director of the Department of City Planning, or the Director’s
designee. See Sec. 13A.1.6. (Director of Planning) .
Disabled Veteran. Disabled Veteran shall be as defined pursuant to California Government Code Sec.
18541 .
Disaster. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)), disaster
is defined as fire, flood, wind, earthquake, or other natural or man-made disaster.
Distance. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.3.A.1. (Distance), distance is defined as the amount of space between
two points.
District Boundary Height Transition. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.6.2. (District Boundary Height Transition),
district boundary height transition is defined as a reduction in the maximum height of a building
for a limited depth where abutting districts have substantially lower height allowances.
Divided-Lite. Divided-lite is defined as separate pieces of glass glazed between muntin bars.
Domestic Use. Domestic use is defined as for use or consumption within the household that
cultivates, manufactures, or generates a good. Domestic use includes goods gifted outside of the
household provided there is no reciprocal or monetary exchange.
Drilling & Production Site in the Los Angeles City Oil Field Area. Drilling & Production site in the Los
Angeles City oil field area is defined as locations within an oil drilling district in the Los Angeles City
Oil Field Area upon which surface operations for the drilling, deepening or operation of a hole or
well associated with an oil, gas, or hydrocarbon well, or any operation incident thereto, are subject
to the conditions prescribed by written determination by the Zoning Administrator.
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Drip Line. Drip line is defined as a line which may be drawn on the ground around a tree, directly
under its outermost branch tips, and which identifies that location where rainwater tends to drip
from the tree.
Drive Aisle. Drive aisle is defined as an access lane in a parking area that accommodates vehicle
circulation and access to parking stalls. Drive aisle may accommodate one-way or two-way vehicle traffic, depending on the drive aisle width provided in accordance with Sec. 4C.4.3.
(Parking Area Design) .
Drive-Through Facilities. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.2.2.C.3. (Drive-Through Facilities), a drive-through
facility is defined a facility that provides goods or services to drivers in vehicles. Drive-through
facilities include drive-through lanes consisting of queuing spaces.
Drive-Through Facility. See drive-through facilities.
Drive-Through Lane. A drive-through lane is defined as an automobile lane providing access to a
service window through which goods or services are provided directly to drivers in vehicles.
Driveway. A driveway is defined as a space along a roadway that is designed to accommodate vehicle
access to a drive aisle on a lot. Driveways are formed by a sloping break or cut in the curb along
the roadway to allow a vehicle to drive over the curb and into the lot.
Dual Frontage. Pursuant to Div. 3B.8. (Dual Frontages), apply frontage standards along special frontage
lot lines, in addition to primary and side street lot lines, on lots where multiple frontage lot lines are
prioritized for a prescribed set of design and activation standards.
Dwelling. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.1. (Dwelling), a dwelling is defined as a housing accommodation
serving as a primary residency or having an occupancy of greater than 30 consecutive days. A
dwelling includes household dwelling unit, efficiency dwelling unit, and group dwelling.
Dwelling Unit. A dwelling unit is defined as a habitable residential unit serving as a residence having an
occupancy of greater than 30 days consecutively. Includes household dwelling unit and efficiency
dwelling unit.
For the purposes of the State Density Bonus Program (Sec. 9.2.1.), Maximum Allowable Residential Density (Sec. 14.2.19.), and a one hundred percent afordable housing projectf in the Affordable
Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), a dwelling unit shall mean a habitable residential unit
serving as a residence having an occupancy of greater than 30 days consecutively that is a
complete independent living facility which includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping,
eating, a kitchen, and sanitation, or that is a shared housing unit in a shared housing building; but
the term does not include household dwelling unit or efficiency dwelling unit.
For the purposes of the Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.3.), Corridor
Transitions Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.4.), Transit Oriented Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.5.), and a faith-based organization project, shared equity project, or public land project in the Affordable
Housing Incentive Program (Sec. 9.2.2.), a dwelling unit shall mean a habitable residential unit
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serving as a residence having an occupancy of greater than 30 days consecutively that is a
complete independent living facility which includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping,
eating, a kitchen, and sanitation; but the term does not include household dwelling unit, shared
housing unit, or efficiency dwelling unit.
Dwelling Units Per Lot. Pursuant to Sec. 6C.1.1. (Dwelling Units Per Lot), dwelling units per lot is
defined as the maximum number of dwelling units allowed on a lot.
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Easement. Easement is defined as a non-possessory right given to a person or entity to use another's
property for a limited purpose, such as for access to other properties.
Eating & Drinking. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.3. (Eating & Drinking), eating & drinking is defined as the sale
of prepared, ready-to-consume meals or drinks for consumption by the public.
Eating & Drinking: Alcohol Service. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.3.A. (Eating & Drinking: Alcohol Service),
eating & drinking: alcohol service is a use that involves the serving and dispensing of alcoholic
beverages primarily for consumption on-site. Eating & drinking: alcohol service includes the
provision of alcoholic beverages to customers in a dining setting, while gathered at a bar or tasting
room, or in conjunction with another use, such as an entertainment venue, stadium, hotel, indoor recreation, brewery or distillery. This use does not include the sale of alcoholic beverages for off site consumption, without prepared food orders, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.12.B. (Retail: Alcohol) .
Eating & Drinking: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.3.A. (Eating & Drinking: General), eating & drinking:
general is defined as an eating & drinking use that involves serving and sale of prepared food and drinks for on or off-site consumption. Eating & drinking: general uses includes table service at a restaurant, counter service for off-site consumption, and self-service cafeteria dining. This
use does not include the dispensing of alcoholic beverages for consumption on-site, for such
uses, see Sec. 5D.6.3.B. (Eating & Drinking: Alcohol Service) . This use does not include the sale of alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption, without prepared food orders, for such uses see
Sec. 5D.6.12.B. (Retail: Alcohol) .
Efficiency Dwelling Unit. Efficiency dwelling unit is defined as a dwelling unit serving as a residency
having an occupancy of greater than 30 days consecutively, and that contains only one habitable
room, is limited to 455 square feet in foor areal, may include a kitchenette, but may not include a
full kitchen. The dwelling unit may include an exterior entry or an entry from a common interior
corridor.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station. An electric vehicle charging station is defined as one or more
electric vehicle charging spaces served by an electric vehicle charger or other charging equipment
allowing charging of electric vehicles.
Elevation. Elevation is defined as the position or location of something along a vertical direction above
or below a given vertical datum.
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Elevation Projection. Elevation projection is defined as an orthographic projection of the exterior
face of a building, represented as a two-dimensional drawing of the building facade. Elevation
projections have an angle of elevation of zero degrees (horizontal).
Eligible Tenant. For the purposes of Div. 11.5. (Condominiums, Community Apartments, & Stock
Cooperatives), eligible tenant is defined as any tenant who was a resident of the property both on
the date of tentative tract map or preliminary parcel map application and the date of approval of
such map, or at any time after that, and who does not intend to purchase a unit in the conversion
project.
Emergency. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification))
emergency is defined as a sudden, unexpected occurrence demanding immediate action to
prevent or mitigate loss or damage to life, health, property or essential public services.
Enclosed. Pursuant to Sec. 14.1.4.A.1. (Enclosed), an enclosed space is considered to be enclosed
when the perimeter of the space has an enclosure of at least 66.7 percent.
Enclosure. Pursuant to Sec. 14.1.4. (Enclosure), enclosure is defined as the measurement of how
closed off an occupiable space is to its surroundings.
End Stall. An end stall is defined as the last parking stall in a row, beyond which the drive aisle does not
continue.
Entertainment Venue, Indoor. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.4. (Entertainment Venue, Indoor), entertainment
venue, indoor is defined as any indoor assembly use designed or intended for entertainment,
includes live music venues, performing arts theaters, movie theaters, dance clubs, comedy clubs,
karaoke lounges, and banquet halls.
Entertainment Venue, Indoor: Local. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.4.A. (Entertainment Venue, Indoor: Local),
entertainment venue, indoor: local is defined as any entertainment venue, indoor use designed for
an assembly capacity of less than 3,000 persons. For entertainment venue, indoors designed for an
assembly capacity of 3,000 or greater, see Sec. 5D.6.4.B. (Entertainment Venue, Indoor: Regional) .
This use does not include activities established in Sec. 5D.6.13. (Sexually Oriented Business) .
For the inclusion of alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption, see Sec. 5D.6.3.B. (Eating &
Drinking: Alcohol Service) .
Entertainment Venue, Indoor: Regional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.4.B. (Entertainment Venue, Indoor:
Regional), entertainment venue, indoor: regional is defined as any entertainment venue, indoor use
designed for an assembly capacity of 3,000 persons or greater. For entertainment venue, indoors
designed for an assembly capacity of less than 3,000 persons, see Sec. 5D.6.4.A. (Entertainment
Venue, Indoor: Local) . This use does not include activities established in Sec. 5D.6.13. (Sexually
Oriented Business) . For the inclusion of alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption, see Sec.
5D.6.3.B. (Eating & Drinking: Alcohol Service) .
Entrance Spacing. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.5.1.C.2. (Entrance Spacing), entrance spacing is defined as the
distance between street-facing entrances meeting the standards of Sec. 3C.5.1.C.1. (Street-Facing
Entrance General Standards) .
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Entry Feature. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature), entry features are defined as improved design
standards applied to each entrance along the public realm.
Entry Feature Option. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.5.2.C.2. (Entry Feature Options), entry feature options are
defined as packages of design standards applied to each entrance along the public realm.
Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development
Permit (Post-Certification)) an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHA) is defined as any officially mapped area in which plant or animal life or their habitats are either rare or especially
valuable because of their special nature or role in an ecosystem and which could easily be disturbed or degraded by human activities and developments, and any area identified as a wetland, an environmentally sensitive habitat or as a sensitive coastal resource area, in a certified local coastal program, a certified land use plan or a certified Specifc Plani .
Equine. Equine is defined as any horse, pony, donkey, burro, or mule which is 12 months of age or
older, and is issued a current Equine License by the City Department of Animal Services. An animal which is under 12 months of age, and is the offspring of or is unweaned and being nursed by a
female equine lawfully kept on the property where said animal is kept, shall not be considered an
equine.
Evaluation Of Non-Compliance. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.6.1. (Evaluation Of Non-Compliance), evaluation
of non-compliance is the procedure 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.
Existing Building. An existing building is defined as a building lawfully constructed and completed
under a building permit, if a building permit was required.
Existing Grade. Existing grade is defined as the grade prior to grading.
Existing Uses. An existing use is defined as any use enumerated in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) for
which any lot or portion of a lot is used at the time the property is first classified in a zone, or
subsequently allowed through Div. 13B.3. (Ministerial Action), Div. 13B.1. (Legislative Action), or Div.
13B.2. (Quasi-Judicial Review) .
Extended Home-Sharing. For the purposes of Sec. 5C.3.2.B.4. (Extended Home-Sharing), extended
home-sharing is defined as home-sharing that is permitted for an unlimited number of days in a
calendar year.
Exterior Face. Exterior face is defined as the outermost surface of any object such as a window, wall,
or building.
Exterior Material Option. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.10.3. (Exterior Material Options), exterior material option
is defined as building products allowed for use as primary or accessory exterior wall finish material.
Exterior Modification. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.5. (Exterior Modification), exterior modification is
defined as work to the exterior of a building or structure.
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Exterior Wall. Exterior wall is defined as any wall which forms the envelope of a building, separating its
interior from its exterior.
Extremely Low Income Household. Extremely low income household is defined as a household with
an annual income that does not exceed the amount designated for that category as defined in
California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50106 .
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Facade. Facade is defined as the above-grade, non-roof portions of the exterior building envelope,
which includes cornices, bay windows or architectural projections, of any exterior wall of a
building.
Facade Area. Facade area is defined as any surface area of a facade.
Facade Modification. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.5.a. (Facade Modification) facade modification is an
exterior modifcationi that includes a change to a building facade involving a modification of its
existing design or outward appearance.
Facade Plane. See Building Face.
Faces. See facing.
Faith-Based Organization Project. Faith-based organization project is defined as a project containing
dwelling units located on land owned entirely, whether directly or through a wholly owned company or corporation, by a religious institution at the time of project filing and developed by or in partnership with a qualified developer. This includes ownership through an affiliated or associated nonprofit public benefit corporation organized pursuant to the Nonprofit Corporation
Law ( California Corporations Code, Sec. 5110. et seq. ).
Facing. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.6. (Facing), facing is defined as the exterior portions of a structure that
are exposed to a specified object or site element.
Feasible. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)) and Sec.
13B.9.1.A.1. (Definitions), feasible is defined as capable of being accomplished in a successful
manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic, environmental, social
and technological factors.
Fence. A fence is defined as a constructed vertical barrier of wood, masonry, wire, metal, or other
manufactured material, or combination of materials erected to enclose, screen, or separate areas. A fence differs from a wall in not having a solid foundation along its entire length.
Fill. Pursuant to LAMC Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.7003. (Definitions), fill is defined as a
deposit of earth material placed by artificial means.
Final Map. A final map is defined as a map prepared in accordance with the provisions of Article 11.
(Division of Land), and the Subdivision Map Act subject to e recordation with the Los Angeles County Recorder upon final approval by the City.
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Financial Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.5. (Financial Services), financial services is defined as
professional services involving the investment, lending, or management of money and assets in a
publicly accessible setting rather than a private ofcefi setting. For private ofcefi settings, see Sec. 5D.6.9. (Office) .
Financial Services: Alternative. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.5.B. (Financial Services: Alternative), financial
services: alternative is defined as fnancial servicesi uses involving for-profit lending facility offering
small, unsecured, short-term loans, such as bail bonds, or a use that primarily consists of check
cashing services for a fee, or any business where articles of personal property may be left as
security in exchange for a loan of money. Financial services: alternative include pawnshops,
precious metal buyback centers, short-term credit lenders, and title loan centers. This use does
not include remittance services, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.5. (Financial Services: General) .
Financial Services: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.5.A. (Financial Services: General), financial services:
general is defined as fnancial servicesi uses that provide retail banking services. Financial services:
general include only those institutions engaged in the transfer and circulation of money, such as
banks and credit unions. For uses such as check-cashing businesses and payday lenders, see Sec.
5D.6.5.B. (Financial Services: Alternative) .
Finished Floor Elevation. Finished floor elevation is defined as the elevation of the uppermost surface
of the structural floor.
Finished Grade. Finished grade is defined as the final grade of the lot which conforms to the approved
plan, or where no grading work is proposed, the existing grade.
Fire Protection. For the purposes of Article 11. (Division of Land), fire protection is defined as such fire
hydrants and other protective devices as required by the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department.
First Public Road Paralleling the Sea. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit
(Post-Certification)), first public road paralleling the sea is defined as that road nearest to the sea, as defined in Sec. 30115 of the Public Resources Code, which: (a) is lawfully open to uninterrupted
public use and is suitable for that use; (b) is publicly maintained; (c) is an improved, all-weather road open to motor vehicle traffic in at least one direction; (d) is not subject to any restrictions
on use by the public except when closed due to an emergency or when closed temporarily for
military purposes; and (e) does, in fact, connect with other public roads, providing a continuous
access system, and generally parallels and follows the shoreline of the sea to include all portions
of the sea where the physical features, such as bays, lagoons, estuaries and wetlands cause the
waters of the sea to extend landward from the generally continuous coastline.
Flatwork. For the purposes Sec. 14.2.5.A. (Horizontal Encroachments), flatwork is defined as
constructed objects 30 inches in height or less, measured from finished grade. Examples of flatwork may include, but are not limited to: pavement, sidewalk, multi-use path, patio, low deck,
or stairs or ramps 30 inches in height or less. For the purposes of Sec. 14.2.5.B. (Vertical Encroachments), flatwork is defined as constructed
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objects 30 inches in height or less. Examples of flatwork may include, but are not limited to:
decking, walkways, patios, or planters.
Flood Hazard. Flood hazard is defined as a hazard to land or improvements due to overflow water
having sufficient velocity to transport or deposit debris, scour the surface soil, dislodge or damage
buildings, or erode the banks of water courses.
Floor Area. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.7. (Floor Area), floor area is defined as the cumulative amount of
interior floor space on a lot, within a room, or within a covered and enclosed space.
Floor Area Ratio. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.1. (Floor Area Ratio (FAR)), floor area ratio or FAR is defined as
the measurement of the total foor areal of all buildings on a lot in relation to the size of the lot.
Focal Entry Feature. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.8.3. (Focal Entry Feature), focal entry features are design
standards applied to enhance the primary entrance of a building frontage.
Focal Entry Feature Option. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.8.3.C.2. (Focal Entry Feature Options), focal entry
feature options refer to packages of design standards options applied to enhance the primary
entrance of a building frontage.
Food & Drink Preparation Area. Food & drink preparation area is defined as all foor areal within an
eating & drinking use where employees prepare food or beverages or are reserved for employee
use, including kitchens, bartender stations, dishwashing facilities, storage, refrigeration closets, employee office, and break rooms.
Footcandle. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.10.1.D. (Measurement), a footcandle is a unit of illuminance. One
footcandle is equivalent to one lumen per square foot and shall be measured using a light meter.
Foundation Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.4.2.E.3. (Foundation Inactive
Wall Treatment Alternatives), foundation inactive wall treatment alternatives are defined as
permanent design improvements located between exposed foundation walls and the public realm,
designed to improve visual interest and the pedestrian experience.
Foundation Wall. A foundation wall is defined as any above-grade portion of a facade located below
the finished ground story.
Freeway. Pursuant to Sec. 8.3.2. (Freeway), freeway is defined as any property owned by the California
Department of Transportation (Caltrans) that is used for highway purposes.
Freight Loading Area. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.2.2.C.2. (Freight Loading Areas), freight loading area is
defined as areas designated for the on-site loading and unloading of freight vehicles.
Freight Railway Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.5.2. (Freight Railway Facility), a freight railway facility is
defined as any railway facility accommodating the transportation of cargo by train on a railway
network. Freight railway facilities include freight railway track networks and accompanying railway
yards, stations, and maintenance facilities. This use does not include cargo transfer between
vehicles; for such uses see Sec. 5D.5.3. (Freight Transfer Facility) .
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Freight Transfer Facility. Pursuant Sec. 5D.5.3. (Freight Transfer Facility), freight transfer facility
is defined as a facility intended for the transshipment of freight between different modes
of transport, including ship transport, rail transport, and road transport, and accompanying
warehousing used in connection with such activities. This use does not include the storage of
empty cargo containers; for such uses; see Sec. 5D.7.5.E. (Storage, Outdoor: Cargo Container) .
Frequency. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.8. (Frequency), frequency is defined as the rate at which something
occurs or is repeated over a given distance.
Front Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.B.1. (Front Yard), a front yard is the area between a primary street
lot line and an imaginary line running parallel to the primary street lot line. The imaginary line shall
be drawn 15 feet back from the portion of the primary street lot line-facing facade nearest to the
primary street lot line, measured perpendicularly to the lot line.
Frontage Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.B.1. (Frontage Lot Line), a frontage lot line is any lot line
that triggers Frontage District (Part 3B.) requirements. Frontage lot lines include all primary street
lot lines and side street lot lines.
Frontage Planting Area. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.3.1. (Frontage Planting Area), a frontage planting area is
defined as the area in a frontage yard designated and designed for plants.
Frontage Screen. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.8.1. (Frontage Screens), a frontage screen is defined as a device
or combination of elements, including fences, walls, trees and other plants, along a frontage lot
line that conceals, obstructs or protects the public realm from adjacent uses, activities, or site
elements.
Frontage Screen Type. Pursuant to, Sec. 4C.8.1.C.2. (Frontage Screen Types), frontage screen types are
defined as packages of standards for required frontage screens.
Frontage Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.C.1. (Frontage Yard), frontage yard is defined as a category of
yards referring to all yards that abut a frontage lot line, including front yards, side street yards, and
special yards.
Frontage Yard Fence & Wall. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.3.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall), frontage yard
fence & wall is defined as fences, walls, and hedges that are allowed in a frontage yard.
Frontage Yard Fence & Wall Type. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.3.2.C.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall Types),
frontage yard fence & wall types refer to a package of standards, specified by the applied Frontage
District (Part 3B.), that applies to fences, walls, and hedges located in a frontage yard.
Fueling Station. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.2. (Fueling Station), a fueling station is defined as any use
dedicated to the sale and dispensing of vehicle fuel.
Fueling Station: Large Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.2.B. (Fueling Station: Large Vehicle), fueling
station: large vehicle is defined as any fueling station dedicated to dispensing fuel for large
vehicles. Large vehicles include vehicles possessing three or more axles, such as trailer trucks,
construction vehicles, motor homes, and recreation vehicles.
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Fueling Station: Standard Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.2.A. (Fueling Station: Standard Vehicle),
fueling station: standard vehicle is defined as any fueling station dedicated to dispensing fuel for
standard vehicles. Standard vehicles include vehicles possessing two or fewer axles, such as cars,
motorcycles, sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and vans.
Full-service Grocery Store. Full-service grocery store is defined as a retail store which stocks a
minimum inventory in the following food groups and non-perishable items: fresh and frozen
meats and poultry; canned, fresh, and frozen fruits and vegetables; dairy products; cereals; canned fish; bread products; infant food and formula; shampoo; pain medication; diapers; and feminine
hygiene products.
Fully Shielded Luminaire. Fully shielded luminaire is defined as a luminaire that allows no light
emission above a horizontal plane through the luminaire.
Future Street or Alley. Future street or alley is defined as any real property which the owner has
offered for dedication to the City for street or alley purposes, but which has been rejected by the
City Council, subject to the right of the City Council to rescind its action and accept by resolution
at any later date and without further action by the owner, all or part of the property as a public
street or alley.
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General Commercial Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.6. (General Commercial Uses), general commercial
uses are defined as uses that involve business activity serving the general public, including retail,
professional and personal services, hospitality, and entertainment.
General Plan. The General Plan is the City’s comprehensive framework that sets forth policies,
goals, and objectives to guide the physical development of the City, while outlining the vision
and priorities of the City. It consists of 11 citywide elements in addition to a Land Use Element,
composed of 34 Community Plans. The General Plan serves as the legal basis for all land use
policy decisions. Preparation and maintenance of the General Plan is mandated by the State,
pursuant to California Government Code, Title 7. (Planning and Land Use), Sec. 65300 .
General Plan Land Use Designation. General Plan Land Use Designations are designations established
in Appendix A to the Framework Element, which broadly identifies intensities, densities, heights,
and general uses allowed where the designations are mapped on the General Plan Land Use Map,
and implemented through the corresponding zoning districts from the Zoning Code, as shown in
correspondence tables in Appendix A or as otherwise provided in the community plan.
Gore-Shaped Lot. A gore-shaped lot is defined as an irregularly shaped lot that includes an angle of 65
degrees or less between intersecting lot lines.
Grade. Grade is defined as the elevation or contour of the ground surface of a lot.
Grade Plane. See grade plane elevation.
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Grade Plane Elevation. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.9. (Grade Plane Elevation), grade plane elevation is
defined as a reference plane, representing the average elevation of the existing ground level
adjoining a building and its exterior walls, from which the height of a building or structure shall be
measured.
Grading. Grading is defined as any cut or fill, combination of cut and fill, or recompaction of soil, rock,
or other earth materials.
Grocery Store. For the purposes of Article 15. (Fees), grocery store is defined as a project that is for a
retail use of which greater than 1/2 of the foor areal is devoted to the sale of food items intended for consumption or use off the premises, excluding alcoholic beverages.
Ground Floor. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.C. (Ground Floor), ground floor is defined as the fnished fi oor l
elevation of the ground story.
Ground Floor Elevation. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation), ground floor elevation is
defined as the finished floor height associated with the story of a building having its fnished fi oor l
elevation nearest to the finished grade.
Ground Story. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.A. (Ground Story), ground story is defined as the lowest story
of a building meeting the criteria of either Continuous Ground Story (Typical) or Ground Story
Modules pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10. (Story), depending on site and building conditions.
Ground Story Facade. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.B. (Ground Story Facade), ground story facade is
defined as the facade of the ground story for the full height of the ground story.
Ground Story Height. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.6.1. (Ground Story Height), ground story height is defined as
the floor-to-floor height of the story of a building having its fnished fi oor elevationl nearest to the
finished grade.
Ground Story Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.4.2.E.3. (Ground Story Inactive
Wall Treatment Alternatives), ground story inactive wall treatment alternatives are permanent
design improvements located between segments of ground story active wall and the public realm,
designed to improve visual interest and the pedestrian experience.
Ground Story Windows. Ground story windows are defined as any windows on the ground story
facade.
Ground Surface. Ground surface is defined as any hardscape or softscape surface which is at-grade
and is exterior to any building.
Ground-Mounted Equipment. Ground-mounted equipment is defined as any mechanical equipment
or utility equipment that is fixed to the ground at or below grade in order to serve a building
or facility on the same site. See Sec. 4C.12.2. (Ground-Mounted Equipment) for applicable
development standards.
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Habitable Room. Habitable room is defined as an enclosed space in a residential building commonly
used for living purposes, but not including any lobby, hall, closet, storage space, water closet, bath,
toilet, slop sink, general utility room, kitchen area, or service porch. A recess from a room or an
alcove (other than a dining area), or a mezzanine having 50 square feet or more of foor areal, and located where it could be partitioned off to form a habitable room, shall be considered a habitable
room.
Habitable Space. Habitable space is defined as any occupiable space designed and intended for living,
sleeping, eating, or cooking. Restrooms, toilet rooms, closets, halls, storage or utility spaces, and
similar areas are not considered habitable spaces.
Health Center. For the purposes of Sec. 9.3.4.C.3. (Health Center Incentive Area), a health center is
defined as a healthcare facility certified by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), or FQHC Look-Alike as defined by the HRSA.
Hearing Officer. A hearing officer is defined as any Department of City Planning staff member
conducting a public hearing on behalf of the Director or the City Planning Commission.
Heavy Commercial Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.7. (Heavy Commercial Uses), heavy commercial uses are
defined as uses that involve the servicing and sale of motor vehicles, and businesses dedicated
primarily to storage.
Heavy Industrial Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.9. (Heavy Industrial Uses), heavy industrial uses are defined
as uses involving manufacturing, processing of animal products, waste, or extraction activities,
which requires siting away from the general public due to potentially adverse impacts on the
immediate surroundings.
Height in Feet. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.2. (Height in Feet), height in feet is defined as the vertical
dimension of a building or structure measured in feet.
Height in Stories. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories), height in stories is defined as the vertical
dimension of a building measured in stories.
Heliport. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.5.4. (Heliport), heliport is defined as any public-use, special-use,
or personal-use airport, as defined by the California Code of Regulations, Title 21. Sec. 3527. (Definitions), suitable only for use by helicopters.
High-Rise Sign 1. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.2. (High-Rise Sign 1), a high-rise sign 1 is a sign located at
least 100 feet above-grade and attached to the wall of a building.
High-Rise Sign 2. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.3. (High-Rise Sign 2), a high-rise sign 2 is a sign located at
least 100 feet above-grade and attached to the wall of a building within close proximity to the top
of the building.
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High Quality Transit Service. High quality transit service is defined as a transit route with a service
frequency of 15 minutes or less during peak commute hours in one direction. For the purpose
of determining service interval frequency, a bus route may include a combination of overlapping
bus lines when part of a “colinear” or “family” line as determined in coordination with Southern
California Association of Governments (SCAG and local transit agencies, may be considered as one
service route for the purpose of calculating service interval frequency.
Higher Opportunity Area. Higher opportunity area is defined as including High and Highest Resource
Areas as defined and identified by the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) .
Hillside Area. Pursuant to Sec. 1.5.6. (Hillside Area Map), a hillside area is defined as any area shown on
the Hillside Area Map.
Historic. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), historic is defined as any building,
structure, landscaping, natural feature, or lot, including street features, furniture or fixtures, which depicts, represents or is associated with persons or phenomena which significantly affect or which have significantly affected the functional activities, heritage, growth or development of the City,
state, or nation.
Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), Historic
Preservation Overlay Zone is defined as any area of the City containing buildings, structures, landscaping, natural features or lots having historic, architectural, cultural or aesthetic significance
and designated as a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone.
Historic Resource. For the purposes of Div. 13B.12. (Redevelopment Plan Procedures) of this Code,
historic resource is defined as designated or surveyed resources including properties listed in or
formally determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the California
Register of Historical Resources, locally designated Historic-Cultural Monuments (HCMs) and Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs); and properties identified as significant per eligibility
criteria in SurveyLA and the Community Redevelopment Agency surveys or any subsequent City
sanctioned or accepted surveys.
Historic Resources Survey. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), a Historic Resources
Survey is a document which identifies all contributing and non-contributing buildings, structures
and all contributing landscaping, natural features and lots, individually or collectively, including street features, furniture or fixtures, and which is certified as to its accuracy and completeness by
the Cultural Heritage Commission.
Historic-Cultural Monument. Pursuant to Sec. 22.171.10. (Procedures for Designation of Monuments)
of the LAAC, a Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM) is defined as any building, structure,
landscaping, natural feature, or lot designated by the City as a City Historic-Cultural Monument.
Historical Property Contract. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), a historical
property contract is defined as a contract between an owner or owners of a Historical-Cultural
Monument or a contributing element and the City, which meets all requirements of Sec. 50281
and 50282 of the California Government Code and Sec. 19.140 et seq. of the LAAC.
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Historical Resource. As defined by California Public Resources Code, Sec. 21084.1., and as determined
by the Director, in consultation with the Office of Historic Resources, a historical resource means those resources that meet the definition of a historical resource in Sec. 21084.1 (Historical Resources) of the Public Resources Code and Sec. 15064.5(a) (Determining the Significance of
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Impacts to Archaeological and Historical Resources) of the CEQA Guidelines.
Homeless Person. Homeless person as defined in the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance
Act ( 42 U.S.C. Sec. 11301 et seq. ).
Horizontal Band Articulation. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.3. (Horizontal Band Articulation), horizontal band
articulation is defined as a continuous band of material running horizontally across a facade.
Horizontal Encroachment. Pursuant to Sec. 14.1.5.A. (Horizontal Encroachments), a horizontal
encroachment is defined as a structure or assembly that extends horizontally into a space where
structures are typically prohibited.
Horizontal Illuminance. Horizontal illuminance is defined as the amount of light falling on a horizontal
plane, as measured with a light meter in units of footcandles.
Hospital. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.5. (Hospital), hospital is defined as an inpatient or outpatient healthcare
facility that provides direct medical treatment to patients.
Hospital: Local. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.5.A. (Hospital: Local), hospital: local is defined as an inpatient or
outpatient acute or subacute care facility with a capacity of 100 or fewer beds that provides direct
medical treatment to patients. This use does not include outpatient facilities not providing acute or
sub-acute care, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.8. (Medical Clinic) .
Hospital: Regional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.5.B. (Hospital: Regional), hospital: regional is defined
as an inpatient acute care and sub-acute care facility with a capacity of more than 100 beds
that provides direct medical treatment to patients. This use does not include inpatient facilities
providing sub-acute care with a capacity of fewer than 100 beds, for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.5.A.
(Hospital: Local) .
Host. For the purposes of Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), host is defined as an individual who is
registered for home-sharing pursuant to Sec. 5C.3.2. (Home-Sharing Program) .
Hosting Platform. For the purposes of Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), hosting platform is
defined as a person that participates in short-term rental business by collecting or receiving a
fee, directly or indirectly through an agent or intermediary, for conducting a booking service
transaction using any medium of facilitation.
Household. Household is defined as one or more persons living together in a dwelling unit, with
common access to, and common use of all living, kitchen, and eating areas within the dwelling
unit.
Household Business. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2. (Household Business), a household business is a use that
combines a dwelling with productive uses and entrepreneurial activities within a unit or building.
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Household Business: Family Child Care. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2.A. (Household Business: Family Child
Care), a household business: family child care is defined as the provision of non-medical care and
supervision for children in the provider's primary residence for periods of less than 24 hours per
day. No more than 14 children shall be in care, unless Use District standards specify otherwise.
Any children under the age of 10 years who reside within the dwelling unit and are in care count
toward the maximum number of children in care. This use shall comply with all regulations set
forth in California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 1597.465. (Family Day Care Homes) .
Household Business: Home Occupation. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2.B. (Household Business: Home
Occupation), household business: home occupation is defined as the incidental use of a dwelling
unit for the intent of conducting a business enterprise by a primary resident of the dwelling unit.
Home occupation business enterprises are limited to instructional services, personal services,
ofcefi uses, and industrial homework.
Household Business: Home-Sharing. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2.C. (Household Business: Home-Sharing),
household business: home-sharing is defined as the use of a primary residence for lodging
for periods of 30 days consecutively or less, and no more than 120 days annually. The use of a
dwelling unit for home-sharing shall be in conjunction with a dwelling use. The use of a dwelling
unit for home-sharing shall meet the registration and eligibility requirements pursuant to Sec.
5C.3.2. (Home-Sharing Program) .
Household Business: Joint Living & Work Quarters. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2.D. (Household Business:
Joint Living & Work Quarters), household business: joint living & work quarters is defined as the
adaptive reuse of a building or portion of a building, which is part of an adaptive reuse project,
from commercial or industrial uses to household business: live/work use.
Household Business: Live/Work. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.2.E. (Household Business: Live/Work),
household business: live/work is defined as the combination of a dwelling unit with a work space
designated for productive uses and entrepreneurial activities within a single dwelling unit.
Household Dwelling Unit. Household dwelling unit is defined as a dwelling unit serving as a residency
having an occupancy of greater than 30 days consecutively, and that includes a kitchen or
kitchenette.
Housing Development Project. As the term "housing development" is defined in subdivision (i) of
California Government Code, Sec. 65915., a development project with five or more dwelling
units including mixed-use developments; and subdivisions or common interest developments as defined in California Civil Code, Sec. 4100.
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Illuminated Canopy Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.4. (Illuminated Canopy Sign), an illuminated
canopy sign is defined as a sign integrated into an enclosed internally illuminated canopy that is
attached to the wall of a building.
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In-Kind. In-kind is defined as a replacement with the same material type, design, dimension, texture,
detailing, and exterior appearance.
Incentive. For purposes of Sec. 9.2.1. (State Density Bonus Program), Sec. 9.2.2. (Affordable Housing
Incentive Program), Sec. 9.2.3. (Opportunity Corridors Incentive Program), Sec. 9.2.4. (Corridor
Transitions Incentive Program), and Sec. 9.2.5. (Transit Oriented Incentive Program), incentive is defined as a reduction in a site development standard or a modification to a site zoning code or architectural design requirement that results in identifiable and actual cost reductions to provide for affordable housing costs as defined in California Government Code Sec. 65915(k) .
Inclusionary Housing Project. Inclusionary housing project is defined as a project involving the
construction of 10 or more dwelling units which is subject to the requirements established in Sec.
5C.3.1. (Inclusionary Housing Program) .
Individual with a Disability. For the purposes of Reasonable Accommodation (Sec. 13B.5.5.), as defined
under the Acts, individual with a disability is any person who has a physical or mental impairment
that limits one or more major life activities, anyone who is regarded as having that type of
impairment or, anyone who has a record of that type of impairment.
Indoor Recreation. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.2. (Indoor Recreation), indoor recreation is defined as any
indoor use providing sports, fitness, leisure, amusement, or recreational facilities. Indoor recreation includes the following uses when fully indoors: sports courts, health clubs, spas, fitness, martial
arts, and dance studios, gymnasiums, aquatics centers, bowling alleys, billiard halls, gaming
arcades, ice skating and roller rinks, skate parks, play facilities, and amusement rides.
Indoor Recreation: Commercial. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.2.B. (Indoor Recreation: Commercial), indoor
recreation: commercial is defined as any indoor recreational use owned or operated by a private
or commercial entity. This use does not include associated spectator facilities with seating capacity
greater than 500 seats, for such uses see Sec. 5D.4.1. (Amphitheater or Stadium) .
Indoor Recreation: Public. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.2.A. (Indoor Recreation: Public), indoor recreation:
public is defined as any indoor recreational use owned or operated by or in partnership with a
public institution.
Industrial Homework. Industrial homework is the same as defined in California Labor Code, Sec. 2650 .
Instructional Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.6. (Instructional Services), instructional services are
defined as any establishment primarily engaged in offering avocational or recreational educational
courses to adults or children for the purposes of play, amusement, or relaxation, including education offered for the intent of teaching the fundamentals, skills, or techniques of a hobby or activity. Includes establishments offering programs in art, cooking, drama, driving, language, music,
sewing, tutoring, or other similar forms of self-improvement. For vocational and other educational
uses, see Sec. 5D.3.9. (School) .
Integrated Parking. Integrated parking is defined as a parking structure within or attached to a building
that is primarily used for a non-parking uses, such as residential or commercial uses. For a parking
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structure to be considered an integrated parking structure, the motor vehicle use area in a building
shall not be greater than the foor areal of the building.
Intensification of Use. Pursuant to Sec. 14.1.15.B.6.b. (Intensification of Use), intensification of use is
defined as work that increases the intensity of a use, such as an increase in dwelling units, seating
capacity, or the number of people in care.
Interim Lodging Unit Housing Project. Interim lodging unit housing project is defined as the physical
re-purposing or adaptation of an existing lodging unit, for use as supportive housing or transitional
housing for persons experiencing homelessness or those at risk of homelessness.
Interior. Interior is defined as all enclosed and covered areas included within surrounding exterior
walls of a building.
Interior Wall. Interior wall is defined as any wall which is within the building envelope and that is not
separating the building's interior from its exterior.
Inundation. Inundation is defined as ponded water, or water in motion, of sufficient depth to damage
property due to the presence of the water or to the deposit of silt.
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Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit. See Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning), Sec. 12.03.
(Definitions) of this Code.
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Kitchen. Kitchen is defined as an area designed to be used for the preparation of food that includes
a sink and has all of the following standards: 1) a refrigerator rough-in greater than 30 inches in
width; 2) a gas connection or 240V electrical connection; 3) an oven and range; and 4) counter
space in excess of 10 square feet.
Kitchenette. Kitchenette is defined as an area designed to be used for the preparation of food that
includes a sink and meets all of the following standards: 1) a refrigerator rough-in 30 inches in
width or less; 2) no gas connection or 240V electrical connection; 3) counter space 10 square feet
or less.
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Landing Platform. Landing platform is defined as the portion of a floor adjacent to an elevator, ramp,
stair, or door, designed to provide a stable space to stand.
Landscaping. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), landscaping is defined as the
design and organization of landforms, hardscape, and softscape, including individual groupings of
trees, shrubs, groundcovers, vines, pathways, arbors, etc. As the term is used in the remainder of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), landscaping is defined as any lot non-building structure features
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including; standalone fences and walls, site furniture, fatworkl, ground treatments, vegetation,
landforms, stormwater management features, outdoor lighting, water features, or outdoor access
and circulation.
Large Species Tree. Large species tree is defined as a tree with a minimum 30-foot canopy spread at
maturity.
Leachates. Leachates is defined as any liquid which has come into contact with or percolated through
composting or curing materials and contains extracted or dissolved substances therefrom, or any
other liquid which has been generated by the decomposition process.
Leader. Leader is defined as the tip of the main stem of a plant.
Light Industrial Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.8. (Light Industrial), light industrial uses are defined as uses
involving the production, warehousing, or manufacturing of goods, materials, and products in an intensive manner that require a significant separation from residential and commercial districts.
Light Trespass. Light trespass is defined as light that falls beyond the property it is intended to
illuminate.
Linkage Fee. Pursuant to Sec. 15.4.3. (Affordable Housing Linkage Fee), linkage fee is defined as the
fee assessed on certain development projects in order to mitigate the impact of the additional demand for affordable housing caused by such activity.
Living Wall. Living wall is defined as a system permanently attached to the exterior building facade,
supporting vegetation with its growing medium and integrated irrigation system.
Loading Space. Loading space is defined as a designated space within a motor vehicle use area that
accommodates the short-term parking of a vehicle for the purposes of loading and unloading
passengers, goods, or materials.
Local Coastal Program. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-
Certification)), Local Coastal Program is the City's land use plans and other applicable general plan
elements, zoning ordinances, zoning district maps, and proposed implementing actions, which
when taken together, meet the requirements of, and implement the provisions and policies of, the
California Coastal Act of 1976.
Local Public Agency. For purposes of Sec. 9.4.1. (Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program),
Sec. 9.4.2. (Interim Conversions of Lodging Units Program), local public agency is defined as an agency, identified on a list maintained by the Department of City Planning, that funds
supportive housing and transitional housing for persons experiencing homelessness or at risk of
homelessness.
Local Street. Local street is defined as any public right-of-way designated as a local street on the
Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
Lodging. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.7. (Lodging), lodging is defined as commercial overnight
accommodations for transient occupancy, often for periods of 30 consecutive days, or less.
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Lodging uses shall not serve as a primary residence. Lodging uses include, hotels, motels, hostels, and bed and breakfast establishments. This use does not include uses defined in Sec. 5D.2.2.C.
(Household Business: Home-Sharing) . For residential housing accommodations see Div. 5D.2.
(Residential Uses) .
Lodging Unit. Lodging unit is defined as any habitable room or rooms, designed or used for transient
occupancy by a single party, often for a period of 30 consecutive days or less. Lodging units must
be associated with the lodging commercial use.
Los Angeles City Oil Field Area. Pursuant to Sec. 8.2.4.B.3.d. (Los Angeles City Oil Field Area) is defined
as all land in the City within the areas identified on the maps in Ord. No. 156,166 located in Council
File No. 80-3951, and shall include all oil producing zones beneath those areas, but no deeper
than the third zone beneath the surface of the earth.
Los Angeles Fire Department Equipment. Los Angeles Fire Department Equipment is defined as any
equipment owned or installed for the use of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Lot. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.11. (Lot) a lot is defined as one or more parcels of land identified for the
purpose of development and meets all the standards of Sec. 14.2.11. (Lot) .
Lot Amenity Alternatives. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.5. (Lot Amenity Alternatives) lot amenity alternatives
are defined as space types with a predetermined set of design standards that may be used as an
allowable alternative to the standard lot amenity space requirements of a Form District (Part 2B.) .
Lot Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.1. (Lot Amenity Space), lot amenity space is defined as an
area on a lot designated to be used for active or passive recreation, including common outdoor
amenity space, pedestrian amenity space, and public amenity space.
Lot Area. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.1.1. (Lot Area), lot area is defined as the amount of land area within the
boundaries of a lot.
Lot Area Per Household Dwelling Unit. Pursuant to Sec. 6C.1.3. (Lot Area per Efficiency Dwelling Unit),
lot area per efficiency dwelling unit is defined as the maximum number of efficiency dwelling units
allowed on a lot based on lot area.
Lot Area Per Efficiency Dwelling Unit. Pursuant to Sec. 6C.1.2. (Lot Area per Household Dwelling Unit),
lot area per household dwelling unit is defined as the maximum number of household dwelling
units allowed on a lot based on lot area.
Lot Line. Lot line is defined as the legal boundaries of a lot, as determined pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12. (Lot
Line Determination) .
Lot Line-Facing Facade. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.6.B. (Lot Line-Facing Facade), lot line-facing facade is
defined as the portions of any frontage applicable facade pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.C.3. (Frontage
Applicable Facades) having no permanent structure (not including fences or walls) located
between the building facade and a common lot line.
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Lot Modification. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.3. (Lot Modification), lot modification is defined as the
modification of the lot lines of any existing lot through the Subdivision Map Act and Article 11. (Division of Land), including the division of land as defined in California Government Code, Title 7.
(Planning and Land Use), Sec. 66424 .
Lot Tie. Lot tie is defined as a legally binding covenant to hold multiple lots as one.
Lot Width. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.1.2. (Lot Width), lot width is defined as the length of primary street lot
lines bounding a lot.
Low Impact Development. Low impact development refers to the Low Impact Development (LID)
program, which establishes requirements for stormwater and urban runoff control. The program
is administered by LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) and is authorized by Chapter VI., Sec. 64.72. (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Measures for Development Planning and
Construction Activities) of this Code.
Low Income Household. A low income household is a household whose annual income, adjusted for
family size, does not exceed 80 percent of the area median income as designated for this category
in the California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50079.5 .
Lower Income Household. A lower income household is a household whose annual income, adjusted
for family size, does not exceed 80 percent of the area median income as designated for this
category in California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50079.5 . Lower income household includes
very low income households and extremely low income households. For the purposes of Div. 13B.12. (Redevelopment Plan Procedures) of this Code, lower income household is defined as the
meaning ascribed thereto in the Development Guidelines and Controls for Residential Hotels in
the City Center and Central Industrial redevelopment project areas, adopted by the former CRA on
June 15, 2006.
Lower Income Student. Lower income student is defined as a student who has a household income
and asset level that does not exceed the level for Cal Grant A or Cal Grant B award recipients as
set forth in California Education Code Sec. 69432.7(k)(1) . The eligibility of a student to occupy a dwelling unit for lower income students shall be verified by an affidavit, award letter, or letter of
eligibility provided by the institution of higher education in which the student is enrolled or by the California Student Aid Commission that the student receives or is eligible for financial aid,
including an institutional grant or fee waiver from the college or university, the California Student
Aid Commission, or the federal government.
Lower Opportunity Area. Low Resource Areas as defined and identified by the California Tax Credit
Allocation Committee (TCAC) .
Luminaire. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.10.1. (Outdoor Lighting), luminaire is defined as the complete lighting
unit (fixture), consisting of a lamp or lamps, and ballasts (when applicable), together with the parts designed to distribute the light (reflector, lens, diffuser), to position and protect the lamps, and to
connect the lamps to the power supply.
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Machine Shop. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.1. (Machine Shop), a machine shop is defined as any facility
engaged in the maintenance, repair, custom fabrication and finishing of products, parts, props,
equipment, or machinery primarily using metal and woodworking machinery and tools. This use
does not include the servicing of consumer goods when occupying less than 3,000 square feet in
area; for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.10. (Personal Services) . This use does not include motor vehicle
repair and maintenance; for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.1. (Motor Vehicle Services) . This use does not
include the fabrication of heavy machinery used for manufacturing, motor vehicles, aircraft or
watercraft; for such uses see Sec. 5D.9.2.A. (Manufacturing, Heavy: General) .
Main Traveled Roadway of a Freeway. Main traveled roadway of a freeway is defined as the portion
of a freeway, including interchange roadways connecting one freeway with another, which is designed for the movement of large volumes of vehicular traffic, efficiently and safely at high
speed. Does not include service roadways, landscape areas, or ingress or egress ramps connecting
the freeway with other streets.
Maintenance & Repair. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.9. (Maintenance & Repair), maintenance & repair is
defined as work that does not qualify as a site modifcationi, major remodel, exterior modifcationi
or new construction, and does not impact the project's ability to meet any applicable zoning
requirements. Replacement of deteriorated or damaged parts of a building is considered
maintenance & repair; however, in a Character Frontage District, CPIO, Conservation District, or
Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, direct replacement may have additional requirements and
processes. Maintenance & repair includes repair of site components such as restriping existing
parking stripes, resealing parking lots, pothole repair, or replanting plants.
For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), maintenance & repair is defined as any work
done to correct the deterioration, decay of, or damage to a building, structure or lot, or any part
thereof, including replacement in-kind where required, and which does not involve a change in
the existing design, materials, or exterior paint color.
Major Remodel. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.2. (Major Remodel), major remodel is defined as work that
includes significant removal, disassembly, or replacement of a building or structure or portions
of a building or structure that does not add to or change the building footprint and meets the
standards in Sec. 14.2.15.B.2. (Major Remodel) .
Major Transit Stop. Major transit stop is defined pursuant California Public Resources Code Sec.
21064.3, and also includes a site containing a rail or bus rapid transit station or the intersection
of two or more bus routes with a service interval of 20 minutes or less during the morning
and afternoon peak commute periods in either direction. The stations or bus routes may be
existing, under construction or included in the most recent Southern California Association of
Governments (SCAG) Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) . A bus route may include a combination
of overlapping bus lines and may be considered as one service route for the purpose of calculating
service interval frequency when part of a “colinear”, “family”, or augmented line as determined in
coordination with SCAG and transit agencies.
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Majority. For the purposes of Article 13. (Administration), majority is defined as a majority number of
the members of the respective body, not the majority of members present.
Manager Unit. See caretaker unit.
Manufacturing, Heavy. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.2. (Manufacturing, Heavy), manufacturing, heavy is
defined as any heavy industrial use involving the making or processing of materials or components into finished products.
Manufacturing, Heavy: Chemical Products. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.2.B. (Chemical Products),
manufacturing, heavy: chemical products is defined as any manufacturing, heavy use producing
basic chemicals or manufacturing products by predominantly chemical processes. Includes, but
is not limited to, production of acid, alkali, organic chemical, salt, dry color, pigment, synthetic fiber, fertilizer, explosives, or paint. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.9.2.C.
(Manufacturing, Heavy: Petroleum & Coal Products) .
Manufacturing, Heavy: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.2.A. (Manufacturing, Heavy: General),
manufacturing, heavy: general is defined as manufacturing that requires significant health, safety,
or environmental precautions due to potential adverse impacts from the manufacturing process
on immediate surroundings. This use includes, but is not limited to, the manufacturing of heavy
machinery, motor vehicles, aircraft and watercraft, primary metal products, wood or paper products, metal fabrication, or manufacturing involving the processing, mixing, or refinement of inorganic raw materials. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.9.2.B. (Manufacturing, Heavy: Chemical Products) . This use does not include those uses defined in Sec.
5D.9.2.C. (Manufacturing, Heavy: Petroleum & Coal Products) .
Manufacturing, Heavy: Petroleum & Coal Products. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.2.C. (Manufacturing,
Heavy: Petroleum & Coal Products), manufacturing, heavy: petroleum & coal products is defined
as any manufacturing, heavy use that processes petroleum, coal, plastic, or rubber materials into products, including the refining of petroleum, gas, or other hydrocarbons.
Manufacturing, Light. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3. (Manufacturing, Light), manufacturing, light is defined
as any light industrial use involving the making or processing of materials or components into new
products.
Manufacturing, Light: Alcoholic Beverage. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3.B. (Manufacturing, Light: Alcoholic
Beverage), manufacturing, light: alcoholic beverage is defined as any manufacturing, light use
where beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages are fermented, distilled, and/or processed for
distribution and sale on a wholesale basis. For retail sale of any alcoholic beverage, see Sec.
5D.6.12.B. (Retail: Alcohol) .
Manufacturing, Light: Artistic & Artisanal. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3.C. (Manufacturing, Light: Artistic &
Artisanal), manufacturing, light: artistic & artisanal is defined as a small-scale manufacturing, light
use where skilled craftspersons are integral to the creation of each product, materials, substances,
or components, and may include, but are not limited to the use of hand tools or light mechanical equipment such as commercial mixers, sewing machines, wax melters, bottle sealers, paste filling
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machines, and button press machines. Manufacturing, light: artistic & artisanal uses are less than
5,000 square feet in area, for such uses larger than 5,000 square feet in area see Sec. 5D.8.2.
(Manufacturing, Light: General) .
Manufacturing, Light: Cosmetic & Pharmaceutical. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.2.D. (Manufacturing, Light:
Cosmetic & Pharmaceutical), manufacturing, light: cosmetic & pharmaceutical is defined as any
manufacturing, light use where cosmetics, soaps, or pharmaceutical drugs are produced. This use
includes, but is not limited to, manufacturing of makeup products, deodorants, shampoos, hair
dyes, perfumes, skin moisturizers, medications, or supplements.
Manufacturing, Light: Electronics. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.2.E. (Manufacturing, Light: Electronics),
manufacturing, light: electronics is defined as any manufacturing, light use involved in the
manufacturing or assembly of computer or electronic products, electrical equipment, appliances, fixtures, or electronic product components. This use includes testing and repair incidental to the
product or component assembly.
Manufacturing, Light: Food & Drink. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3.F. (Manufacturing, Light: Food & Drink),
manufacturing, light: food & drink is defined as any manufacturing, light use where food or drink
products are processed or manufactured. The food and beverage products manufactured in
these facilities are typically sold to wholesalers or retailers for distribution to consumers. This
use includes, but is not limited to, the processing and packaging of the following: sodas & juices, coffee & tea, ice, dairy products, fruit, nut, & vegetable products, grain & oilseeds, baked or fried
goods, sugar and confectionery products, animal food, and tobacco products. This use includes
food & drink products composed of previously rendered animal products. This use does not
include meat processing, the rendering of animal products, or animal slaughtering, for such uses
see Sec. 5D.9.1. (Animal Products Processing) . This use does not include breweries, distilleries, and
wineries, for such uses see Sec. 5D.8.2.B. (Manufacturing, Light: Alcoholic Beverage) .
Manufacturing, Light: Garment & Accessory. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3.G. (Manufacturing, Light:
Garment & Accessory), manufacturing, light: garment & accessory is defined as any manufacturing, light use involving the cutting, stitching or assembly of materials to produce finished clothing, footwear, and accessories. Specific activities include, but are not limited to, sewing of finished
textiles, printing or stenciling of designs on garments, assembly of accessories or footwear, or the knitting of finished garments. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.8.2.H.
(Manufacturing, Light: Textile) .
Manufacturing, Light: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.2.A. (Manufacturing, Light: General),
Manufacturing, light: general is defined as the manufacturing of finished goods intended to be sold
as consumer goods to the general public, including devices and instruments used in a workplace.
This use includes, but is not limited to, the manufacturing and assembly of the following: medical
equipment and supplies; semiconductors and electronic instruments; signs and printed material;
musical instruments; jewelry; toys; furniture; crates; boxes; and barrels. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.9.2.A. (Manufacturing, Heavy: General) .
Manufacturing, Light: Textile. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3.H. (Manufacturing, Light: Textile), manufacturing,
light: textile is defined as any manufacturing, light use involving mechanized production of fibers
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and fabrics used to create materials for the production of garments and accessories. Specific activities include, but are not limited to, textile spinning, weaving, dying, printing, or finishing. This use does not include those uses defined in Sec. 5D.8.2.G. (Manufacturing, light: Garment &
Accessory) .
Marquee Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.5. (Marquee Sign), a marquee sign is defined as a sign
attached to the periphery of a marquee.
Mayor. Mayor is defined pursuant to Sec. 200. (City Officers) of the City Charter .
Maximum Allowable Residential Density. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.19. (Maximum Allowable Residential
Density) maximum allowable residential density is defined as the greatest number of dwelling units allowed on a project site as defined in California Government Code Sec. 65915(o)(6) .
Mechanical Equipment. Mechanical equipment is defined as any building mechanical services
equipment including heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment; electrical systems, plumbing or
piping; or any sustainable energy systems.
Mechanical Exhaust Outlet. Mechanical exhaust outlet is defined as any pneumatic conveyor or port
which expels any air or gas as part of the function of any building mechanical systems.
Medical Clinic. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.8. (Medical Clinic), medical clinic is defined as an outpatient
healthcare facility that provides direct medical, dental, or therapeutic services to patients. This use
does not include healthcare facilities providing acute, subacute or inpatient healthcare; for such
uses see Sec. 5D.3.8.A. (Hospital: Local) and Sec. 5D.3.8.B. (Hospital: Regional) .
Mezzanine. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.H. (Mezzanine), mezzanine is defined as an intermediate level
within a story of a building.
Mineral & Ore Extraction. Pursuant to 5D.9.6. (Mineral & Ore Extraction), mineral & ore extraction
is defined as any use engaged in the extraction of metallic minerals, nonmetallic minerals, or
other natural compounds. This use includes the exploration or development of any lot for such
purposes, and any preparation of those resources until the point of shipment from the producing
property. This use includes metal ore mining, nonmetallic mineral mining, and quarrying. This use
does not include extraction, recovery, or production of oil, natural gas, or any other hydrocarbon
materials, for these activities see Sec. 5D.9.7. (Oil, Gas, or Hydrocarbon Well) .
Ministerial Action. See ministerial decision.
Ministerial Decision. Ministerial decision is defined as a decision based on the non-discretionary
application of objective standards. See Sec. 13A.2.1.B. (Procedural Categories) .
Mobile Home. Mobile home is defined as a structure transportable in one or more sections, designed
and equipped to be used as a dwelling unit or accessory dwelling unit. This structure shall comply
with all applicable provisions of the California Health and Safety Code, Div. 13. (Housing), Part
2. (Manufactured Housing) . The term “mobile home” shall not include a factory-built home,
recreational vehicle, or commercial coach.
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Mobile Home Park. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.3. (Mobile Home Park), mobile home park is defined as any
lot or portion of a lot used to provide rental or lease sites for two or more individual manufactured
homes, mobile homes, or park trailer used to provide housing accommodations.
Model Dwelling. Model dwelling is defined as a structure designed to be temporarily used as
an example of a dwelling unit which have been built or are proposed to be built in the same
subdivision or multiple unit development. See Sec. 11.1.3.M. (Model) .
Moderate Income Household. Moderate income household is defined as a household with an annual
income that does not exceed the amount designated for that category as defined in California
Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50093 .
Moderate Opportunity Area. Moderate opportunity area is defined as moderate resource areas and
areas experiencing moderate rates of rapid change as defined and identified by the California Tax
Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) .
Module. Module is defined as each of a set of parts or independent units that can be used to
construct, or as a construct for, a more complex system. See Sec. 14.2.10.A.2. (Ground Story
Modules) . See Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories) . See Sec. 14.2.9.D. (Building Module Method) .
Monument. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), monument is defined as any
building, structure, landscaping, natural feature, or lot designated as a City Historic-Cultural
Monument.
Monument Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.6. (Monument Sign), monument sign is defined as a
freestanding sign which is wholly independent of a building for support, erected directly upon the
original grade or finished grade, or that is raised no more than 12 inches from the grade to the
bottom of the sign.
Motor Vehicle. Motor vehicle is the same as defined in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40., Sec.
85.1703. (Definition of Motor Vehicle) .
Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.3. (Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental), motor vehicle
sales & rental is defined as any heavy commercial use that sells, rents, or leases motor vehicles.
Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental: Household Moving Truck Rental. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.3.C. (Motor
Vehicle Sales & Rental: Household Moving Truck Rental), motor vehicle sales & rental: household moving truck rental is defined as any motor vehicle sales & rental use involving the rental of
household moving rental trucks or utility trailers. This use does not include the outdoor storage of
vehicles that do not comprise an establishment's rental inventory, for such uses see, Sec. 5D.7.5.C.
(Storage, Outdoor: Large Vehicle) .
Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental: Large Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.3.B. (Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental:
Large Vehicle), motor vehicle sales & rental: large vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle sales
& rental use involving indoor or outdoor display of three or more new or used large vehicles for
sale, rental, or lease. Large vehicles include vehicles possessing three or more axles, such as trailer
trucks, construction vehicles, motor homes, and recreational vehicles, in addition to recreational
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boats and watercraft. This use does not include the outdoor storage of vehicles that do not
comprise an establishment's sale or rental inventory, for such uses see, Sec. 5D.7.5.C. (Storage,
Outdoor: Large Vehicle) .
Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental: Standard Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.3.A. (Motor Vehicle Sales &
Rental: Standard Vehicle), motor vehicle sales & rental: standard vehicle is defined as any motor
vehicle sales & rental use involving indoor or outdoor display of three or more new or used
standard vehicles for sale, rental, or lease. Standard vehicles include vehicles possessing two or
fewer axles, such as cars, motorcycles, sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and vans. This use does
not include the outdoor storage of vehicles that do not comprise an establishment's sale or rental
inventory, for such uses see, Sec. 5D.7.5.B. (Storage, Outdoor: Standard Vehicle) .
Motor Vehicle Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.1. (Motor Vehicle Services), motor vehicle services
are defined as a use involving the diagnosing of malfunctions, repair, or maintenance of motor
vehicles.
Motor Vehicle Services: Car Wash. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.1.D. (Motor Vehicle Services: Car Wash),
motor vehicle services: car wash is defined as any motor vehicle services use engaged in cleaning,
washing, or waxing of motor vehicles, such as passenger cars, trucks, vans, and trailers. This use
does not include wash facilities for large vehicles, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.1.C. (Motor Vehicle
Services: Large Vehicle) .
Motor Vehicle Services: Heavy. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.1.B. (Motor Vehicle Services: Heavy), motor
vehicle services: heavy is defined as any motor vehicle services use involving auto body repair
or rebuilding, painting, or servicing of standard motor vehicles. This use includes the repair or
rebuilding of a vehicle’s frame, roof, doors, fenders, bumpers, hood, trunk, automobile painting,
and electric vehicle battery reconditioning and replacement.
Motor Vehicle Services: Large Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.1.C. (Motor Vehicle Services: Large
Vehicle), motor vehicle services: large vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle services use performed for large vehicles, classified for this purpose as a vehicle having three or more axles,
such as trailer trucks, construction vehicles, motor homes, and recreation vehicles.
Motor Vehicle Services: Light. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.1.A. (Motor Vehicle Services: Light), motor
vehicle services: light is defined as any motor vehicle services use involving the mechanical or
electrical repair, diagnosis, maintenance or servicing of standard motor vehicles. This use includes
automotive emissions testing; electrical diagnostic, battery testing, and charging; tire removal,
replacement, and repair; mechanical adjustment; oil change; lubrication; sound system or alarm service and installation; and window repair. This use does not include uses defined in the following
Sections: Sec. 5D.7.1.B. (Motor Vehicle Services: Heavy), Sec. 5D.7.1.C. (Motor Vehicle Services:
Large Vehicle), or Sec. 5D.7.1.D. (Motor Vehicle Services: Car Wash) .
Motor Vehicle Use Area. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.2.2. (Motor Vehicle Use Area), motor vehicle use area is
defined as portions of a lot designed and intended for use by motor vehicles, including areas to be
used by motor vehicles for circulation, maneuvering, loading, staging, queuing, service areas and
areas to be used for the sale or storage of motor vehicles.
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Movable Tiny House. See Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning), Sec. 12.03. (Definitions) of this
Code.
Multi-Story Building. Multi-story building is defined as a building with one or more stories constructed
above the ground story.
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Native Plant. Native plant is defined as any plant species listed on Calscape as occurring in the South
Coast region.
Natural Feature. For the purposes of Div 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), natural feature is defined as any
signifcant treei, plant life, geographical or geological feature identified individually or collectively on the historic resources survey as contributing to the cultural or historic significance of the
Historic Preservation Overlay Zone.
Nature Reserve. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.3. (Nature Reserve), nature reserve is defined as an area
managed so as to protect its flora, fauna, and physical features. Nature reserve includes ecological
preserve, marine preserve, natural resource preserve, and water conservation area.
New Construction. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.1. (New Construction), new construction is defined as
work that includes the construction of a new building or structure on a lot, whether structurally
detached or attached from other existing buildings or structures on the lot. New construction
includes an addition to or relocation of an existing building or structure, or the relocation of
existing foor areal, to another location on the lot, or to any other lot. Relocation of existing buildings or structures includes any activity that lifts any portion of the building or structure off of
its foundation. New construction does not include ground mounted signs or wall mounted signs.
Non-Contributing Element. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), non-contributing
element is defined as any building, structure, natural feature, lot, or landscaping, that is identified in
the historic resources survey as a non-contributing element, or not listed in the historic resources
survey.
Non-Contributor. Non-contributor is defined as any building, structure, natural feature, lot, or
landscaping that is identified as a non-contributor in an historic resources survey or an official
nomination form accepted by the relevant agency for a designated federal, state, or local historic
district, including non-contributing elements in a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone, or is a
building, structure, natural feature, lot or landscape feature included in a district boundary with no identification.
Non-Solid Area. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.5. (Non-Solid Area), non-solid area is defined as the portions
of the perimeter planes along the perimeter of a space that have no permanent structure or
component obstructing the space from its surroundings. For the purpose of measuring the
enclosure of a space, portions of the perimeter plane are considered non-solid area where no permanent structure or component is located within five feet of the perimeter plane, measured
perpendicular to the perimeter plane and away from the subject space.
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Non-Urbanized Area. Pursuant to Sec. 8.2.4.B.2.a. (Non-Urbanized Area), non-urbanized area is
defined as all those portions of the City which the City Planning Commission or City Council has determined will not be detrimentally affected by the drilling, maintenance, or operation of oil,
gas, or hydrocarbon wells. In making its determination, the City Planning Commission, or the City
Council on appeal, shall give due consideration to the amount of land subdivided, the physical
improvements, the density of population, and the zoning of the district.
Nonconforming. See nonconforming lot, nonconforming structure, nonconforming use,
nonconforming sign, or nonconforming yard.
Nonconforming Building. See nonconforming structure.
Nonconforming Lot. Nonconforming lot is defined as a lot that conformed to the zoning regulations,
if any, at the time it was established, but does not conform to current requirements of this Zoning
Code (Chapter 1A). See Sec. 12.8.2. (Lot Area) .
Nonconforming Sign. Nonconforming sign is defined as a sign that conformed to the zoning
regulations, if any, at the time it was established, but does not conform to current requirements of
this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). See Sec. 12.4.2. (Sign Exceptions) .
Nonconforming Structure. Nonconforming structure is defined as a structure that conformed to the
regulations, if any, at the time it was established, but does not conform to current requirements of
this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). See Div. 12.1. (General Nonconforming Provisions) .
Nonconforming Use. Nonconforming use is defined as a use that conformed to the zoning
regulations, if any, at the time it was established, but does not conform to current requirements of
this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). See Div. 12.5.1. (Use Exceptions) .
Nonconforming Yard. Nonconforming yard is defined as an existing yard that conformed to the
zoning regulations, if any, at the time it was established, but does not conform to current
requirements of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A). See Div. 12.1. (General Nonconforming Provisions) .
Non-Residential Use. Non-residential use is defined as any use not listed and defined in Div. 5D.2.
(Residential Uses) . Non-residential use includes uses listed and defined in Div. 5D.3. (Public &
Institutional Uses), Div. 5D.4. (Open Space & Recreation Uses), Div. 5D.5. (Transportation Uses), Div.
5D.6. (General Commercial Uses), Div. 5D.7. (Heavy Commercial Uses), Div. 5D.8. (Light Industrial
Uses), Div. 5D.9. (Heavy Industrial Uses), and Div. 5D.10. (Agricultural Uses) .
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Occupiable. See occupiable space.
Occupiable Space. Occupiable space is defined as any area designed and intended for human
occupancy with a minimum clear height of seven feet.
Off-Site Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.3. (Off-Site Signs), off-site sign is defined as a sign that displays
any message directing attention to a business, product, service, profession, commodity, activity,
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event, person, institution, or any other commercial message, which is generally conducted, sold, manufactured, produced, offered or occurs elsewhere than on the premises where the sign is
located.
Office. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.9. (Office), office is defined as any workspace accommodating
administrative, creative and business services. Office uses may be operated independently
or combined with other uses, provided each of the other uses is permitted and meets the applicable standards. An office use includes workspace accommodating the following activities:
administrative, clerical, legal, accounting, design, consulting, graphics and sound editing, and dry
lab research.
Oil Drilling District (O). An oil drilling district established pursuant to Sec. 8.2.4. (Oil Drilling Districts) .
Oil Well Class I or A. Oil well class I or A is defined as any well associated with an oil, gas, or
hydrocarbon well drilled, conditioned arranged, used or intended to be used for the production of
petroleum.
Oil Well Class II or B. Oil well class II or B is defined as any well associated with an oil, gas, or
hydrocarbon well drilled, conditioned, arranged, used or intended to be used only for the subsurface injection into the earth of oil field waste, gases, water or liquid substances.
Oil, Gas, or Hydrocarbon Well. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.7. (Oil, Gas, or Hydrocarbon Well), oil, gas, or
hydrocarbon wells are defined as any well or hole already drilled, being drilled or to be drilled into
the surface of the earth which is used or intended to be used in connection with coring or the
drilling for prospecting for or producing petroleum, natural gas or other hydrocarbon substances, or is used or intended to be used for the subsurface injection into the earth of oil field waste,
gases, water or liquid substances, including any such existing hole, well or casing which has not
been abandoned in accordance with the requirements of Chapter V. (Public Safety and Protection),
Sec. 57.5706.3.16. (Abandonment of Oil Wells) and the mitigation monitoring program and well
plugging and abandonment mitigation measures adopted with Ordinance No. 187,709 (Oil and
Gas Drilling Ordinance) . This use does not include any well operated by a public utility regulated by
the California Public Utilities Commission.
On-Site Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.4. (On-Site Signs), on-site sign is defined as a sign that is other
than an off-site sign.
One Hundred Percent Affordable Housing Project. A one hundred percent affordable housing project
is a housing development project as specified in California Government Code Sec. 65589.5 ;
involves the construction of, addition to, or remodeling of any building or buildings that would result in the creation of five or more additional dwelling units; reserves all new dwelling units, renovated dwelling units, or dwelling units retrofitted for accessibility, exclusive of any manager units, or staff units for projects utilizing California Government Code Sec. 65913.16, as restricted
afordable unitf s, including bonus units; and restricts all units, including bonus units, for lower
income households, except that up to twenty percent may be for moderate income households.
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Opacity. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.13. (Opacity (%)), opacity is defined as the degree to which an object or
material is impervious to rays of light or obstructs visibility.
Open Space & Recreation Use. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4. (Open Space & Recreation), open space &
recreational uses are defined as uses that provide opportunities for recreation, sport, and the
enjoyment of open space and nature.
Open Space, Public. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.4. (Open Space, Public), open space, public is defined as
publicly accessible, outdoor areas for passive recreation, which include spaces such as parks,
plazas, walking trails, lawns, and picnic benches.
Open to the Sky. Open to the sky is defined as having no intervening structure between the finished
floor or ground surface and the sky.
Opposing Lot Line. Opposing lot line is defined as lot lines that do not intersect at any point.
Determinations as to whether irregular lot lines are opposing shall be made in accordance with
Sec. 14.2.14. (Irregular Lot Lines) .
Original Art Mural. Original art mural is defined as a one-of-a-kind, hand-painted, hand-tiled, or
digitally printed image on the exterior wall of a building that does not contain any commercial
message.
Outdoor Dining. Outdoor dining is defined as any covered or uncovered portion of an eating and
drinking establishment which is unenclosed and which is used primarily for the consumption of
food or drinks by the patrons of the eating and drinking establishment. Includes outdoor dining
areas that are on or above the ground story. Does not include rooftop dining.
Outdoor Dining Area. Outdoor dining area is defined as any portion of any eating & drinking use on
private property designed and intended for the service and consumption of food and drinks, that
has less than 75 percent enclosure (regardless of covered area percentage), or less than 25 percent
covered area (regardless of enclosure percentage).
Outdoor Display. Outdoor display is defined as any exhibition of goods for retail sale which are
outdoors.
Outdoor Furniture. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.n. (Outdoor Furniture), outdoor furniture is defined
as permanent or movable furniture not located within an enclosed space. Examples of outdoor
furniture may include, but are not limited to: benches, tables, or bike or scooter parking racks.
Outdoor Recreation. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.5. (Outdoor Recreation), outdoor recreation is defined as
any outdoor use providing sports, fitness, leisure, amusement, or recreation facilities. Outdoor recreation includes the following uses when outdoors: sports courts and fields, aquatic centers,
skate parks, play facilities, and amusement rides.
Outdoor Recreation: Commercial. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.5.B. (Outdoor Recreation: Commercial),
outdoor recreation: commercial is defined as any outdoor recreational use owned or operated
by a private or commercial entity. This use does not include associated spectator facilities with
seating capacity greater than 500 seats, for such uses see Sec. 5D.4.1. (Amphitheater or Stadium) .
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Outdoor Recreation: Golf Course. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.5.C. (Outdoor Recreation: Golf Course),
outdoor recreation: golf course is defined as an area of land designed and intended for the game
of golf with a series of holes each including tee, fairway, and putting green, and often one or more natural or artificial hazards. A outdoor recreation: golf course use includes any course having a
total par of 65, or greater. This use also includes a clubhouse incidental to a standard-sized golf
course. This use does not include miniature golf, pitch & putt, driving range, or 3-par courses, for
such uses see Sec. 5D.4.5.A. (Outdoor Recreation: Public) or Sec. 5D.4.5.B. (Outdoor Recreation:
Commercial) .
Outdoor Recreation: Public. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.4.5.A. (Outdoor Recreation: Public), outdoor
recreation: public is defined as any outdoor recreational use owned or operated by or in
partnership with a public institution.
Outdoor Storage Screening. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.8.3. (Outdoor Storage Screening), outdoor storage
screening is defined as fences or walls surrounding outdoor storage areas in which goods,
material, and equipment, new or used, are held outside of a building for future use.
Owner. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), owner is defined as any person,
association, partnership, firm, corporation or public entity identified as the holder of title on any
property as shown on the records of the City Engineer or on the last assessment roll of the County
of Los Angeles, as applicable. For purposes of this Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), “owner” also refers to an appointed representative of an association, partnership, firm, corporation, or public
entity which is a recorded owner.
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Parallel Parking. For purposes of on-site parking, parallel parking is defined as a parking stall having its
length parallel to its access drive aisle.
Parcel. Parcel is defined as a piece of land with defined boundaries intended for the purpose of
ownership, lease, or finance.
Parcel Map. Parcel map is defined as a map for the division of land meeting the requirements of Sec.
11.4.5. (Parcel Map) .
Park Fee. Park fee is defined as Quimby in-lieu fees and park mitigation fees pursuant to Sec. 10.4.2.
(Types of Fees) .
Park Trailer. Park trailer is the same as defined in California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 18009.3 .
Parking. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.6. (Parking), parking is defined as a facility intended for the temporary
storage of operable vehicles belonging to a site's occupants, employees, or visitors and is designed
to meet the standards of Sec. 4C.4.4. (Parking Area Design) . Includes parking structures and surface
parking lots. This use does not include long term vehicle storage, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.5.
(Storage, Outdoor) .
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Parking Area. Parking area is defined as a motor vehicle use area which is used for parking vehicles.
Examples include, parking lots and parking structures.
Parking Bay. For a double-loaded aisle, parking bay is defined as the width of two rows of parking
stalls including the width of the access drive aisle in-between. For a single-loaded aisle, parking bay is defined as the width of a single row of parking stalls including the width of the access drive
aisle.
Parking Garage. Parking garage is defined as any parking structure that is primarily used for parking.
For a parking structure to be considered a parking garage, motor vehicle use area in a building
shall be greater than or equal to the foor areal of the building. See Sec. 4C.4.6. (Parking Structure
Design) .
Parking Lot. Parking lot is defined as a parking area that has no foor areal below or above it.
Parking Setback. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.2.1. (Parking Setback), parking setback is defined as an area on a
lot along a frontage lot line where motor vehicle use areas are prohibited, including primary street
parking setbacks, side street parking setbacks, and special lot line parking setbacks.
Parking Stall. See automobile parking stall.
Parking Structure. Parking structure is defined as a building that includes parking uses. Parking
structure includes parking garages and integrated parking structures. See Sec. 4C.4.6. (Parking
Structure Design) .
Parkway. Parkway is defined as the area between the edge of the roadway and the adjacent property
line excluding any area occupied by a sidewalk. Parkway shall also include any area within a
roadway which is not open to vehicular travel.
Passenger Loading Area. Passenger loading area is defined as areas designated for the on-site or
curbside loading and unloading of passenger vehicles.
Passenger Transit Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.5.5. (Passenger Transit Facility), a passenger transit
facility is defined as any facility that includes a structure accommodating publicly accessible passenger transport vehicles which regularly load and unload passengers along a fixed route.
A passenger transit facility include bus terminals, light rail stations and right-of-ways, subway
stations and right-of-ways, and passenger train stations and right-of-ways.
Pedestrian Access. Pedestrian access is defined as a means of approaching or entering a lot from the
public right-of-way as a pedestrian in accordance with Div. 4C.1. (Pedestrian Access) .
Pedestrian Access Package. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.1.1.C.1. (Pedestrian Access Packages), pedestrian
access package is defined as a combination of standards regulating pedestrian access from the
public sidewalk into and through a site.
Pedestrian Accessway. Pedestrian accessway is defined as a pedestrian path designed to
accommodate pedestrian access from the public right-of-way into a lot and to one or more
building entrances, in accordance with Div. 4C.1. (Pedestrian Access) .
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Pedestrian Amenity & Public Amenity-Facing Facade. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.6.C. (Pedestrian Amenity
& Public Amenity-Facing Facade), pedestrian amenity & public amenity-facing facade is defined
as the portions of any f rontage applicable facade pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.C.2. (Frontage Applicable
Facade) having no permanent structure (not including fences or walls) located between the
building facade and a pedestrian amenity space or public amenity space.
Pedestrian Amenity Allowance. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance), pedestrian
amenity allowance is defined as the width of pedestrian amenity space in the build-to zone that
can be counted toward the build-to width requirement.
Pedestrian Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2. (Pedestrian Amenity Space), pedestrian
amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors, located at ground-level,
is accessible to pedestrians and all tenants of a building, and meets all the standards in Sec.
2C.3.3.C.2. (Pedestrian Amenity Space) . See Div. 3C.1. (Build-To) for additional provisions related to
pedestrian amenity spaces.
Pedestrian Amenity-Facing Facade. See pedestrian amenity & public amenity-facing facade.
Pedestrian Passageway. Pedestrian passageway is defined as a publicly accessible pedestrian pathway
that provides pedestrian through access from the public right-of-way into and directly through a
lot, in accordance with Sec. 4C.1.1.C.3.a. (Pedestrian Passageway) .
Pedestrian Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.7. (Pedestrian Sign), pedestrian sign is defined as a small
sign attached perpendicular to the building facade that hangs from a bracket or support.
Pedestrian Walkway. Pedestrian walkway is defined as any public right-of-way designated as a
pedestrian walkway on the Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation
Element of the General Plan.
Perennial. Perennial is defined as a plant that lives more than two years, including woody species and
other plants that do not die back annually.
Perimeter Plane. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.3. (Perimeter Plane), perimeter plane is defined as an
imaginary vertical plane along the perimeter of a space used to measure the enclosure of a space. A perimeter plane shall be projected for a height of eight feet measured from the floor or ground
surface of the space.
Permanent Supportive Housing. Permanent supportive housing is defined by Div. 10. (Contracts),
Article 25. (Permanent Supportive Housing and Facilities Infrastructure Stabilization Ordinance), Sec. 10 51.1.(j). (Definitions) of the LAAC.
Permission Level. A permission level is a letter or symbol provided within a Use District table to
indicate how an individual use is permitted, as established in Div. 5A.3. (Use Permissions) .
Permit. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)), permit is
defined as any license, certificate, approval, or other entitlement for use granted, conditionally
granted, or denied by any public agency, which is subject to the provisions of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)) .
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Perpendicular Line. For the purposes of Sec. 4C.11.3.D.1. (Lots with Multiple Street Frontages),
perpendicular line is defined as, a straight line between the point on a sign face that is closest
to the street and the point where the line intersects the street lot line at a 90 degree angle, as
illustrated in Sec. 4C.11.3.D.1. (Lots with Multiple Street Frontages) .
Person. For the purposes of the Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), person shall have the same
meaning as that term is defined in Chapter II. (Licenses, Permits, Business Regulations), Sec. 21.7.2. (Definitions) of this Code. As the term is used in the remainder of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A)
person means, an individual, joint venture, joint stock company, partnership, association, club,
company, corporation, business trust, or organization and any other legal or natural person, or the manager, lessee, agent, servant, officer, or employee of any of them.
Personal Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.10. (Personal Services), personal services are defined as any
commercial use providing an in-person service directly to individuals seeking cosmetic services,
counseling services, document services, or servicing of consumer goods. Personal services
include: cosmetic services such as hair cutting and styling, nail salon, day spas, licensed massage
therapy, tattooing and piercing; counseling services, such as non-medical counseling, legal counseling, financial counseling, psychic counseling; document services such as printing, form
and application assistance, notary services, photo developing, visa and passport services; garment
services, such as garment tailoring and alterations, laundromat, dry cleaning; and consumer goods
repair services when occupying less than 3,000 square feet in area, such as electronics repair,
jewelry repair, shoe repair, appliance repair, furniture restoration, and bicycle repair. This use does
not include consumer goods repair services when occupying 3,000 square feet in area, or greater,
for such uses see Sec. 5D.8.1. (Machine Shop) . This use does not include maintenance and repair
of motor vehicles, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.1. (Motor Vehicle Services) .
Plant Cultivation. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.2. (Plant Cultivation), plant cultivation is defined as any
agricultural use that includes the growing of plants.
Plant Cultivation: Community Garden. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.2.A. (Plant Cultivation: Community
Garden), plant cultivation: community garden is defined as a plant cultivation use designed and
intended for multiple households or organizations to cultivate plants for domestic use. This use
may include shared facilities for storage and maintenance or services incidental to the agricultural
use such as an educational space.
Plant Cultivation: Farming. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.10.2.B. (Plant Cultivation: Farming), plant cultivation:
farming is defined as the cultivation of produce, ornamental plants, herbs, seeds, or fungi, for off site sale or distribution. This use includes, but is not limited to, truck gardening, indoor farming, or
vertical farming. For the sale of produce on-site beyond a farm stand pursuant to Sec. 5C.2.8.G.1.
(Supplemental Standards), see Sec. 5D.6.12.E. (Retail: Food & Beverage) .
Planting Area. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.6.4.C.2. (Planting Areas), planting area is defined as an area on a lot
designated and designed for plants.
Planting Hole. Planting hole is defined as a hollow space dug within a planting area to accommodate
the placement of a plant.
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Platform Agreement. For the purposes of Sec. 5C.3.2. (Home-Sharing Program), platform agreement
is defined as a signed agreement between a hosting platform and the City, which, among other
things, provides that the platform will collect and submit the Transient Occupancy Tax to the City
on behalf of hosts and persons listed for short-term rentals.
Pole Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.8. (Pole Sign), pole sign is defined as a freestanding sign that
is wholly independent of a building for support, permanently affixed to the ground using one or
more poles or posts.
Postmortem Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.11. (Postmortem Services), postmortem services are
defined as any establishment engaged in the provision of services involving the care, preparation,
or arrangement of human or animal remains, and conducting memorial services. Postmortem
service establishments include crematoriums, funeral homes, mortuaries, and pet crematoriums.
This use does not include a cemetery, for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.1. (Cemetery) .
Preliminary Parcel Map. Preliminary parcel map is defined as a map made for the purpose of showing
the design of a proposed subdivision creating four or fewer parcels, four or fewer condominiums,
or four or fewer units in a community apartment project or stock cooperative and prepared
pursuant to Sec. 11.4.2. (Preliminary Parcel Map Standards) .
Prepare. Whenever this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) directs an agency or official to prepare a document,
prepare means prepare directly or cause to be prepared.
Primary Residence. For the purposes of the Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), primary residence is
defined as the sole residence from which the host conducts home-sharing and in which the host
resides for more than six months of the calendar year. For all other purposes in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), primary residence is defined as a place of residence for an individual or group of
individuals to live for more than six months out of the year.
Primary Roof Form. Primary roof form is defined as the form of the roof which covers at least 80
percent of the building footprint.
Primary Street. See primary street lot line.
Primary Street Lot Line. Primary street lot line is defined as a lot line that has been designated as the
primary street lot line per Sec. 14.2.12.C.1. (Primary Street Lot Line) .
Primary Use. For the purposes of Article 5. (Use), primary use is defined as the principal or predominant
use of a lot relative to any other uses sharing the same lot as determined by the use that occupies
the most foor areal on a lot, or the use that covers the most lot area when concerning outdoor
uses.
Principal Material Coverage. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.10.1. (Principal Material Coverage), principal material
coverage is defined as the building products used as the primary exterior wall finish materials of
the exterior building facade.
Principal Structure. Principal structure is defined as any structure that is not an accessory structure.
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Private Club. Private club is defined as any facility organized solely for the promotion of some
common interest and which is accessible to club members and their guests only. Private club
includes business, fraternal, political, and social organizations.
Private Outdoor Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4. (Private Outdoor Amenity Space), private
outdoor amenity space is defined as a type of amenity space that is uncovered or unenclosed
and is available to an assigned unit or tenant space, and meets all the standards in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.4.
(Private Outdoor Amenity Space) .
Private Road Easement. Private road easement is defined as a parcel of land not dedicated as a public
street, over which a private easement for road purposes is proposed to be, or has been, granted
to the owners of property contiguous or adjacent to the road, that intersects or connects with
a public street or a private street. The instrument creating such easement shall be, or shall have
been, duly recorded with the Los Angeles County Recorder.
Private Street. Private street is defined as a private road easement as defined herein which has been
determined by the Advisory Agency or the Director to be adequate for access and for the purposes
set forth in Article 10. (Streets & Parks), or Article 11. (Division of Land) of this Zoning Code (Chapter
1A).
Problem Areas. Problem areas are defined as those portions of the City determined by resolution
of the Board of Public Works to be actually or potentially dangerous by reason of geological conditions, being subject to inundation or overflow by storm water, or because of any other potentially dangerous condition, including areas subject to rapid spread of fire.
Producing Zone (Oil Drilling Districts). Producing zone (Oil Drilling Districts) is defined as a reservoir
or series of reservoirs of sufficient thickness and productivity of hydrocarbons as to form an
economic source of supply and which is segregated from other reservoirs, or series of reservoirs,
by natural boundaries or barriers to such an extent as to make its separate development either economically or mechanically desirable in accordance with good oil field practice.
Project. As the term is used in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) project is defined by Sec. 14.2.15.A.
(Project) . The definition for project is modified for the purposes of the following Sections:
- For the purposes of Sec. 13B.11.1. (Environmental Review Procedures), project is defined by the
California Public Resources Code, Sec. 21065. and CEQA Guidelines, Sec. 15378 . 2. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), see Sec. 13B.8.1.C. (Definitions) or Sec. 8.2.6.B.1. (Definition of Project) .
For the purposes of Sec. 8.2.2. (Community Plan Implementation Overlay (CPIO)) see Sec. 8.2.2.B.1. (Definition of Project) .
For the purposes of Sec. 8.2.3. (Sign District (SN)) see Sec. 8.2.3.B.1. (Definition of Project) .
For the purposes of Sec. 8.2.5. (Community Design Overlay (CDO)) see Sec. 8.2.5.B.1. (Definition of Project) .
For the purposes of Sec. 8.2.7. (Conservation Districts (CD)) see Sec. 8.2.7.B.1. (Definition of
Project) .
- For the purposes of Sec. 8.2.8. (Transportation Communication Network District (TCN)) see Sec. 8.2.8.B.1. (Definition of Project) .
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Project Activities. See project activity.
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Project Activity. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15. (Project Activities), project activity is defined as the type of
work composing a project. A project may be composed of one or more project activity.
Project Adjustment. For the purposes of review of a project for compliance with a Specifc Plani,
project adjustment is defined as a decision on a project by the Director granting a minor adjustment from certain Specifc Plani regulations, subject to the limitations specified by Div. 13B.4. (Specific Plan Implementation) .
Project Compliance. For the purposes of review of a project for compliance with a Specifc Plani,
project compliance is defined as a decision by the Director that a project complies with the
regulations of the applicable Specifc Plani, either as submitted, or with conditions imposed to
achieve compliance.
Project Exception. For the purposes of review of a project for compliance with a Specifc Plani, project
exception is defined as a decision on a project by the Area Planning Commission granting relief
from applicable Specifc Plani regulations.
Project Site. Project site is defined as the lot on which a project is located.
Projecting Balcony. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.7.1.D. (Projecting Balcony), projecting balcony is defined as
an unenclosed occupiable platform, located at an elevation above the ground story, that is fixed
to or integrated with an exterior building facade and projects beyond the foor areal of the story
immediately below. Balconies include protective barriers such as railings or parapets and may be
covered or uncovered.
Projecting Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.9. (Projecting Sign), projecting sign is defined as a sign
attached approximately perpendicular to the building facade that does not meet the standards for
a pedestrian sign.
Projection. For the purposes of signs, projection is defined as the distance by which a sign extends
beyond the building face. See Div. 4C.11. (Signs) .
Proposed Use. For the purposes of Article 5. (Use), proposed use is defined as any project activity
involving the establishment of a new use, the modification of an existing use, expansion of foor l
area dedicated to an existing use, or relocation of an existing use.
Protected Unit. A protected unit includes a dwelling unit that meets any of the following criteria:
A dwelling unit that is or was subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to lower income households or very low income households within the past five years,
A dwelling unit that is or was subject to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance, pursuant to Chapter
XV. (Rent Stabilization Ordinance) of this Code, or any other form of rent or price control through a public entity’s valid exercise of its police power within the past five years;
- A dwelling unit that is or was rented by a lower income households or very low income households within the past five years,
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- A dwelling unit that was withdrawn from rent or lease in accordance with the Ellis Act, pursuant
to California Government Code, Chapter 12.75 (Residential Real Property), Sec. 7060-7060.7,
within the past 10 years.
Protected Vegetation. Protected vegetation is defined as any protected tree or shrub as defined in
Chapter IV. (Public Welfare), Sec. 46.01. (Definition) of this Code.
Protective Barrier. Protective barrier is defined as a building component or assembly located at, or
near, the open sides of elevated floor surfaces, that is designed to reduce the risk of fall from the
occupiable space. Protective barrier includes guardrails, railings, and parapets.
Public & Institutional Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.3. (Public & Institutional Uses), public & institutional uses
are defined as uses dedicated to serving the public through the provision of government services,
utilities, healthcare, education, and culture.
Public Access Easement. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.17. (Public Access Easements), public access easement
is an easement, established between a lot owner or owners and the City of Los Angeles, as found on the Public Access Easement Map (Sec. 1.5.11.), affecting a lot or lots for the purpose of ensuring
public access to the portions of the lot covered by the easement.
Public Agency. Public Agency is defined pursuant to California Government Code Sec. 20056 .
Public Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space), public amenity space is
defined as a type of amenity space that is outdoors and, although privately owned, is open to the
public, and meets all the standards in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.3. (Public Amenity Space) .
Public Amenity-Facing Facade. See pedestrian amenity & public amenity-facing facade.
Public Art Installation. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.1.E.3.d. (Public Art Installation), public art installation
is defined as a facility, amenity or project that does not contain any commercial message and which is either an "approved public arts project" as defined by Sec. 19.85.4. (Direct Expenditure
on Approved Public Arts Projects) of the LAAC or approved pursuant to Chapter IX. (Building
Regulations), Sec. 91.107.4.6. (Arts Development Fee) of this Code.
Public Facility. Public facility is defined as any facility, including, but not limited to, buildings, property,
recreation areas, and roads, which are owned, leased, or otherwise operated, or funded by a
governmental body or public entity. See Sec. 9.3.4.C.7. (Civic Facility Incentive Area) .
Public Land Project. A public land project is defined as a project containing dwelling units located on
lots owned by a public agency.
Public Project. For the purposes of Div. 13B.9. (Coastal Development), public project is defined as any
development initiated by the Department of Public Works or any of its bureaus, any development
initiated by any other department or agency of the City, and any development initiated or to be
carried out by any other governmental agency which is required to obtain a local government
permit. Public project shall not include any development by any department or agency of the
City or any other governmental entity which otherwise requires action by or approval of the City Planning Commission, Area Planning Commission or the Office of Zoning Administration, or any
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development by any department or agency of the City or any other government entity for which a
permit from the Department of Building and Safety is required. Public project shall also not include any development on tidelands, submerged lands, or on public trust lands, whether filled or unfilled. (Definition Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.).
Public Right-of-Way. Public right-of-way is defined as the area on, below, or above any surface
owned by, or under the control of the City for the purpose of providing public access for a mode
of transportation or mobility. Public right-of-way includes roadway, alley, median, sidewalk,
parkway, bicycle path, and recreational trail.
Public Safety Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.7. (Public Safety Facility), public safety facility is defined
as any government facility that provides public safety services. Public safety facility includes fire
stations and police stations.
Public Sidewalk. Public sidewalk is defined as any sidewalk within a public right-of-way.
Public Way. Public way is defined as a street, alley, or other parcel of land leading to a street or public
right-of-way, that has been deeded, dedicated, or otherwise permanently appropriated to the
public, for public use, that has a clear width and height of not less than 10 feet. Public way includes
any street, channel, viaduct, subway, tunnel, bridge, easement, public right-of-way, or other way,
in which a public agency or the public has a right of use.
Publicly Accessible. Publicly accessible is defined as the ability of the public to access a facility.
Q
Qualified Developer. Qualified developer is defined pursuant to California Government Code Sec.
65913.16(b)(9)(A-C) exclusive of (D), and shall also include a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) identified on the United States Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund list of Certified CDFIs at the time of project filing, provided the CDFI maintains a non-profit status
pursuant to United States Internal Revenue Code Sec. 501(c)(3) .
Qualified Nonprofit Housing Corporation. Qualified nonprofit housing corporation is defined
pursuant to Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code that has received a welfare exemption
under Sec. 214.15 of the Revenue and Taxation Code for properties intended to be sold to low income families who participate in a special no-interest loan program.
Qualified Permanent Supportive Housing Project. Qualified permanent supportive housing project is
defined as a use where all dwelling units meet the standards of Sec. 9.4.1. (Permanent Supportive
Housing Incentive Program) .
Quasi-Judicial Approval. Quasi-judicial approval is defined as an action that applies rules to
specific facts and is subject to procedural due process principles and includes but is not limited to the approvals provided for in Div. 13B.2. (Quasi-Judicial Review), Div. 13B.4. (Specific Plan
Implementation), and Div. 13B.5. (Quasi-Judicial Relief) .
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Queuing. Queuing is defined as the channeling of vehicle traffic into lanes to accommodate the
temporary stopping of two or more vehicles that are waiting to enter into an area or obtain goods
or services from a drive-through facility.
Queuing Depth. 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) .
Queuing Space. Queuing space is defined as the space within a drive-through lane needed to
accommodate the temporary stopping of a single vehicle.
R
Rear Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.4. (Rear Lot Line), rear lot line is defined as a lot line that does
not abut a street or alley right-of-way and is opposite and most distant from a primary street lot
line, and meets the criteria pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.4. (Rear Lot Line) .
Rear Yard. See Sec. 14.2.16.B.4. (Rear Yard) .
Reasonable Accommodation. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.5.5. (Reasonable Accommodation),
reasonable accommodation is defined as providing an individual with a disability or developers of housing for an individual with a disability, flexibility in the application of land use and zoning regulations or policies (including the modification or waiver of certain requirements), when it is
necessary to eliminate barriers to housing opportunities.
Reconstruction. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), reconstruction is defined as
the act or process of reproducing by new construction the exact form, features and details of
a vanished building, portion of a building, structure, landscape, natural feature, or object as it appeared at a specific period of time, on its original or a substitute lot.
Recorded Parcel Map. Recorded parcel map is defined as a parcel map that has been recorded in
accordance with Sec. 11.4.5. (Parcel Map) .
Recreational Vehicle. Recreational vehicle is defined pursuant to California Health and Safety Code,
Recyclable Materials. Recyclable materials are defined as items or materials to be recycled or reused,
including yard waste, paper, plastic, glass, metal, newspaper, and cardboard.
Recycling Area. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.12.7. (Recycling Areas), recycling area is defined as an outdoor
enclosure or a room within a building which is designated for the collection of recyclable materials
generated by the use(s) on a lot.
Recycling Center. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.10.3. (Annual Inspection Monitoring (Type 1)), recycling center
is defined as any recycling collection or buyback site, recycling sorting facility, or other recycling
oriented site which does not do any processing other than mechanical compaction to reduce the
volume of recyclable containers for economy of storage.
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Recycling Chute. Recycling chute is defined as any vertical smooth shaft used to convey recyclable
materials from the upper floors of a building to a recyclable storage bin or room at the bottom end
of the chute.
Recycling Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.4. (Recycling Facility), recycling facility is defined as any use
that includes the recovery and processing of recyclable or reusable materials.
Recycling Facility: Collection. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.4.A. (Recycling Facility: Collection), recycling
facility: collection is defined as any recycling facility use where recyclable materials including, but
not limited to, paper, plastic, glass, metal, newspaper, or cardboard, are deposited or redeemed for monetary value. This use includes baling or crushing operations for the purposes of efficient
storage and transfer, but shall not include sorting or processing activities other than for temporary
storage purposes. This use includes reverse vending machines and buyback centers.
Recycling Facility: Sorting & Processing. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.4.B. (Recycling Facility: Sorting &
Processing), recycling facility: sorting & processing is defined as any recycling facility use that accepts recyclable materials for on-site sorting or processing. For the purpose of this definition,
processing shall mean the process of changing the physical characteristics of a recyclable material,
including the shredding, smelting, grinding and crushing of cans, bottles, and other materials,
other than for temporary storage purposes. This use includes the transfer and processing of scrap
metals.
Recycling Receptacle. Recycling receptacle is defined as a container which is suitable for the
collection of recyclable materials.
Redevelopment Plan Amendment. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code,
Redevelopment plan amendment is defined as an amendment to a Redevelopment Plan adopted by the City Council by ordinance after the effective date of Ordinance No. 186,325 .
Redevelopment Plan Area. See redevelopment project area.
Redevelopment Plan Project. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code, redevelopment
plan project is defined as any proposed development activity within a redevelopment project
area with an unexpired Redevelopment Plan that includes the issuance of a building, grading,
demolition, sign or change of use permit. A redevelopment plan project shall not include
activity that consists solely of interior remodeling, interior rehabilitation or interior repair
work. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following types of projects shall be considered a
redevelopment plan project: (i) development activity involving an Historic Resource, including any interior remodeling, interior rehabilitation, or interior repair work that affects the exterior; and/or
(ii) development activity involving a Residential Hotel/Single Room Occupancy Hotel (SRO), vacant
dwelling unit, or a dwelling unit housing lower income households in the City Center Project Area
and the Central Industrial Project Area, including any interior remodeling, interior rehabilitation or
interior repair work that may result in the loss of a dwelling unit.
Redevelopment Plan Project Adjustment. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code,
redevelopment plan project adjustment is defined as a “minor variation” or “variation” as these
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terms are used in each Redevelopment Plan and is a decision by the Director that a redevelopment
plan project substantially complies with the relevant redevelopment regulations except for a
minor deviation therefrom, either as submitted or with conditions imposed to achieve substantial
compliance with the applicable redevelopment regulations.
Redevelopment Plan Project Administrative Review. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this
Code, redevelopment plan project administrative review is defined as the issuance of a ministerial
approval by the Director for a redevelopment plan project that complies with the applicable
redevelopment regulations.
Redevelopment Plan Project Compliance. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this
Code, redevelopment plan project compliance is defined as a decision by the Director that a
redevelopment plan project complies with the applicable redevelopment regulations, either as
submitted or with conditions imposed to achieve compliance with the redevelopment regulations.
Redevelopment Project Area. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code, redevelopment
project area is defined as the area included within the specific geographic boundaries identified as
a project area in a Redevelopment Plan and shall be referred to as “Redevelopment Plan Area.”
Redevelopment Regulations. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code, redevelopment
regulations are defined as all the land use provisions of the Redevelopment Plans and design for
development guidelines adopted pursuant to such Redevelopment Plans that govern land use or
development that were transferred to the City pursuant to California Health and Safety Code, Sec.
34173(i) .
Registered Civil Engineer. Registered civil engineer is defined as a civil engineer licensed and
registered by the State of California.
Rehabilitation. Pursuant to Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), rehabilitation is defined as the act or
process of returning a property to a state of utility, through repair or alteration, which makes possible an efficient contemporary use while preserving those portions or features of the property which are significant to its historical, architectural and cultural values.
Religious Institution. Religious institution is defined pursuant to California Government Code Sec.
65913.16(b)(10) .
Renovation. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.9. (Renovation), renovation is defined as a modification to the
interior of any building or structure, including the basement, that does not expand the building or
structure. Renovation includes interior remodels or tenant improvements.
Rental Unit. For the purposes of Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), rental unit is defined as a
dwelling unit or residential structure, or portion thereof. For all other purposes in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) rental unit is defined as a dwelling unit available for rent.
Renter. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), renter is defined as any person,
association, partnership, firm, corporation, or public entity which has rented or leased a dwelling
unit or other structure within an HPOZ for a continuous time period of at least three years. The
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“renter” also refers to an appointed representative of an association, partnership, firm, corporation, or public entity which is a renter. See Sec. 13B.8.1.C. (Definitions) .
Replace. Replace is defined as provided in California Government Code Sec. 65915(c)(3)(B) and (C) .
Research & Development. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.3. (Research & Development), research &
development is defined as any light industrial use requiring a wet laboratory where chemicals,
drugs, or other material or biological matter are handled in liquid solutions or volatile phases,
requiring direct ventilation, and specialized piped utilities. Research & development does not include uses requiring a dry laboratory, for these uses see Sec. 5D.6.9. (Office) .
Resident. Resident is defined as one who legally resides at the subject building or lot.
Residential. See residential use.
Residential Amenity Space. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.3.2. (Residential Amenity Space), residential amenity
space is defined as an area which is designed and intended to be used by occupants of dwelling
units for recreational, domestic, or vocational purposes.
Residential Building. Residential building is defined as a building, or portion of a building, designed or
used for human habitation.
Residential Care Facility for Elderly. Residential care facility for elderly is defined pursuant to California
Code of Regulations, Title 22. (Social Security), Div. 6. (Licensing of Community Care Facilities), Sec. 87101 (r)(5) (Definitions) .
Residential Conversion Project. Residential conversion project is defined as an existing apartment
house, apartment hotel, hotel, or multiple dwellings used exclusively for residential purposes,
proposed for conversion to a condominium, stock cooperative, or community apartment project
to be used exclusively for residential purposes through approval of a tract map or parcel map. For purposes of this definition, the term existing means that the building was constructed prior to 1945
or, where built after 1945, a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued for the building prior to the
time of map application.
Residential Hotel/Single Room Occupancy Hotel. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this
Code, residential hotel/single room occupancy hotel is defined as the meaning ascribed thereto
in the Development Guidelines and Controls for Residential Hotels in the City Center and Central
Industrial redevelopment project areas, adopted by the former CRA on June 15, 2006, and/or the
Residential Hotel Ordinance ( Ordinance No. 179,868 ) of the City of Los Angeles.
Residential Project. Residential project is defined as a project containing any number of dwelling units.
Residential to Commercial/Industrial Conversion Project. Residential to commercial/industrial
conversion project is defined as an existing hotel or multiple dwellings used exclusively for
residential purposes proposed for conversion to a condominium or stock cooperative which is
to be used exclusively for commercial or industrial purposes through approval of a tract map or parcel map. For purposes of this definition, the term existing means that the building was
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constructed prior to 1945 or, where built after 1945, a Certificate of Occupancy was issued for the
building prior to the time of map application.
Residential Use. A residential use is any use listed and defined in Div. 5D.2. (Residential Uses) .
Restoration. For the purposes of Div. 13B.8. (Historic Preservation), restoration is defined as the act or
process of accurately recovering the form, features and details of a property as it appeared at a
particular period of time by means of the removal of later work or by the replacement of missing
earlier work.
Restaurant. An eating & drinking establishment that provides a dining environment where customers
are seated and served made-to-order meals prepared in a full-service kitchen on-site.
Restricted Affordable Unit. Restricted affordable unit is defined as a dwelling unit for which rental
amounts or mortgage amounts are restricted so as to be affordable to and occupied by an
acutely low income household, extremely low income household, very low income household, low income household, or moderate income household, as verified by the Los Angeles Housing
Department.
Retail. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12. (Retail), retail is defined as a commercial use involved in the sale or
dispensing of consumer goods to the general public, including any associated indoor or outdoor
display and point of sales.
Retail: Alcohol. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.B. (Retail: Alcohol), retail: alcohol is defined as a retail use
involving the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption and are licensed or seeking a license to sell or otherwise dispense alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption, as defined by the California State Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (ABC) . This use does not include the
on-site consumption of alcoholic beverages, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.3.B. (Eating & Drinking:
Alcohol Service) .
Retail: Farmers' Market, Certified. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.C. (Retail: Farmers' Market, Certified),
retail: farmers' market, certified is defined as a retail use involved in the sale or dispensing of agricultural products by producers or certified producers directly to consumers or to individuals,
organizations, or entities that subsequently sell or distribute the products directly to end users and is certified by the Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner.
Retail: Firearms. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.D. (Retail: Firearms), retail: firearms is defined as a retail use
where firearms, ammunition, or related accessories are sold.
Retail: Food & Beverage. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.E. (Retail: Food & Beverage), retail: food & beverage
is defined as a retail use primarily involved in the retail sale of food and beverages for off-site
consumption. Retail: food & beverage includes grocery stores, produce markets, seafood and
meat markets, bakeries, delis, and on-site seating areas for dining accessory to the primary retail
use. This use does not include alcoholic beverage sales; for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.12.B. (Retail:
Alcohol) .
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Retail: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.A. (Retail: General), retail: general is defined as any retail
use primarily involved in the sale or rental of new or used consumer goods to the general public.
Retail: general includes but is not limited to, the sale or rental of household goods, clothing,
books, toys, art supplies, pet supplies, house plants, medicine, consumer electronics, appliances,
hardware, building supplies, mattresses, and furniture. This use does not include the sale or rental
of motor vehicles, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.3. (Motor Vehicle Sales & Rental) .
Retail: Large Format. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.F. (Retail: Large Format), retail: large format is defined
as any retail use with a non-residential tenant size of 100,000 square feet or greater. This use may
include but is not limited to any of the following types of retail when occupying a non-residential
tenant size of 100,000 square feet or greater: superstore, department store, wholesale club,
furniture store, and home improvement store. This use does not include any retail use with a non residential tenant size of less than 100,000 square feet, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.12.A. (Retail:
General) .
Retail: Merchant Market. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.G. (Retail: Merchant Market), retail: merchant market
is defined as a retail use that includes ten or more tenants or vendors within a shared facility with
common entrances and walkways, where goods, products, groceries, and prepared food are offered or displayed for sale or exchange, and may include on-site seating areas for dining as
incidental to the market use.
Retail: Pet Shop. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.H. (Pet Shop), retail: pet shop is defined as a retail use
possessing a pet shop permit issued by the Department of Animal Services where domestic animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds, fish, amphibians, and small reptiles are kept and offered for commercial sale, for hire, or adoption. This use does not include uses where the
overnight keeping of dogs or cats exceeds 30 percent of the foor areal of a facility, for such uses
see Sec. 5D.6.1.B. (Animal Services: Kennel) . This use does not include the breeding and raising of
animals, for such uses see Sec. 5D.10.1.G. (Animal Keeping: Small Animals) .
Retail: Seasonal Market. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.I. (Seasonal Market), retail: seasonal market is defined
as a retail use involving the seasonal outdoor retail sale of ornamental holiday decor, primarily
ornamental pumpkins and Christmas trees.
Retail: Smoke & Vape Shop. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.12.J. (Smoke & Vape Shop), retail: smoke & vape
shop is defined as a retail use primarily involving the sale of tobacco products, substances
intended for smoking, or smoking accessories, including but not limited to cigars, pipes, vaporizing
devices, or other smoking paraphernalia. The use may include an enclosed smokers’ lounge that is
solely dedicated to smoking tobacco products. This use does not include medicinal or recreational
cannabis establishments, for such uses see the Department of Cannabis Regulation .
Retaining Wall. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.9.2. (Retaining Walls), retaining wall is defined as a freestanding
continuous structure, as viewed from the top, intended to support earth, which is not attached to
a building.
Reverse Vending Machine. Reverse vending machine is defined as an automated mechanical device
which accepts one or more types of empty beverage containers including aluminum cans, glass
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and plastic bottles, and which issues a cash refund or a redeemable credit slip with a value not
less than the container’s redemption value, as determined by the State of California. A reverse
vending machine may sort and process containers mechanically, provided that the entire process
is enclosed within the machine. See Sec. 5D.9.4.A. (Collection) .
Reviewing Agency. Reviewing agency is defined as the agency or official charged with reviewing
an application for an approval under this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) which includes the Zoning
Administrator, the Director of Planning, or the Department of City Planning.
Revised Tentative Tract Map. Revised tentative tract map is defined as a tract map for which a
tentative tract map has been previously approved which involves a revised arrangement of the streets, alleys, easements, or lots within property or a modification of the boundary of the property
pursuant to Article 11. (Division of Land) .
Right-of-way. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.) right-of-way is defined as the
dedicated area that includes roadways, medians, and/or sidewalks. For the remainder of this
Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) see public right-of-way.
Roadway. Roadway is defined as that portion of a public right-of-way for a street or alley used for, or
intended to accommodate, the movement of vehicles, including provided or planned on-street
bike lanes.
Roof Form. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.11.1. (Roof Form), roof form is defined as the shape of the external
upper covering of a building, including the frame for supporting the roofing.
Roof Projection. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.b. (Roof Projection), roof projections are defined as roof
elements that overhang or cantilever beyond the building footprint and do not include posts or
columns. Types of roof projections include, but are not limited to: eaves, roof overhangs, gutters,
awnings, or canopies.
Roof Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.10. (Roof Sign), a roof sign is defined as a sign erected on a roof
of a building.
Roof Sign: Open Panel. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.11. (Roof Sign: Open Panel), a roof sign: open panel
is defined as a sign erected on a roof of a building consisting of channel letters, graphic segments, open lighting elements, or other open forms affixed to a non-solid panel sign support structure.
Roof Structure. A roof structure is defined as the structure forming the upper covering of a building.
Roof-Mounted Equipment. Roof-mounted equipment is defined as all mechanical equipment or utility
equipment located on a roof, with the exception of solar panels and their required appurtenances.
See Sec. 4C.12.1. (Roof-Mounted Equipment) .
Roofline Cornice. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.5.C.4. (Roofline Cornice), a roofline cornice is defined as a
continuous molded projection that crowns a wall, often as part of a parapet.
Rooftop Planting Area. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.6.4.C.2.b. (Rooftop Planting Area Standards), rooftop
planting areas are defined as areas where plants are provided on or over a built structure, including
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but not limited to, a roof, a bridge, a balcony or a parking structure, and complies with all of the
standards in Sec. 4C.6.4.C.2.b. (Rooftop Planting Area Standards) .
Root Ball. Root ball is defined as the intact ball of earth or growing medium containing the roots of a
nursery plant.
Root Collar. A root collar is defined as the line of junction between the root of a plant and its stem or
trunk.
Root Flare. A root flare is defined as the area at the base of the plant’s stem or trunk where the stem
or trunk broadens to form roots; the area of transition between the root system and the stem or
trunk.
Root Mass. Root mass is defined as a plant's overall amount of root growth.
S
Safety Barrier. For the purposes of vertical encroachments pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.e. (Safety
Barriers), a safety barrier is defined as a vertical barriers that is 45 inches in height or less and
required for safety and protection by Chapter IX. (Building Regulations) of this Code to protect
occupants from falling from walking surfaces including but not limited to parapets, railings, or
banisters. For the purposes of the remainder of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), a safety barrier is defined as anything put in place to prevent people from moving easily from one place to another
for the purpose of mitigating risk including fences, walls, parapets, and railings.
Sales Floor Area. Sales floor area is defined as the interior foor areal of a retail use devoted to the retail
sale of merchandise where customers can view, select, and carry merchandise from an inventory display to the point of sale. Areas not included in sales floor area include, showrooms, restrooms,
ofcefi space, storage areas, open-air retail areas.
Salvage Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.3. (Salvage Yard), a salvage yard is defined as any heavy industrial
use having any portion of the use located outdoors where a junk dealer or automobile dismantler
operates, or where partially dismantled, obsolete, or wrecked automobiles are stored. This use
does not include motor vehicle storage, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.5. (Storage, Outdoor) .
School. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.9. (School), school is defined as an institution of academic learning and
social development that provides facilities for teaching and instruction to accommodate a student
body such as preschool, K-12, post-secondary education, and associated athletic and recreational
facilities. This use does not include avocational, recreational, or other educational or instruction based uses, for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.6. (Instructional Services) . This use does not include a
campus auditorium or stadium facilities with a seating capacity greater than 3,000 seats, for such
uses see Sec. 5D.4.1. (Amphitheater or Stadium) .
School: K-12. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.9.B. (School: K-12), school: K-12 is defined as an institution of
learning which offers instruction in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade, and associated
recreation and athletic facilities serving its students.
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School: Post-Secondary. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.9.C. (School: Post-Secondary), school: post-secondary
is defined as an institution offering a formal educational program beyond K-12, including programs
whose intent is academic, vocational, or continuing professional education. School: post secondary includes college, technical school, trade school, and university.
School: Preschool/Daycare. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.9.A. (School: Preschool/Daycare), school:
preschool/daycare is defined as a facility providing care, supervision, and educational services
to children during the day. A school: preschool/daycare includes all forms of early childhood
education, daycare, and after school supervision. This use does not include in-home child care, for
such uses see Sec. 5D.2.2.A. (Household Business: Family Child Care) .
Screening. Screening is defined as an arrangement of structures, vegetation, or site elements that are
intended to block or obscure views into a lot or structure. See Div. 4C.8. (Screening) .
Screening Plants. Screening plants are defined as plants that are arranged for the purposes of
obscuring views into a lot or structure.
Screening Structure. A screening structure is defined as a structure obstructing visibility from outside
an enclosed area to another space, object, or structure.
Sea. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.1. (Coastal Development Permit (Pre-Certification)) sea is defined
as the Pacific Ocean and all harbors, bays, channels, canals, estuaries, salt marshes, sloughs and other areas subject to tidal action through any connection with the Pacific Ocean, excluding nonestuarine rivers, streams, tributaries, creeks, and flood control and drainage channels.
Sea Level Rise Area. Sea level rise area is defined as an area of the coast that is vulnerable to five
feet of sea level rise, as determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
the Ocean Protection Council, the United States Geological Survey, the University of California,
and as accepted for use by the Director of Planning, or as determined by a local coastal hazards
vulnerability assessment.
Senior Care Facility. Senior care facility is defined as any assisted living, senior independent living, or
skilled nursing home for senior citizens. See Sec. 9.4.3. (Senior Care Facilities Incentive Program) .
Senior Citizen. Senior citizen is defined as individuals who are at least 62 years of age, except that for
projects of at least 35 units, a threshold of 55 years of age may be used, provided all applicable
City, state, and federal regulations are met.
Senior Citizen Housing Development. Senior citizen housing development is defined as a
development that has at least 35 dwelling units, as defined in California Civil Code Sec. 51.3 and
Sec. 51.12, or a mobile home park that limits residency based on age requirements for housing for
older persons pursuant to California Civil Code Sec. 798.76 or Sec. 799.5 .
Sensitive Use. Unless otherwise provided in this Code or City guidelines for a specific purpose,
sensitive use is defined as any permitted use in the residential use group, a hospital use, a school
use, or any use in the open space & recreation use group shall be considered a sensitive use.
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Service Floor Area. Service floor area is defined as all indoor foor areal within an eating & drinking use
where the customer can be served, including an indoor dining or lounge area, bar-top and bar
seating area, service counter, customer waiting area, customer restrooms, and indoor paths of
travel accessible to customers.
Service Road. A service road is defined as that part of a major or secondary highway, containing a
roadway that affords access to abutting property, but is adjacent and approximately parallel to, and
separated from the principal roadway.
Sexually Oriented Business. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.13. (Sexually Oriented Business), sexually oriented
business is defined as any commercial use involving the retail sale, rental or exhibition, of any
goods or services that are characterized by an emphasis on the exposure or display of specifed i
sexual activities or specifed anatomical partsi . Each sexually oriented business use shall constitute
a separate sexually oriented business, even if operated in conjunction with another sexually
oriented business at the same establishment, for the intent of meeting applicable use standards.
Sexually Oriented Business: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.13.A. (Sexually Oriented Business: General),
sexually oriented business: general is defined as any sexually oriented business use, other than a
sexually oriented business: sexual encounter establishment. This use includes but is not limited to
adult arcades, adult bookstores, adult cabaret theaters, adult motion picture theaters, or striptease
venues.
Sexually Oriented Business: Sexual Encounter. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.6.13.B. (Sexually Oriented
Business: Sexual Encounter), sexually oriented business: sexual encounter is defined as any sexually oriented business use, other than lodging offering public accommodations, which, for any
form of consideration, provides a place where two or more persons may congregate, associate
or consort in connection with specifed sexual activitiesi or the exposure of specifed anatomical i
parts. This use does not include a use where a medical practitioner, psychologist, psychiatrist, or
similar professional licensed by the State of California engages in sexual therapy, for such uses see
Sec. 5D.6.8. (Medical Clinic) .
Shared Equity Project. Shared equity project is defined as a project containing dwelling units that is
located on land owned by a public agency, Community Land Trust, as defined in the California
Revenue and Taxation Code Sec. 402.1(a)(11)(C)(ii), or a Limited-equity Housing Cooperative or Workforce Housing Cooperative Trust, as defined in California Civil Code Sec. 817, except that dwelling units, in addition to being sold or rented to income qualified persons, may also be held by the non-profit corporation for the purpose of making dwelling units for lower income households financially stable. The land must be owned by the public agency, Community Land Trust, Limitedequity Housing Cooperative, or Workforce Housing Cooperative Trust at the time of project filing
through the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
Shared Housing Building. A residential or mixed-use structure, with five or more shared housing units
and one or more common kitchens and dining areas designed for permanent residence of more than 30 days by its tenants as defined in California Government Code Sec. 65915(o)(7)(A) .
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Shared Housing Unit. One or more habitable rooms, not within another dwelling unit, that includes
a bathroom, sink, refrigerator, and microwave, and is used for permanent residence in a shared housing building, and is as further defined in Government Code Sec. 65915(o)(7)(B) . A shared housing unit shall comply with the definition of “efficiency dwelling unit” for purposes of zoning
and allowable density.
Sheltered. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.2.A.3. (Sheltered) a space or structure is considered sheltered if no
portion of its area is open to the sky.
Sheltering Structure. Sheltering structure is defined as any structure, including entry features,
canopies, or roofs, that creates a covered, unenclosed space.
Shopfront Cornice. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.5.C.3. (Shopfront Cornice), shopfront cornice is defined as
a continuous molded projection located above a series of display windows on the ground story
facade.
Shopping Cart. A shopping cart is defined as a basket of any size, mounted on wheels, rollers or a
similar device, including parts, provided by a retail establishment for the purpose of transporting
groceries or merchandise of any kind within a retail establishment or associated parking area.
Shopping Cart Containment Plan. Shopping cart containment plan is defined as a plan sheet that
includes a specific written plan with a corresponding site plan that identifies areas of shopping cart
containment to prevent customers from removing shopping carts from the premises. See Sec.
4C.12.8. (Shopping Cart Containment) .
Shopping Cart Corral. Shopping cart corral is defined as a stable structure that provides an enclosure
for the collection of shopping carts on a lot.
Shoreline Project. Shoreline project is defined as any development in streams, wetlands, and other
waters of the United States, and may include depositing of fill and dredged material, jetties,
marinas, and piers.
Short-Term Rental. For the purposes of the Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), short-term rental is
defined as a rental unit, rented in whole or in part, to any person(s) for use of 30 consecutive days
or less. Rental units within City-approved lodging uses shall not be considered a short-term rental.
Showroom Area. Showroom area is defined as the interior foor areal of a retail use devoted to the
display of heavy/large goods, such as furniture, mattresses, major household appliances, carpet,
cars, or wholesale fabric where the assistance of a sales associate, special order, or delivery of
goods is required.
Shrub. Shrub is defined as a small to medium sized perennial woody plant. Unlike herbaceous plants,
shrubs have persistent woody stems above the ground. They are distinguished from trees by their
multiple stems and shorter height and for purposes of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) are less than
15 feet.
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Side Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.5. (Side Lot Line), side lot line is defined as any lot line not
determined to be a primary street lot line, side street lot line, rear lot line, alley lot line, or special
lot line.
Side Street Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.2. (Side Street Lot Line), side street lot line is defined as
a lot line separating a lot from a side street right-of-way. Any street lot line not determined to be a
primary street lot line is considered a side street lot line.
Side Street Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.B.3. (Side Street Yard), side street yard is defined as the area
between a side street lot line and an imaginary line running parallel to the side street lot line. The
imaginary line shall be drawn 15 feet back from the portion of the side street lot line-facing facade
nearest to the side street lot line, measured perpendicularly to the lot line.
Side Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.B.5. (Side Yard), side yard is defined as the portions of a lot between
a side lot line and a principal structure. All portions of a lot that do not meet the yard designation
criteria for any other yard shall be designated as a side yard.
Sidewalk Grade. Sidewalk grade is defined as the elevation of the sidewalk surface at any given point.
Sign. Sign is defined as any whole or part of a display board, wall, screen, or object, used to announce,
declare, demonstrate, display, or otherwise present a message and attract the attention of the
public.
Sign Face. Sign face is defined as the surface upon which the sign message is placed.
Significant Tree. Significant tree is defined as any tree which measures 12 inches or more in diameter
at 4.5 feet above the average natural grade at the base of the tree or is more than 35 feet in height.
Sill. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.9.2.C.4. (Sill), sill is defined as the bottommost horizontal exterior surface of a
window opening including a ledge or other architectural detail that projects from the surrounding
building facade.
Simulated Divided-Lite. Simulated divided-lite is defined as a way to create the look of authentic
divided lites, simulated divided-lite bars are permanently adhered to both sides of glass. See Sec.
3D.9.1.C.5. (Symmetrical Lite Pattern) .
Site. See project site.
Site Modification. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.4. (Site Modification), site modification is defined as work
including modifications to existing, or the addition of, new horizontal site improvements and landscaping, including trees, fences or walls, street furniture, lighting fixtures, grading, fatworkl, ground mounted signs, and parking lot resurfacing or the reconfiguration of existing parking stalls.
Skilled Nursing Home. Skilled nursing home is defined as residential housing that is licensed by the
California Department of Health, and provides acute, intermediate, or long-term skilled nursing
care, and consists only of efficiency dwelling units for its residents. Full-time medical services may
be provided on the premises. It may be a component of a senior care facility. See Sec. 5D.2.4.B.
(Supportive Housing: Medical Care) .
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Slope. Slope is defined as the plane or incline of land, usually expressed as a percentage:
vertical distance
% slope = ----------------- x 100
horizontal distance
Small Species Tree. Small species tree is defined as a tree with a minimum 15-foot canopy spread at
maturity.
Social Service Center. Social service center is defined as any facility that provides services for the
benefit of the community, on a voluntary basis, including the following: employment services, job
training, business incubation, youth development, educational services, medical and mental health
care, substance abuse treatment, food aid, or other similar services. See Sec. 9.3.4.C.6. (Social
Service Incentive Area) .
Social Services. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.10. (Social Services), social services are defined as publicly
accessible administrative services and governmental services that support public welfare through social programs. Social services may be operated by a government entity, a non-profit or a non governmental organization, and includes welfare service, foster family services, day treatment,
adult day care, special needs care, and all other non-residential community care facilities.
Soil Depth. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.6.4.D.4. (Soil Depth), soil depth is defined as the shortest vertical
dimension of growing medium provided, for all portions of a planting area.
Soil Volume. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.6.4.D.5. (Soil Volume), soil volume is defined as the total volume
of growing medium provided. Drainage layers and other elements located within a container or
planter that are not growing medium are not included in the calculation of soil volume.
Solid Area. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.4. (Solid Area), solid area is defined as the portions of the
perimeter planes that have a permanent structure or component physically obstructing the space
from its surroundings. For the purpose of measuring the enclosure of a space, portions of the
perimeter plane are considered solid area where a permanent structure or component is located within five feet of the perimeter plane, measured perpendicular to the perimeter plane and away
from the subject space.
Solid Perimeter. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.6. (Solid Perimeter), solid perimeter is defined as the length
of a perimeter of a space that consists of solid area for the entire height of the perimeter plane.
Soundstages & Backlots. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.4. (Soundstages & Backlots), soundstages & backlots
are defined as any light industrial use providing facilities for the construction and use of indoor or outdoor filming sets and adjoining backlot facilities, including supporting ofcefi workspace, machine shops, and warehousing related to filming or film production.
Special Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.C.3. (Special Lot Line), special lot line is defined as any lot line
mapped as a special lot line on the Special Lot Line map, pursuant to Sec. 1.5.8. (Special Lot Line
Map) and designated within an applied Form District (Part 2B.) or Frontage District (Part 3B.) that specifies standards for a special lot line.
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Special Lot Line-Facing Facade. Special lot line-facing facade is defined as any facade which faces a
special lot line.
Special Use Program. Special use program is defined as programs established for uses that require a
detailed and prescriptive set of performance standards for safe, orderly, and efficient operation, in
addition to any general use standards and supplemental standards that may be included in the Use
District table. See Div. 5C.3. (Special Use Programs) .
Special Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.B.2. (Special Yard), special yard is defined as the area between a
special lot line and an imaginary line running parallel to the special lot line. The imaginary line shall
be drawn 15 feet back from the portion of the special lot line-facing facade nearest to the primary
street lot line, measured perpendicularly to the lot line.
Special Zone. A Special Zone is a set of self-contained development regulations, adopted by
ordinance, tailored and applied to a designated area having unique characteristics that may not
lend themselves to established zoning districts and regulations. See Div. 8.3. (Special Zones) .
Specific Adverse Impact. Pursuant to California Government Code Sec. 65589.5(d)(2), specific adverse
impact is defined as a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the
date the application was deemed complete.
Specific Plan. Specific Plan is defined as a zoning tool, adopted by ordinance, to provide detailed
standards, and regulations, together with a map or description defining the locations where such
standards, and regulations apply.
Specified Anatomical Parts. The same as defined in Chapter X. (Business Regulations), Sec. 103.01.
(Definitions) of this Code.
Specified Sexual Activities. The same as defined in Chapter X. (Business Regulations), Sec. 103.01.
(Definitions) of this Code.
Spread at Maturity. Spread at maturity is defined as the horizontal width of a shrub or the crown of a
tree at maturity. See Sec. 4C.6.4.D.3. (Canopy Diameter, Spread, and Height at Maturity) .
Standard Hillside Limited Street. Standard hillside limited street is defined as a street (public or
private) with a minimum width of 36 feet, and paved to a minimum roadway width of 28 feet, as
determined by the Bureau of Engineering.
Standards Package. Standards package is defined as a group of related development standards which
is applied through Development Standards Districts (Part 4B.) .
Stock Cooperative. The same as defined in California Business and Professions Code, Sec. 11003.2 .
Storage, Indoor. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.4. (Storage, Indoor), storage, indoor is defined as the indoor
holding of goods, merchandise, supplies, material, machinery, equipment, or other items for future
use.
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Storage, Indoor: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.4.A. (Storage, Indoor: General), storage, indoor:
general is defined as any storage, indoor use that is incidental to another use. This use does not
include storage, indoor: self-service for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.4.B. (Storage, Indoor: Self-Service) .
This use does not include indoor storage that functions as the primary use on a lot and is not
incidental to another use, for such uses see Sec. 5D.8.6. (Wholesale Trade & Warehousing) .
Storage, Indoor: Self-Service. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.4.B. (Storage, Indoor: Self-Service), storage,
indoor: self-service is defined as any storage, indoor use that offers secure self-storage for
household goods in individual rooms, compartments, lockers, or containers, to which clients bring
goods for storage and retrieve them at any time during normal business hours.
Storage, Outdoor. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5. (Storage, Outdoor), storage, outdoor is defined as the
outdoor holding of goods, merchandise, supplies, material, machinery, equipment, vehicles, or
other items for future use. Includes contractors' equipment storage yards and lumber yards.
Storage, Outdoor: Cargo Container. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.E. (Storage, Outdoor: Cargo Container),
storage, outdoor: cargo container is defined as any storage, outdoor use involving the keeping
of empty cargo containers. Storage, outdoor: cargo container may include storage of container
chassis and commercial truck cabs, repair facilities, warehouses, and ofcefi s, incidental to the
movement or storage of cargo containers. This use does not include the storage of cargo
containers that are not empty, or uses which are part of any freight transfer, for such uses see Sec.
5D.5.3. (Freight Transfer Facility) .
Storage, Outdoor: Donation Bin. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.D. (Storage, Outdoor: Donation Bin), storage,
outdoor: donation bin is defined as any storage, outdoor use, involving a box, canister, receptacle,
or other container that can be opened and closed, and is used for collecting salvageable personal
property, including, but not limited to, clothing, shoes, books, and household items for periodic off-site processing or redistribution. For purposes of this definition, salvageable personal property
shall not include recyclable materials not intended for re-use, including, but not limited to,
newspapers, plastic, glass, aluminum, electronics, toxic or hazardous materials, and solid waste. For purposes of this definition, donation bins are limited dimensionally to 82-inches in height,
50-inches in depth, and 60-inches in width. For bins that are larger in size, see Sec. 5D.9.4.A.
(Recycling Facility: Collection) .
Storage, Outdoor: General. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.A. (Storage, Outdoor: General), storage, outdoor:
general is defined as any storage, outdoor use that is in conjunction with another use. This use
does not include the keeping of empty cargo containers, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.5.E. (Storage,
Outdoor: Cargo Container) . This use does not include inactive large vehicles, for such uses see
Sec. 5D.7.C. (Storage, Outdoor: Large Vehicle) . This use does not include towing and storage for official motor vehicle impound, for such uses see Sec. 5D.7.5.F. (Storage, Outdoor: Official Motor
Vehicle Impound) . This use does not include inactive standard vehicles, for such uses see Sec.
5D.7.5.B. (Storage, Outdoor: Standard Vehicle) .
Storage, Outdoor: Large Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.C. (Storage, Outdoor: Large Vehicle), storage,
outdoor: large vehicle is defined as the outdoor storage of large vehicles that are not actively used
by the site's occupants, employees, or visitors. Large vehicles include vehicles possessing three or
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more axles, such as trailer trucks, construction vehicles, motor homes, and recreational vehicles
as well as recreational boats and watercraft. This use includes storage of inoperable vehicles. This
use does not include uses where vehicles are actively used by the site's occupants, employees, or
visitors; for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.6. (Parking) .
Storage, Outdoor: Official Motor Vehicle Impound. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.F. (Storage, Outdoor:
Official Motor Vehicle Impound), storage, outdoor: official motor vehicle impound is defined as
any vehicle towing and storage service that involves City-approved vendors that support the public
safety mission of the Los Angeles Police Department and Department of Transportation.
Storage, Outdoor: Standard Vehicle. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.7.5.B. (Storage, Outdoor: Standard Vehicle),
storage, outdoor: standard vehicle is defined as the outdoor storage of standard vehicles that are
not actively used by the site's occupants, employees, or visitors. Standard vehicles include vehicles
possessing two or fewer axles, such as cars, motorcycles, sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks,
and vans. Includes storage of inoperable vehicles. This use does not include uses where vehicles
are actively used by the site's occupants, employees, or visitors; for such uses see Sec. 5D.3.6.
(Parking) .
Stories. See story.
Story. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10. (Story), story is defined as the portion of a building or structure
included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor next above,
except that the top most story is that portion of a building or structure included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the ceiling structure above.
Street Centerline. Street centerline is defined as a line that is aligned to the center of a street as
established and maintained by the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Engineering.
Street Designation. Street designation is defined as the classification assigned to a roadway or other
public right-of-way based on Citywide General Plan Circulation System maps of the Circulation
Element for the purposes of providing dimensional and performance standards.
Street Frontage. For the purposes of Div. 4C.11. (Signs), street frontage is defined as the length of a line
separating a lot from one street.
Street Lot Line. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.12.B.2. (Street Lot Line), street lot line is defined as any lot line
that abuts a street right-of-way. Street lot lines include all primary street lot lines, side street lot
lines, and alley lot lines.
Street Step-Back. Pursuant to Sec. 2C.6.1. (Street Step-Back), street step-back is defined as a step-like
recess in the massing of a building that requires upper stories to be pushed back from the lower
stories from the street.
Street Visible Area. For the purposes of Historic Preservation (Div. 13B.8.), street visible area is defined
as any portion of the front, side, and rear facades that can be seen from any adjacent street, alley,
or sidewalk, or that would be visible but are currently obstructed by landscaping, fencing, or
freestanding walls. It also includes undeveloped portions of the lot where new construction would
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be visible from the adjacent street or sidewalk; facades that are generally visible from non-adjacent
streets due to steep topography; or second stories visible over adjacent one story structures.
Street Wall. Street wall is defined as the condition created along a street by the fronts and consistent
setbacks of buildings, and enhanced by the continuity and the height of the buildings.
Street Yard. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.16.C.2. (Street Yard), street yard is defined as a category of yards
referring to all yards that abut a street right-of-way including front yards and side street yards.
Street-Facing Entrance. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.5.1. (Street-Facing Entrance), street-facing entrance is
defined as a door providing access from the public realm to the interior of a building.
Street-Facing Facade. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.6.D. (Street-Facing Facade), street-facing facade is defined
as the portions of any frontage applicable facade, pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.C.2. (Frontage Applicable
Facades), having no permanent structure (not including fences or walls) located between the
building facade and a street lot line or special lot line.
Structural Floor. Structural floor is defined as the assembly of building components that compose a
floor, which includes any structural members, subfloor, and similar elements. Structural floor does not include finish or underlayment materials such as carpets, tiles, or membranes.
Structural Modification. Structural modification is defined as any change to the existing load-bearing
members of a building or structure, including bearing walls, columns, beams, or girders.
Structure. Structure is defined as any constructed object more than 30 inches in height. For
constructed objects 30 inches or lower in height, see fatworkl .
Structure Footprint. See building footprint.
Student Housing Development. Student housing development is defined pursuant to California
Government Code Sec. 65915(b)(1)(F) .
Subdivider. The same as defined in California Government Code, Sec. 66423. (Subdivider) .
Subdivision. The same as defined in California Government Code, Sec. 66424. (Subdivision) .
Subdivision includes a stock cooperative project.
Subdivision Approval. Subdivision approval is defined as any approval under Div. 13B.7. (Division of
Land) .
Subdivision Committee. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.7.1.D. (Subdivision Committee), subdivision committee
is defined as an advisory committee composed of the following officers of the City or their
duly authorized representatives: the City Engineer; the Superintendent of Building; the Chief
Engineer of the Department of Fire; the Chief Engineer and General Manager of the Department
of Water and Power; the General Manager of the Department of General Services; the General
Manager of the Department of Recreation and Parks; the General Manager of the Department
of Transportation; and the Director of the Bureau of Street Lighting of the Department of Public
Works.
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Subdivision Design. Subdivision design is defined as a set of design features, elements, and
infrastructure incorporated into a subdivision including: street alignments, grades and widths;
drainage and sanitary facilities and utilities, including alignments and grades; location and size of all required easements and right-of-ways; fire roads and firebreaks; lot and size configuration; traffic access; grading; dedication of land for park and recreation purposes; and such other specific requirements in the General Plan and configuration of the entire subdivision as may be
necessary or convenient to insure conformity to or implementation of the General Plan or any
adopted Specifc Plani .
Subdivision Improvement. The same as defined in California Government Code, Title 7. (Planning and
Land Use), Sec. 66419. (Improvement) . For standards to subdivision improvements see Sec. 11.3.3.
(Subdivision Improvements) .
Subdivision Map Act. The Subdivision Map Act, California Government Code, Title 7. (Planning and
Land Use), Div. 2. (Subdivisions), commencing with California Government Code, Sec. 66410 .
Subject Use. As used in Article 5. (Use), a "subject use" refers to a use that is subject to applicable use
rules, permissions, standards, supplemental findings, or special use programs.
Substandard Hillside Limited Street. Substandard hillside limited street is defined as a street which
does not meet the minimum requirements of a standard hillside limited street (public or private),
because it has a width less than 36 feet or is paved to a roadway width of less than 28 feet, as
determined by the Bureau of Engineering.
Supergraphic Sign. Supergraphic sign is defined as a sign, consisting of an image projected onto a wall
or printed on vinyl, mesh or other material, with or without written text, supported and attached to
a wall by an adhesive, by using stranded cable and eye-bolts, or with other materials and methods,
and that does not comply with the following provisions of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A): Sec.
4C.11.6.C.9. (Projecting Signs), Sec. 4C.11.6.C.5. (Marquee Signs), Sec. 4C.11.2. (Temporary Signs),
Sec. 4C.11.1.E.2. (Original Art Murals, Vintage Original Art Murals and Public Art Installations) .
Superintendent. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.10.3.A.2. (Definitions), Superintendent is defined as the
Superintendent of Building or his or her authorized representative.
Supplemental District. Supplemental District is defined as a limited set of topic-specific development
regulations, adopted by ordinance, and is indicated in a third zoning bracket in the zone string,
and applied to a designated area in order to establish additional regulations that build upon and
enhance regulations applied through zoning districts. See Div. 8.2. (Supplemental Districts) .
Supportive Housing. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.4. (Supportive Housing), supportive housing is defined as a
residential use that provides housing accommodations and support services on a voluntary basis
to residents on an ongoing basis.
Supportive Housing: General. 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 or off-site supportive services for daily living. Eligible populations may include seniors, children
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within the foster care system, emancipated minors, families with children, elderly persons, young
adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, individuals
receiving rehabilitation or mental health support, veterans, and persons or families experiencing homelessness. The housing accommodations are linked to on-site or off-site supportive services,
including, but not limited to: subsidized, permanent housing; intensive case management; medical or mental health care; substance abuse treatment; employment services; benefits advocacy;
or other services or service referrals necessary to obtain and maintain housing. Any foor areal
used for ofcefi workspace accommodating the administration of supportive services shall be
incidental to the residential use. Medical services shall not be provided on the premises, unless
otherwise permitted by the applied Use District. Supportive housing: general includes a residential
community care facility, assisted living, and permanent supportive housing. Residential uses with six or fewer beds shall be classified as a dwelling rather than supportive housing: general. This use
does not include non-residential community care facilities, for such uses see Social Services (Sec.
5D.3.10.) .
Supportive Housing: Medical Care. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.4.B. (Supportive Housing: Medical
Care), supportive housing: medical care is defined as a residential use of long, and short-term
occupation, which may be licensed by the California Department of Health, to provide 24-hour
non-acute medical services and supportive care on the premises. Supportive housing: medical
care includes congregate living health facilities, skilled nursing homes, residential mental health
facilities, and hospice care. Any foor areal used for ofcefi workspace accommodating the
administration of medical services and supportive care shall be incidental to the residential use.
Supportive housing: medical care facilities may include dwelling units, common dining areas, or
other community rooms.
Supportive Housing: Transitional. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.2.4.C. (Supportive Housing: Temporary),
Supportive housing: temporary is defined as a facility providing temporary housing
accommodations or services, including low barrier navigation, to persons or families experiencing
homelessness. Supportive housing: temporary may provide housing for persons or families
experiencing homelessness for a time period not to exceed six months within a calendar year. Supportive housing: temporary shall be provided by a government agency or private non-profit
organization which provides, or contracts with recognized community organizations to provide,
emergency or temporary shelter or services for persons or families experiencing homelessness.
Supportive Services. Supportive services are defined as services that are provided on a voluntary basis
to residents of supportive housing or transitional housing, including, but not limited to, intensive
case management, medical and mental health care, substance abuse treatment, employment services, benefits advocacy, and other services or service referrals necessary to obtain and
maintain housing. See Sec. 9.4.1. (Permanent Supportive Housing Incentive Program) .
Surrounding Grade. Surrounding grade is defined as the elevation of finished grade measured along
the perimeter of an object, assembly, or structure.
Surveyed Historic Resource. Surveyed historic resource is defined as any building, structure, object,
site, landscape, or natural feature identified through an historic resources survey as eligible for
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listing as either an individual resource or as a contributor to a historic district under a local, state
or federal designation program, including but not limited to listing in the National Register of
Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources, or designation as a Historic-Cultural
Monument or as a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. This term does not include a non contributor to an eligible historic district.
Surveyor. Surveyor is defined as a licensed land surveyor authorized to practice in California.
Sustainable Energy Systems. Sustainable energy systems is defined as any equipment which uses
renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, to generate electricity, heating or cooling.
Symmetrical Lite Pattern. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.9.1.C.5. (Symmetrical Lite Pattern), symmetrical lite
pattern is defined as window panes that are arranged or designed so that the left-side of the
window composition is a mirror image of the right-side of the window composition.
T
Target Population. For the purposes of Article 9. (Public Benefit Systems), target population is defined
as persons with qualifying lower incomes who:
- Have one or more disabilities, including mental illness, HIV or AIDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health condition, and are homeless as defined by any Los Angeles City, Los Angeles
County, State of California, or federal guidelines; or 2. Are chronically homeless, as defined by any Los Angeles City, Los Angeles County, State of
California, or federal guidelines.
Targeted Planting Area. Targeted planting area is defined as a planting area with boundaries
established pursuant to Sec. 1.5.5.B. (Boundaries) .
Targeted Planting List. Targeted planting list is defined as the document containing planting
requirements established to implement the Targeted Planting Areas Map. See Sec. 1.5.5. (Targeted
Planting Map) .
Temporary Construction Wall. Temporary construction wall is defined as a temporary solid fence
or barrier of wood or similar material that provides protection for pedestrians and is erected and
maintained on the perimeter of a construction or demolition site, which may be required by
Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.3306. (Protection of Pedestrians) of this Code.
Temporary Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.2. (Temporary Signs), temporary sign is defined as any sign
that is to be maintained for a limited duration, including paper signs, posters, pennants, banners, ribbons, streamers, spinners, and other signs that are not permanently affixed to the ground or
building.
Temporary Use. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.7. (Temporary Use), temporary use is defined as a use of a
building or lot with any use defined in Part 5D. (Use Definitions) that does not exceed 180 days and
meets the requirements of Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.106.1.3. (Temporary Permits)
of this Code.
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Tentative Tract Map. Tentative tract map is defined as a map made for the purpose of showing the
design of a proposed subdivision creating five or more parcels, five or more condominiums, or five
or more units in a community apartment project or stock cooperative and prepared pursuant to
Sec. 11.2. (Tentative Tract Maps) .
Through Lot. Through lot is defined as a lot abutting two parallel or approximately parallel streets, a lot
situated at the intersection of two streets having an angle of intersection of 35 degrees or less, or
a lot abutting three or more streets. A through lot does not include those lots abutting a street and
also abutting a navigable public canal or waterway parallel or approximately parallel to said street.
Tier 1 Bonus Floor Area Ratio. Tier 1 bonus floor area ratio is defined as the bonus foor area ratiol
granted pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.1.C.2. (Tier 1 Bonus) .
Tier 1 Bonus Height. Tier 1 bonus height is defined as the bonus height in feet granted pursuant to
Sec. 2C.4.2.C.2. (Tier 1 Bonus) or the bonus height in stories granted pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.3.C.2.b.
(Tier 1 Bonus) .
Tier 2 Bonus Floor Area Ratio. Tier 2 bonus floor area ratio is defined as the tier 2 bonus floor area
ratio granted pursuant to Sec. 2C.4.1.C.2. (Tier 2 Bonus) .
Tier 2 Bonus Height. Tier 2 bonus height is defined as the bonus height in feet granted pursuant
to Sec. 2C.4.2.C.2.3. (Tier 2 Bonus) or the bonus height in stories granted pursuant to Sec.
2C.4.3.C.2.c. (Tier 2 Bonus) .
Tract Map. Tract map is defined as either a tentative tract map or fnal tract mapi .
Transient. For the purposes of the Home-Sharing Program (Sec. 5C.3.2.), transient shall have the same
meaning as that term is defined in Chapter II. (Licenses, Permits, Business Regulations), Sec. 21.7.2. (Definitions) of this Code.
Transition Screen. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.8.2. (Transition Screens), transition screen is defined as a device
or combination of elements along a common lot line that conceals, obstructs or protects abutting
lots from impactful uses, activities, or site elements.
Transitional Foster Youth. Transitional foster youth is defined pursuant to California Education Code
Sec. 66025.9 .
Transitional Housing. Transitional housing is defined as a building where housing linked to supportive
services is offered, usually for a period of up to 24 months, to facilitate movement to permanent
housing for persons with low incomes who may have one or more disabilities, and may include
but are not limited to, adults, emancipated minors, families with children, elderly persons, young
adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, veterans,
and persons or families experiencing homelessness.
Transmit. See transmitted.
Transmitted. Transmitted is defined as a notification of a decision in writing, by mail, or electronically.
See Sec. 13A.2.5.D. (Transmittal) .
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Transparent Area. Pursuant to Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area), transparent area is defined as the
amount of transparent area on a building facade.
Transportation Demand Management. Transportation demand management is defined as the
modification of travel behavior through programs of incentives, services, and policies, including
encouraging the use of alternatives to single-occupant vehicles such as public transit, cycling,
walking, carpooling/vanpooling, and changes in work schedule that move trips out of the peak
period or eliminate them altogether (such as telecommuting or compressed work weeks).See Div.
4C.5. (Transportation Demand Management) .
Transportation Use. Pursuant to Div. 5D.5. (Transportation Uses), transportation use is defined as
uses that facilitate major modes of transportation for the loading or unloading of passengers and
freight.
Trash Chute. Trash chute is defined as any vertical smooth shaft used to convey rubbish, trash, or
garbage from the upper floors of a building to a trash storage bin or room at the bottom end of
the chute.
Tree Expert. 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 control advisor; or a landscape architect; or a registered consulting arborist with the American
Society of Consulting Arborists.
Trip Reduction. For the purposes of Article 9. (Public Benefit Systems) trip reduction is defined as the
reduction in the number of work-related trips made by single-occupant vehicles.
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Uncovered. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.2.A.2. (Uncovered), uncovered is defined as an instance where 25
percent or more of a space or structure's area is open to the sky. Areas containing overhead,
non-solid structures, such as lattice and pergolas, may be considered uncovered provided that 25
percent or more of their area is open to the sky.
Underground Parking. Underground parking is defined as motor vehicle use areas located below the
fnished fi oor elevationl of the ground story.
Underground Structure. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.j. (Underground Structures), underground
structure is defined as a covered structure located entirely below finished grade. Examples of
underground structures include, but are not limited to: cellars, basements, underground parking
structures, stormwater storages, or cisterns.
Unenclosed. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.2. (Unenclosed), unenclosed is defined as an instance when the
perimeter of a space has an enclosure of less than 66.7 percent.
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Unexpired. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.12.1.C. (Definitions) of this Code, unexpired is defined as the
applicable redevelopment regulations that are still in effect on the date of approval of a
redevelopment plan project or redevelopment plan amendment.
Unified Development. Unified development is defined as a development consisting of multiple
lots within a common site plan which is unified by a combination of functional linkages, such
as pedestrian or vehicular connections, common architectural and landscape features which
constitute distinctive design elements of the development, and when viewed from adjoining streets appears to be a consolidated whole. A unified development may include lots that abut or
are separated only by an alley or are located across the street from any portion of each other. See Sec. 14.2.1. (Lot) for clarification on lot ties.
Uniformity Ratio. Uniformity ratio is defined as a ratio of the average illumination to minimum
illumination.
Upper Story. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.D. (Upper Story), upper story is defined as any story of a building
located above the ground story.
Upper Story Facade. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.10.E. (Upper Story Facade), upper story facade is defined
as the portions of the exterior building envelope at the perimeter of each upper story for the full
height of the story.
Upper Story Height. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.5.2. (Upper Story Height), upper story height is defined as the
floor-to-floor height of any story of a building located above the ground story.
Urbanized Area. Pursuant to Sec. 8.2.4.B.3.b. (Urbanized Area), urbanized area is defined as all land in
the City, except land in the Heavy Industrial 1 Use District, and land which has been determined
to be non-urbanized area by the City Planning Commission or City Council, or land located in the
Los Angeles City Oil Field Area.
Use. Use is defined as the purpose for which land or a building is arranged, designed, or intended, or
for which land or a building is, or may be, occupied or maintained.
Use Category. Use category is defined as a group of use groups.
Use District. Use District is defined as the fourth component in a zone string established in Part 5B.
(Use Districts), which regulates land uses by assigning permission levels for defined uses as well
as citing applicable performance standards, supplemental procedures for conditional uses, and
special use programs.
Use District Table. Use District table is defined as a table provided for each Use District established in
Part 5B. (Use Districts) that contains a list of uses and their assigned permission levels, along with
any applicable performance standards, conditional use procedures, and special use programs that
apply to uses within a Use District.
Use Group. Use group is defined as a group of individual uses with common use characteristics and
similar activities.
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Use Modification. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.15.B.6. (Use Modification), use modification is defined as a
change of use or an intensifcation of usei .
Used Vehicle Sales Area. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.10.4. (Annual Inspection Monitoring (Type 2)), used
vehicle sales area is defined as an area or lot where any type of used motor vehicle or trailer is
displayed for sale.
Utilities. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11. (Utilities), utilities is defined as utility infrastructure as a primary
use of land, necessary for the public provision of services such as water, sewer, power, or communications. For the purposes of this definition, utilities uses exclude the following off-site
systems: transmission lines, pipes, or other systems for conveying and transmitting services within
utility easements, as those systems are not regulated as a use of land by Article 5. (Use) .
Utilities: Major. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11.B. (Utilities: Major), utilities: major is defined as utility
infrastructure that requires significant health, safety, and environmental precautions due to
potential adverse impacts immediate surroundings, and requires on-site personnel. Utilities: major
include non-solar power generation facilities, wastewater treatment, and water supply treatment.
Utilities: Minor. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11.A. (Utilities: Minor), utilities: minor is defined as utility
infrastructure that does not require significant health, safety, and environmental precautions,
and do not require on-site personnel. Utilities: minor includes renewable energy generation,
including wind turbines, geothermal systems, and solar photovoltaic systems serving no more than 10 different lots with supporting on-site storage, control and transmission equipment, storm
water retention or detention ponds, aeration and septic systems, reservoirs, lift stations, water
supply wells and water tanks or towers, telecommunications switching facilities, and electrical
substations.
Utilities: Solar Energy Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11.C. (Utilities: Solar Energy Facility), utilities: solar
energy facility is defined as utility infrastructure that generates energy for the general public using a solar photovoltaic system primarily for off-site use or sale serving 11 or more lots.
Utilities: Wireless Facility, Freestanding. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11.D. (Utilities: Wireless Facility,
Freestanding), utilities: wireless facility, freestanding is defined as a freestanding device or system
including a monopole, tower, or antenna for the transmitting or receiving of electromagnetic
signals, including, but not limited to, radio waves and microwaves, for cellular technology,
personal communications services, mobile services, paging systems and related technologies.
Facilities include antennas, microwave dishes, parabolic antennas and all other types of equipment
used in the transmission and reception of such signals; structures for the support of such facilities,
associated buildings or cabinets to house support equipment, and other accessory structures or
development. A utilities: wireless facility, freestanding is a type of telecommunications facility.
Utilities: Wireless Facility, Rooftop. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.3.11.E. (Utilities: Wireless Facility, Rooftop),
utilities: wireless facility, rooftop is defined as a device or system that is mounted on a building
or structure rooftop for the transmitting or receiving of electromagnetic signals, including, but
not limited to, radio waves and microwaves, for cellular technology, personal communications
services, mobile services, private antennas, paging systems and related technologies. Facilities
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include antennas, microwave dishes, parabolic antennas and all other types of equipment used
in the transmission and reception of such signals; structures for the support of such facilities,
associated buildings or cabinets to house support equipment, and other accessory structures or
development. A utilities: wireless facility, rooftop is a type of telecommunications facility.
Utility Area. Utility area is defined as any area containing mechanical equipment or utility equipment.
Utility Equipment. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.i. (Utility Equipment), utility equipment is defined as
equipment related to publicly-operated or utility-operated systems, including their related wires,
conduits and pipes. Examples of utility equipment include, but are not limited to: hydrants,
transformers, utility cabinets, water utility devices, cable television boxes, Internet boxes, or phone
boxes.
V
Vacant Lot. Vacant lot is defined as a lot on which no building, temporary or permanent, is erected; or
which has no uses of the land.
Vanpool. Vanpool is defined as a vehicle carrying six or more persons to and from work on a regular
schedule, and on a prepaid basis.
Variance. Pursuant to Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance), variance is defined as granted relief from a standard or
regulation in this Chapter or Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) on the basis of hardship or difficulties.
Vegetation. For purposes of Sec. 14.1.5. (Encroachments) vegetation is defined as living organisms,
absorbing water and organic substances through its roots and synthesizing nutrients. Examples of vegetation include, but are not limited to: trees, shrubs, flowers, herbs, vegetables, grasses, ferns,
or moss.
Vehicle. Vehicle is defined as anything used to transport people or goods, including automobiles, vans,
trucks, buses, and motorcycles, bicycles, or any other form of micro-mobility.
Vehicle Entry Restriction Device. Vehicle entry restriction device is defined as any device, such as
mechanical gates or ticket dispensers, restricting ingress vehicle traffic during operating hours.
Vertical Band Articulation. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.6.4. (Vertical Band Articulation), vertical band
articulation is a continuous band of material running vertically up a facade.
Vertical Circulation. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.B.1.d. (Vertical Circulation), vertical circulation is defined
as enclosed and covered structures used for building circulation and rooftop access. Examples of
vertical circulation may include, but are not limited to: elevator rooms and associated equipment,
and stair accesses to a roof.
Vertical Encroachment. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.B. (Vertical Encroachments), vertical encroachment
is defined as a structure or assembly that extends vertically into a space where structures are
typically prohibited.
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Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) are
determined through the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) wildfire hazard assessment, based on
boundaries established by the Los Angeles Fire Department in accordance with state law.
Very Low Income Household. A very low income household is a household whose annual income,
adjusted for family size, does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income as designated for
this category in California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 50105 .
Very Low Vehicle Travel Area. Very low vehicle travel area is defined pursuant to California
Government Code Sec. 65915(o)(9) .
Vesting Preliminary Parcel Map. Vesting preliminary parcel map is defined as a preliminary parcel map
for any land division that has printed conspicuously on its face the words "Vesting Preliminary Parcel Map" and is characterized by certain rights to proceed with development when filed and
processed in accordance with Div. 13B.7. (Division of Land) .
Vesting Tentative Tract Map. Vesting tentative tract map is defined as a tentative tract map for any
land division that has printed conspicuously on its face the words “Vesting Tentative Tract Map” and is characterized by certain rights to proceed with development when filed and processed in
accordance with Div. 13B.7. (Division of Land) .
Vintage Original Art Mural. Vintage original art mural is defined as an original art mural that existed
prior to October 12, 2013 (the operative date of Ord. No. 182,706 ). See Div. 4C.11. (Signs) .
Visual Light Transmittance. Visual light transmittance is defined as the amount of light in the visible
portion of the spectrum that passes through a glazing material as defined in manufacturer specifications.
Visual Obstruction. Visual obstruction is defined as any opaque object, assembly, or structure that
obscures visibility through a transparent area, on the interior side of the transparent area of a
building facade. See Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) .
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Waiver. For the purposes of Sec. 9.2.1. (State Density Bonus), Sec. 9.2.2. (Affordable Housing Incentive
Program), Sec. 9.2.3. (Opportunity Corridors Housing Incentive Program), Sec. 9.2.4. (Corridor
Transitions Incentive Program), and Sec. 9.2.5. (Transit Oriented Incentive Program), waivers are defined as reductions in development standards that will have the effect of physically precluding
the construction of a housing development project at the densities or with the incentives permitted under those referenced Sections, as specifically discussed in California Government
Code Sec. 65915(e) . Waivers neither reduce nor increase the number of incentives or density
bonus that a project is entitled to in those Sections. The terms density bonus, incentive, and housing development project, are defined in this Glossary (Div. 14.3.) .
Walking Distance. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.3.A.2. (Walking Distance), walking distance is defined as the
distance measured as the most direct path of travel for a pedestrian.
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Wall. Wall is defined as a constructed vertical barrier erected to enclose, screen, or separate areas. A
wall differs from a fence in having a solid foundation along its whole length.
Wall Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.12. (Wall Sign), wall sign is defined as a sign on the wall of a
building or structure, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane approximately parallel to the
plane of the wall, that has been attached to, painted on, or erected against the wall, projected onto
the wall, or printed on any material which is supported and attached to the wall by an adhesive or
other materials or methods.
Waste Enclosure. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.5.A.1.h. (Waste Enclosure), waste enclosure is defined as waste
areas and their required screening structures. Examples of waste enclosures include, but are not
limited to: trash compactors, garbage, recycling, or food waste.
Waste Facility. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.5. (Waste Facility), waste facility is defined as any heavy industrial
use involving the receipt, storage, separation, conversion, combustion, processing of solid waste, transfer of waste directly from small to larger vehicles for transport, or operation as a landfill. This
use includes facilities involved in the transfer, processing, and transformation of organic waste,
construction and demolition debris, inert material, solid waste.
Waste Facility: Hazardous Waste. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.5.B. (Waste Facility: Hazardous Waste), waste
facility: hazardous waste is defined as any waste facility use involving the storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code, Sec. 25117.1. (Definitions) .
Waste Facility: Organic Waste. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.5.A. (Waste Facility: Organic Waste), waste
facility: organic waste is defined as any waste facility use that receives any material that comes
from a plant or animal and is biodegradable, for chipping and grinding, composting, curing,
mulching or similar processing methods. This use does not include any chipping and grinding,
composting, curing, or mulching conducted as part of the maintenance of landscaped areas
associated with any public & institutional uses or open space & recreation uses.
Waste Facility: Solid Waste. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.9.5.C. (Waste Facility: Solid Waste), waste facility: solid
waste is defined as any waste facility use that does not involve any storage, treatment, and disposal
of hazardous waste, or that does not exclusively receive organic waste. For such uses, see Sec.
5D.9.5.B. (Waste facility: Hazardous Waste) and Sec. 5D.9.5.A. (Waste Facility: Organic Waste) .
Water Supply. For the purposes of Div. 13B.7. (Division of Land), water supply is defined as the water
system supply and distribution facilities necessary to provide a reliable and adequate water supply for private use and public fire protection purposes.
Weighted Solid Perimeter. Pursuant to Sec. 14.2.4.A.7. (Weighted Solid Perimeter), weighted solid
perimeter is defined as the length of the perimeter plane weighted by the percent of the perimeter
plane area that is composed of solid area, for each perimeter plane where perimeter planes consist
of a mix of solid area and non-solid area.
Wetland. For the purposes of Sec. 13B.9.2. (Coastal Development Permit (Post-Certification)), wetland
is defined as lands within the Coastal Zone, which may be covered periodically or permanently
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with shallow, water and include saltwater marshes, freshwater marshes, open or closed brackish water marshes, swamps, mudflats and fens.
Wholesale Trade & Warehousing. Pursuant to Sec. 5D.8.5. (Wholesale Trade & Warehousing),
wholesale trade & warehousing is defined as any light industrial use facility primarily used for the
high volume storage of goods for sale in large quantities primarily to businesses, or the storage of
products intended for consolidation and distribution to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, or end users. This use includes seasonal inventory storage, distribution centers, fulfillment centers,
cold storage facilities, and facilities housing goods for sale in bulk to businesses or institutions.
This use does not include the sale of goods directly to consumers; for such uses see Sec. 5D.6.12. (Retail) . This use does not include the transshipment of freight between different modes of
transport, such as rail to trucking transport; for such uses see Sec. 5D.5.3. (Freight Transfer Facility) .
Whorl. Whorl is defined as the arrangement of three or more buds, leaves, flowers, or twigs at the
same node.
Window. Window is defined as an operable or inoperable opening constructed in a wall that admits
light or air into an enclosure and is often framed and spanned with glass or other translucent
material.
Window Assembly. Window assembly is defined as a manufactured assembly of a frame, sash, glazing,
and necessary hardware, made to fit a window opening.
Window Display. Window display is defined as a display, behind a window, along the facade of
a building exhibiting items or advertisements designed to attract the attention of passersby,
including window signs.
Window Frame. Window frame is defined as the fixed frame of a window, consisting of two jambs, a
head, and a sill.
Window Opening. Window opening is defined as an opening in the wall of a building for admitting
light and air, usually fitted with a frame in which are set operable sashes containing panes of glass.
Window Recession. Pursuant to Sec. 3D.9.1.C.3. (Window Recession), window recession is defined as
the depth that a window is set back from the surrounding facade.
Window Sash. Window sash is defined as the fixed or movable framework of a window or door in
which panes of glass are set.
Window Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C.11.6.C.13. (Window Sign), window sign is defined as a sign, except
for a supergraphic sign, that is attached to, affixed to, leaning against, or otherwise placed within
six feet of a window or door in a manner so that the sign is visible from outside the building.
Wood Waste. Wood waste is defined as any discarded untreated or unpainted wood material,
and includes pallets, plywood, and other construction-related scrap lumber, stumps, and tree
trimmings.
Div. 14.3. (Glossary) Last amended by Ord. 188,648, Eff. 06/20/2025
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General Rules | ARTICLE 14 Div. 14.3. (Glossary)
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City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A
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Yard. Yard is defined as all portions of a lot between exterior walls of a building and a property line. See
Sec. 14.2.16. (Yards) .
Yard Sign. Pursuant to Sec. 4C. 11.6.C.14. (Yard Sign), yard sign is defined as a small sign placed in a
yard or other amenity space.
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Zone String. Pursuant to Sec. 1.3.1. (Zone String), zone string is defined as the combination of zoning
districts applied to a lot including, Form District (Part 2B.), Frontage District (Part 3B.), Development
Standards District (Part 4B.), Use District (Part 5B.), and Density District (Part 6B.) .
Zoning Administrator. Zoning Administrator is defined as the Chief Zoning Administrator or an
Associate Zoning Administrator. The Director may appoint the Zoning Administrator to act as the Director’s designee or as a Hearing Officer for the Director. See Sec. 13A.1.7. (Zoning
Administrator) .
Zoning District. Zoning district is defined as all zoning districts that compose a zone string including
Form Districts (Part 2B.), Frontage Districts (Part 3B.), Development Standards Districts (Part 4B.),
Use Districts (Part 5B.), and Density Districts (Part 6B.) . Pursuant to Sec. 1.3.1.B. (Zoning Districts),
the term zoning district does not include Specifc Plani s, Supplemental Districts, or Special Zones.
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Div. 14.3. (Glossary) Last amended by Ord. 188,648, Eff. 06/20/2025
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