Part 3C — GENERAL FRONTAGE RULES

Article 3. Frontage Article Publication Update | August 20, 2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.1. BUILD-TO SEC. 3C.1.1. APPLICABLE STORIES

Applicable stories is defined as the number of stories that are required to meet build-to standards.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Applicable Stories) is to ensure that ground stories of buildings, and upper stories where appropriate, are located in a consistent manner along the street.

B. Applicability

Applicable stories standards apply to new construction of any portion of a building, or a whole building. When the applicable stories standards apply, the standards apply to any part of the building that is required to meet the standards of Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth) and the standards of Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width).

C. Standards

Where minimum applicable stories are required, build-to standards apply to the ground story and any additional story provided on a lot, up to, and including, the minimum build-to applicable stories.

Build-to Zone Build-to Zone
2 Applicable 2 Applicable
3 Provided
1 Provided
Street Street

D. Measurement

For measuring height in stories, see Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories) .

E. Relief

1. A reduction of one story from the number of applicable stories may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A reduction in number of applicable stories may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.1.1. (Applicable Stories) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

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.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Build-To-Depth) is to regulate buildings along the public realm and to create a consistent street wall.

B. Applicability

Build-to depth standards apply to new construction. When build-to depth standards apply, they apply to all portions of buildings required to satisfy the standards of Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) and the standards of Sec. 3C.1.1. (Applicable Stories).

C. Standards

1. The build-to zone shall be no deeper than the maximum build-to depth of the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. Buildings shall occupy the build-to zone for at least the minimum required build-to width.

3. Once the minimum build-to width standard has been satisfied, buildings and structures may occupy the area behind the build-to zone.

4. On a corner lot where intersecting frontage lot lines have build-to requirements, a building shall occupy the portion of the lot area where the build-to zones of the two intersecting frontage lot lines overlap, as described below:

   • a. The building shall occupy the build-to zones for both frontage lot lines for a minimum of 30 feet from the corner. This building width counts toward the required build-to width for both frontage lot lines.

   • b. This standard does not apply when a pedestrian amenity space occupies some portion of the area of overlap and is being used as a pedestrian amenity allowance. See Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) .

Area of
Overlap
Build-to Depth
Build-to Zone
Street 30’
Build-to Depth
30’

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Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. The build-to depth is measured perpendicular to the frontage lot line starting from the minimum building setback and continuing inward away from the frontage lot line.

2. Where a lot includes an easement that abuts the frontage lot line and the easement is deeper than the minimum building setback, the applicant may choose to measure the required build- to depth from the interior edge of the easement rather than the lot line.

Build-to Depth
Min Setback
Easement
Build-to Zone
Street

3. For a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.3. (Build-To Depth) .

E. Exceptions

1. See Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) .

2. To preserve existing trees that meet minimum size requirements for a small species tree, the Department may increase the build-to depth beyond the maximum allowed by the applied Frontage District to the minimum depth necessary to protect the tree, but by no more than 30 feet pursuant to Sec. 13B.3.1. (Administrative Review) .

3. See Sec. 12.3.1. (Build-To Exceptions) .

+30’
Max Setback
Min Setback
Build-to Zone

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Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

F. Relief

1. An increase in build-to depth of 20 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from maximum build-to depth may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.1.2. (Build-To Depth) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

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.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Build-To-Width) is to ensure that buildings enclose the public realm with a legible and consistent street wall, spatially defining an outdoor room, and to promote a strong visual and physical connection between uses inside buildings and the public realm.

B. Applicability

Build-to width standards apply to new construction and are subject to the following:

1. Where a minimum height is specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.) , build-to width standards apply to all above-grade stories up to the minimum height in stories standard in accordance with Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories) .

Build-to Zone
2 Applicable
3 Provided
Street

2. Where an applicable stories standard exists, build-to width standards apply to all stories located above-grade up to the applicable stories.

Build-to Width
Build-to Zone
2 Applicable
4 Provided
Street

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Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

3. Where both an applicable stories standard and a minimum height standard are specified, build- to width standards apply to whichever standard requires the greatest number of stories located in the build-to zone.

4. Where no applicable stories standard is specified in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) and no minimum height standard is specified in the applied Form District (Part 2B.) , build-to width standards apply only to the ground story.

C. Standards

1. Building(s) shall occupy the build-to zone for a cumulative width no less than that specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. On a corner lot, a chamfered corner no more than 20 feet in width along both street lot lines qualifies as building width in the build-to zone for all applicable stories even where it extends outside of the build-to zone. Chamfered corner width is measured parallel to the frontage lot line.

Build-to Zone
20’ Max
Street
20’ Max

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Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

3. Portions of building width providing motor vehicle access to a motor vehicle use area through the ground story of a building do not qualify as building width in the build-to zone.

Building
Length
Building Length
Build-to Zone
Street

4. When build-to width is specified as “building-based”, the build-to zone shall be occupied by buildings for not less than 50 percent of the width of the building having the greatest total foor area on the lot.

D. Measurement

The build-to width is a percentage measured as the sum of the widths of all portions of buildings occupying the build-to zone divided by the total lot width.

CALCULATION
A1+A2 (Building width in build-to zone)
= Build-to Width
B (Total Lot Width)
Build-to Depth
Min Setback
A1
B A2 Build-to Zone
Street

1. Building width is measured parallel to the frontage lot line. For measuring building width on a lot with a curved or irregular lot line, see Sec. 14.2.14. (Irregular Lot Lines) .

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Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

2. lot width is measured along the frontage lot line. For measuring width of a lot with a curved or irregular lot line, see Sec. 14.2.14. (Irregular Lot Lines) .

E. Exceptions

1. Pedestrian amenity space counts toward required minimum build-to width in accordance with Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) .

2. A building break that includes an open space meeting the design standards for pedestrian amenity space in Sec. 2C.3.3.C.2. (Pedestrian Amenity Space) counts toward the minimum build-to width required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) according to Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) .

3. Where vehicle access is taken through the frontage lot line based on the automobile access package in Sec. 4C.2.1. (Automobile Access Packages) as specified by the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B.) , and providing vehicle access prevents a building from achieving the required build-to width, a reduced build-to width may be allowed. However, the portion of the lot in the build-to zone used for vehicle access shall be no wider than the minimum required drive aisle width plus an additional four feet of width for clearance. See Div. 4C.2. (Automobile Access) .

4. See Sec. 12.3.1. (Build-To Exceptions) .

Building Width
Required Build-to Width
+2’ Min Width
Allowed +2’
Street

F. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent reduction to the total required width of a building occupying the build-to zone may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A reduced minimum build-to width may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

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.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) is to promote the creation of active, human-scale outdoor spaces as an extension of the sidewalk, providing visual interest and vitality to the amenity space as well as the public realm. The pedestrian amenity allowance provides flexibility to building and site design while maintaining standards essential for ensuring all projects contribute to defining a consistent and legible street wall.

B. Applicability

1. Pedestrian amenity allowance standards apply to new construction subject to a pedestrian amenity allowance maximum in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

   • a. Pedestrian amenity allowance standards apply to all portions of a building or structure required to meet the standards of Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) and Sec. 14.2.6.C. (Pedestrian Amenity & Public Amenity-Facing Facades) , and portions of the lot between the building and the frontage lot line for the width of the pedestrian amenity space provided.

C. Standards

Where the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) specifies a pedestrian amenity allowance, pedestrian amenity spaces may be provided as a substitute for a portion of the required build-to width up to the maximum percentage specified, provided they meet the following standards:

1. Meets the standards of Sec. 2C.3.3.C. (Standards) .

2. Pedestrian amenity spaces may be wider than the maximum allowed pedestrian amenity allowance, however, any part of the pedestrian amenity space width that exceeds the allowed pedestrian amenity allowance does not count toward the required building width in the buildto zone.

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Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

3. At least 85 percent of the pedestrian amenity space perimeter shall abut a lot line or a facade meeting the standards of the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) as specified for the abutting frontage lot line. Where the pedestrian amenity space abuts multiple frontage lot lines, the standards specified for the frontage lot line abutting the pedestrian amenity space for the greatest length apply.

Plaza: Paseo:
85% Min 85% Min
Lot Line
Facade
Pedestrian
Pedestrian SpaceAmenity
Amenity
Space
Lot Line
Lot Line
Adjacent
Building
Street
Street
Facade Facade
Facade
Lot Line

D. Measurement

Pedestrian amenity allowance is measured as the cumulative width of pedestrian amenity spaces occupying the build-to zone divided by the required build-to width.

FORMULA
A (Width of Pedestrian Amenity Space
B Counting as Build-to Width)(Required Build-to Width) = Pedestrian Amenity Allowance (%)
Build-to Range
B Pedestrian
A SpaceAmenity
Street

1. Pedestrian amenity space width is measured parallel to the frontage lot line. For measuring pedestrian amenity space width along a curved or irregular lot line, see Sec. 14.2.14. (Irregular Lot Lines) .

2. For measuring the required build-to width, see Sec. 3C.1.3. (Build-To Width) .

3. For a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) .

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Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.1. (Build-To)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent increase in the allowed total width of pedestrian amenity allowance may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from any pedestrian amenity allowance dimensional standard of up to 10 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. A reduced minimum build-to width may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.1.4. (Pedestrian Amenity Allowance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.2. (Parking)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.2. PARKING

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.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Parking Setback) is to minimize the impact of motor vehicle dominated areas on the public realm and to promote a comfortable, safe, engaging, and attractive streetscape with active uses and landscaping along the public realm.

B. Applicability

Parking setback standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or a site modifcation. When parking setback standards apply, the standards apply to any areas of a lot designed and designated for a parking area or motor vehicle use area.

C. Standards

All applicable areas designated for motor vehicle use shall be located at or behind the required parking setback unless specifically stated as an exception in Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

D. Measurement

All parking setbacks are measured perpendicular to the frontage lot line.

1. A primary street parking setback is measured from the minimum primary street setback and continues inward away from the frontage lot line.

2. A side street parking setback is measured from the minimum side street setback and continues inward away from the frontage lot line.

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Sec. 3C.2.1. (Parking Setback) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.2. (Parking)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

3. A special parking setback is measured from the minimum setback associated with a special lot line and continues inward away from the special lot line.

Parking Setback
Primary Street Lot Line
Street
Parking Setback
Special Lot Line
Parking Setback
Side Street Lot Line Street
Park

4. For a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.5. (Parking Setback) .

E. Exceptions

1. A driveway may provide access through a parking setback if:

   • a. The automobile access package specified by the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B.) allows automobile access through the frontage lot line associated with a parking setback, then a driveway may be permitted in the parking setback, and

   • b. The driveway is no wider than the minimum required width. See Div. 4C.2. (Automobile Access) .

2. Motor vehicle use areas dedicated to electric vehicle charging facilities are exempt from this Section (Parking Setback).

F. Relief

1. A reduction in the required parking setback up to 20 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A reduction in the required parking setback may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.2.1. (Parking Setback) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.3. (Landscaping)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.3. LANDSCAPING

Frontage planting area is defined as the area in a frontage yard designated and designed for plants.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Frontage Planting Area) is to support a comfortable, attractive, and contextually appropriate streetscape along the public realm, while promoting infiltration, slowing stormwater runoff, and offsetting urban heat island effect.

B. Applicability

Frontage planting area standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or a site modifcation, on any lot possessing yards abutting a frontage lot line.

C. Standards

1. Each frontage yard shall provide a cumulative area at least the size of the planting area required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. All required planting areas shall meet Sec. 4C.6.4.C.2. (Planting Area) .

3. All provided plants shall meet Sec. 4C.6.4. (Plant Design & Installation) .

D. Measurement

1. Frontage planting area is a percentage calculated as the cumulative planting area located in a frontage yard divided by the total frontage yard area.

2. For frontage yard designation, see Sec. 14.2.16. (Yards) .

3. For a lot affected by a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.6. (Frontage Planting Area) .

E. Exceptions

Where there is less than three feet between the building and frontage lot line, planting area standards are not applicable.

F. Relief

1. Frontage planting area standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. Up to a 20 percent reduction to the total required planting area may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. A reduction in the required planting area may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.3.1. (Frontage Planting Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.3. (Landscaping)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Frontage yard fence & wall is defined as fences, walls, and hedges that are allowed in a frontage yard.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall) is to balance the needs for human-scale activation and visual interest along the public realm, and to provide security and privacy for private ground story uses in a manner appropriate to context.

B. Applicability

Frontage yard fence & wall standards apply to a site modifcation involving construction or installation of fences, walls, or hedges, in a frontage yard.

C. Standards

1. General

• a. Allowed frontage yard fence & wall types are hierarchical. Where a frontage yard fence & wall type with a higher number designator (e.g. Type A2) is allowed by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , all frontage yard fence & wall types having a lower number designator (e.g. Type A1) are also allowed.

• b. No frontage yard fence & wall type with a greater number designator (e.g. Type A4) than the allowed frontage yard fence & wall type (e.g. Type A3) may be located in the frontage yard.

• c. If a required frontage screen includes a wall or fence, then the required fence or wall shall be located in the frontage yard if the wall or fence complies with the allowed frontage yard fence & wall standards specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• d. All fences and walls including their sub-grade elements, such as footings or foundation, shall be located on-site.

• e. All fences and walls provided shall include the necessary gates or openings to comply with the applicable pedestrian access package standards in Sec. 4C.1.1. (Pedestrian Access Packages) .

• f. Pools, ponds, and other bodies of water requiring protective barriers according to Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.6109. (Swimming Pools and Other Bodies of Water - Protective Devices Required) of this Code, are only allowed in a frontage yard where the required protective barrier can be designed to conform with the frontage yard fence & wall standards specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• g. All fences and walls provided shall comply with Sec. 4C.7.3. (Fence/Wall Design & Installation) .

• h. All hedges provided shall comply with Sec. 4C.6.4. (Plant Design & Installation) .

• i. Fences and walls provided within the frontage yard shall not include barbed wire or concertina.

| 3-68

Sec. 3C.3.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

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[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.3. (Landscaping)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. Frontage Yard

For frontage yard designations and their measurement see Sec. 14.2.16. (Yards) .

2. Fence & Wall Height

   • a. Where a public sidewalk is located within five feet of a wall or fence, height is measured vertically from the topmost point of the wall or fence to the adjacent public sidewalk.

Top
Height
Sidewalk

• b. Where no sidewalk exists within five feet of a wall or fence, height is measured vertically from the topmost point of the wall or fence to the fnished grade at the base of the wall or fence on the side that faces outward from the lot.

• c. To measure retaining walls see Sec. 4C.9.2. (Retaining Walls) .

• d. Fence/wall height maximums listed as "Prohibited" allow no fence or wall within the frontage yard.

3. Hedge Height

• a. Hedge height is measured according to Sec. 4C.6.4.D.11. (Height at Maturity) .

• b. Hedge height maximums listed as "Prohibited" allow no hedge within the frontage yard.

4. Opacity

To measure opacity, see Sec. 14.2.13. (Opacity (%)) .

5. Public Access Easement

For a lot with a public access easement, see Sec. 14.2.17.B.7. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall) .

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Sec. 3C.3.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.3. (Landscaping)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

1. Fences and walls located in a frontage yard may integrate outdoor lighting, entry arbors, and other accessory encroaching elements that exceed the maximum fence/wall height specified by the applicable frontage yard fence & wall type, provided all of the following are met:

   • a. The cumulative length of fence or wall that includes encroaching elements is no more than 10 percent of the total fence length located in the frontage yard,

   • b. No individual encroaching element may be wider than six feet, measured along the length of the fence or wall,

   • c. One encroaching element for each 40 feet of fence length may exceed the maximum fence and wall height by up to 40 inches. All other encroaching elements shall only exceed the maximum fence and wall height up to 18 inches.

2. Where a required frontage screen or transition screen includes a fence or wall minimum height requirement that exceeds the maximum height allowed in Paragraph 2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall Types) of Subsection C. (Standards) above, the maximum fence and wall height allowed shall instead be the fence and wall height specified by the required applicable screening standards.

F. Relief

1. A deviation up to 15 percent from any allowed frontage yard fence & wall type dimensional standard may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from any allowed frontage yard fence & wall type standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.3.2. (Frontage Yard Fence & Wall) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.4. TRANSPARENCY SEC. 3C.4.1. TRANSPARENT AREA

Transparent area is defined as the amount of transparent area on a building facade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Transparent Area) is to provide visual interest along the public realm by encouraging visual connections between the public realm and the interior of a building.

B. Applicability

Transparent area standards apply to the following project activities when "transparent area" is required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) : new construction, a major remodel, and an exterior modifcation. When the transparent area standards apply, the standards apply pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) and Sec. 3A.2.2.B.4. (Frontage Applicable Building Depth) .

C. Standards

1. Each applicable facade shall provide at least the minimum transparency specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. Window and door openings meeting the following requirements count toward transparent area:

   • a. No walls, shelving, facade screens, or other interior or exterior visual obstructions shall be located within five feet of any ground story transparent area with the exception of visual obstructions allowed in subparagraph d below.

   • b. Exterior visual obstructions shall not be located within five feet of any upper story transparent area with the exception of visual obstructions allowed in subparagraph d below.

   • c. visual obstructions may be located five feet or greater from a facade area counting toward transparent area.

A B

<5’ >5’
A B Section A Section B

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Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• d. The following visual obstructions may be located less than five feet from facade area counting toward transparent area:

  • i. Windows obscured by interior security gates and window displays may count toward transparent area, provided no more than 25 percent of the transparent area of any individual window is visually obstructed for any individual window counting toward transparent area. For measuring visual obstruction, see Sec. 14.2.13. (Opacity (%)) .

> 25% > 25% < 25% < 25%
Visual Obstruction Visual Obstruction Visual Obstruction Visual Obstruction
Window Display Interior Security Gate Window Display Interior Security Gate

• ii. Windows obscured by fixed exterior facade screens may count toward transparent area, provided no more than 25 percent of the total transparent area is visually obstructed for any individual window opening counting toward transparent area. Percentage of visual obstruction is measured as opacity.

• iii. Transparent area covered by window signs may count toward transparent area provided the window signs are permitted by the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B.) .

  • iv. Areas of transparency may be made temporarily opaque by operable window treatments, such as curtains or blinds.

• e. Distance from transparent area is measured perpendicular to the exterior face of the transparent area.

• f. To be considered transparent, window and door glazing shall meet the following requirements:

Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• g. Muntins, mullions, window sashes, window frames, and door frames, no more than three inches wide may be considered transparent area when contained within a window opening or door opening occupied by a window or glazed door assembly where all included glazing meets the transparent area requirements above.

< 3” > 3”
Door Frame
Window Sash
Glazing
Rail
Window Frame
Trim
Sill
Bulkhead

D. Measurement

1. Ground Story

   • a. Ground story transparency is a percentage, calculated as the sum of all ground story facade area meeting the standards for transparent area divided by the total ground story facade area.

   • b. In calculating ground story transparency, ground story facade area is measured in the following ways:

     • i. Ground story facade area is measured as the above-grade facade area between zero and 12 feet above the top of the finished floor of the ground story.

FORMULA
Sum of All Ground Story
Facade Transparent Area = Ground Story Transparency (%)
Total Ground Story Facade Area
12’ 12’
Ground Story
Facade Area
0’ 0’
Finished Ground Floor

| 3-76

Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• ii. If the ground story height is less than 12 feet, the ground story facade area is measured as the total above-grade portion of a facade between the top of the finished floor of the ground story and the top of the finished floor above. When there is no story above, ground story height is measured to the top of the uppermost surface of the ceiling structure above.

• iii. No portion of a ground story located below fnished grade is included in ground story facade area.

12’
Ground Story
Facade Area
0’
12’
Finished Ground Floor
Ground Story
Facade Area
0’
Finished Grade
Finished Ground Floor

2. Upper Stories

• a. The facade area along each upper story shall meet the required transparency standard. .

• b. Upper story transparency is a percentage, calculated as the sum of all upper story facade area meeting the standards for transparent area divided by the total upper story facade area for each story.

• c. In calculating upper story transparency, the upper story facade area is measured as the portion of a facade area between the top of the finished floor for that story to the top of the finished floor above, regardless of story height. When there is no story above, it is measured to the top of the uppermost surface of the ceiling structure above.

FORMULA
Sum of All Upper Story
Finished Floor Total Upper Story Facade AreaFacade Transparent Area = Upper Story Transparency (%)
Upper Story
Facade Area
Finished Floor

| 3-77

Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

Transparent area standards do not apply to portions of building facades that enclose a parking structure except where parking structures are required to be wrapped by the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B.) .

F. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent reduction from the total required transparent area may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from required transparent area standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-78

Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Active wall spacing is defined as the horizontal distance between widths of ground story facade and foundation wall with window or door openings.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Active Wall Spacing) is to provide visual interest and activation along the public realm by limiting areas without visual or physical connections between the public realm and the interior of a building.

B. Applicability

1. Active wall spacing standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation.

2. Active wall spacing standards apply to the following facades:

   • a. All portions of ground story frontage applicable facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) located between three feet and eight feet from the ground foor elevation measured vertically.

Not Appli cable
8’
Applicable
3’
Not Applicable
Finished Ground Floor

• b. All portions of foundation walls on frontage applicable facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) that are exposed four feet in height or greater above sidewalk grade. If foundation walls are set back more than 10 feet from a sidewalk, exposed height is measured from the lowest elevation of fnished grade within five feet, measured from and perpendicular to the foundation wall.

Finished
Ground Floor 4’
4’ Applicable Not Applicable
Sidewalk

| 3-79

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

C. Standards

1. Active Wall Spacing on Ground Story Facade

Window and door openings meeting Sec. 3C.4.1. (Transparent Area) on ground story facades shall be separated by a distance no greater than the maximum active wall spacing. For exceptions to this standard, see Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

2. Active Wall Spacing on Foundation Wall

Applicable portions of foundation walls shall be no wider than the maximum active wall spacing specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B) . For exceptions to this standard, see Subsection E. (Exceptions) below.

D. Measurement

1. Active Wall Spacing on Ground Story Facade

Active wall spacing is measured horizontally and parallel to the frontage lot line from edge of transparent area to edge of transparent area, and edge of transparent area to edge of ground story facade.

Active Wall Spacing

2. Active Wall Spacing on Foundation Wall

Active wall spacing is measured horizontally for any individual width of applicable foundation wall that does not include transparent area.

Active Wall Spacing

| 3-80

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

1. Inapplicable Facades

• a. Active wall spacing standards do not apply to upper story facades.

• b. Active wall spacing standards do not apply to portions of building facades enclosing a parking structure except where parking structures are required to be wrapped or fenestrated by the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B).

2. Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives

• a. Ground story facades that exceed the maximum allowed active wall spacing may apply one or more ground story inactive wall treatment alternatives to the applicable facade area between door or window openings and increase the active wall spacing by 50 percent per Paragraph 3. (Ground Story Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives) below.

• b. Facades designed with foundation walls that exceed the maximum allowed active wall spacing may apply one or more foundation inactive wall treatment alternatives to the facade area between active foundation walls and double the allowed active wall spacing per Paragraph 4. (Foundation Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives) below.

• c. Plants provided to meet the requirements of Paragraph 3. (Ground Story Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives) and Paragraph 4. (Foundation Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives) below shall also comply with Div. 4C.6. (Plants) .

| 3-81

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

3. Ground Story Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives

Permanent design improvements located between segments of ground story active wall and the public realm, designed to improve visual interest and the pedestrian experience.

a. Small Trees

Small trees planted between a ground story facade with no window or door openings and the public realm.

b. Large Trees

large trees planted between a ground story facade with no window or door openings and the public realm.

A
B C
For measurement
DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
see Sec. 3C.4.2.E.5.

A
B C
For measurement
see Sec. 3C.4.2.E.5.

DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

| 3-82

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

c. Living Wall

A permanently fixed assembly located between a ground story facade with no window or door openings and the public realm that supports plants, their growing medium, and irrigation.

A

DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

d. Colonnade

A sequence of columns located between a ground story facade with no window or door openings and the public realm, providing an exterior occupiable space along the inactive wall.

A
B C

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

4. Foundation Inactive Wall Treatment Alternatives

Permanent design improvements located between exposed foundation walls and the public realm, designed to improve visual interest and the pedestrian experience.

a. Foundation Planting

Screening plants located between a foundation wall with no window or door openings and the public realm.

b. Planter

Permanent structure containing plants and their growing medium located between a foundation wall with no window or door openings and the public realm.

A

A
C
B

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

| 3-84

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

c. Green wall

A structure permanently attached to a foundation wall with no window or door openings that supports climbing plants.

A

See Div. 4C.6. (Plants) for additional standards.

d. Pedestrian Access

Stairs or ramps providing pedestrian access to a street- facing entrance located between a foundation wall with no window or door openings and the public realm.

A
B

See Div. 4C.1. (Pedestrian Access) for additional standards.

| 3-85

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

e. Seating

A permanent structure designed and intended for public seating located between a foundation wall with no window or door openings and the public realm.

A
C
B
B

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

5. Inactive Wall Treatment Measurement

a. Treatment Width

Minimum treatment width percentage is calculated as the cumulative width of the provided inactive wall treatments divided by the total width of the provided active wall spacing.

b. Treatment Area

Minimum treatment area percentage is calculated as the cumulative area of the provided inactive wall treatments divided by the total applicable facade area within the provided active wall spacing.

c. Tree type

Tree type is measured as small or large species according to Sec. 4C.6.4.C.3.a.ii. (Tree Types) .

d. Plant type

Plant type is measured as screening plants, groundcover, and turf plants, hedges, living walls, or climbing plants according to Sec. 4C.6.4. (Plant Design & Installation) .

e. Plant Coverage

Minimum plant coverage is measured according to Sec. 4C.6.4.D.2. (Plant Coverage) .

f. Planting Frequency

Planting frequency is a ratio of the minimum number of plants required over a specified width of active wall spacing. A minimum of one plant of the required plant type shall be provided regardless of the width of inactive wall treatment.

g. Column Frequency

Minimum column frequency is a ratio of the minimum number of columns required over a specified width of treated inactive wall treatment. A minimum of two columns shall be provided regardless of the inactive wall treatment width.

h. Planting Area Depth

Minimum planting area depth is measured as the horizontal dimension of growing medium at the narrowest point, measured perpendicular to the applicable street lot line. The planting area shall be open to the sky for at least the required planting area depth.

i. Clear Depth

Minimum clear depth is measured as the horizontal dimension of the occupiable portion of an architectural element at the narrowest point.

| 3-87

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.4. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

j. Height Above Sidewalk

• i. Height above sidewalk is measured vertically from adjacent sidewalk grade to the topmost point of the inactive wall treatment.

• ii. For foundation walls located more than 10 feet from a sidewalk, maximum height above sidewalk is measured from the lowest elevation of fnished grade within five feet, measured from and perpendicular to the foundation wall, to the topmost point of the inactive wall treatment.

k. Foundation Wall Reveal

Foundation wall reveal is measured vertically from the top of an inactive wall treatment to the ground foor elevation along the entire treated portion of an inactive foundation wall.

l. Seat Depth

Minimum seat depth is measured as the narrowest horizontal dimension of the area designed for public seating.

m. Enclosure

Maximum enclosure is measured according to Sec. 14.2.4. (Enclosure) .

F. Relief

1. Deviation from inactive wall treatment standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. An increase in allowed active wall spacing up to 20 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. An increase in allowed active wall spacing and inactive wall treatment standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-88

Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.5. ENTRANCES

Street-facing entrance is defined as a door providing access from the public realm to the interior of a building.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Street-Facing Entrance) is to provide visual interest along the public realm, orient buildings to the public realm, and promote greater use and activation of the public sidewalk by limiting the width of frontage without physical connections between the public realm and the interior of a building.

B. Applicability

Street-facing entrance standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation. When the street-facing entrance standards apply, the standards apply to those portions of buildings and structures where frontage standards apply pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B. (Applicable Components of Lots, Buildings, & Structures) .

C. Standards

1. General

• a. Where a street-facing entrance is required by the applied Frontage District, street-facing entrances shall be provided at a rate based on the maximum entrance spacing specified in the applied Frontage District. A minimum of one street-facing entrance shall always be provided.

• b. To qualify as a street-facing entrance, building entrances shall meet the following standards:

  • i. Be located on the ground story facade.

  • ii. Provide both ingress and egress pedestrian access to the ground story of the building.

  • iii. Remain operable at all times. Access may be controlled and limited to residents or tenants.

  • iv. Provide no access directly to motor vehicle use areas, utility areas or fire stairs.

| 3-89

Sec. 3C.5.1. (Street-Facing Entrance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

c. &
a Ra's|-%
a
; Saisie ,
J]
= y
4

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• ii. Maximum entrance spacing is the greatest horizontal distance from edge of door to edge of door, and edge of door to edge of building, measured parallel to the frontage lot line.

b. Standards

• i. Street-facing entrances shall not be separated by a distance greater than the maximum allowed entrance spacing.

• ii. The maximum entrance spacing requirements shall be met for each building individually, but are not applicable to adjacent or abutting buildings.

• iii. When the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) specifies that a street-facing entrance is 'not required' but does specify a maximum entrance spacing, a street-facing entrance shall only be required if the building width along the indicated frontage lot line is greater than the specified entrance spacing. Street-facing entrances shall then be required in accordance with the maximum entrance spacing requirement specified.

Entrance
(max)Spacing
SpacingNo Entrance Entrance
(max)Spacing
Entrance
(max)Spacing
Street

D. Measurement

Street-facing entrance is measured as "provided" or "not provided" based on the presence of entrances meeting Sec. 3C.5.1.C. (Standards) .

E. Relief

1. Deviation from street-facing entrance standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. An increase in entrance spacing up to 20 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from street-facing entrance and entrance spacing standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-91

Sec. 3C.5.1. (Street-Facing Entrance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Entry features are improved design standards applied to each entrance along the public realm.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Entry Feature) is to provide architectural embellishment of entrances that promote inconspicuous wayfinding in the public realm, provide greater shelter and comfort to users, promote visual interest along the public realm, and highlight the connection between the public and private realm to improve walkability.

B. Applicability

Entry feature standards apply to all required street-facing entrances where entry features are required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

C. Standards

1. General

• a. Each required street-facing entrance shall include an entry feature that meet the standards for one of the allowed entry feature options specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• b. Required entry features shall abut and provide direct access to a street-facing entrance.

• c. Required entry features shall provide direct access from the public realm associated with the frontage lot line.

• d. For building setback encroachment regulations, see Sec. 2C.2.2.E. (Exceptions) .

• e. For encroachments into the public right-of-way, see Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.32 (Encroachments into the Public Right-of-Way) of this Code.

• f. In complying with entry feature standards, outdoor spaces such as landings and yards required by an entry feature count as occupiable space.

| 3-92

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

2. Entry Feature Options

Packages of design standards applied to each entrance along the public realm.

a. Porch

A wide, raised platform, projecting in front of a street- facing entrance, that is entirely covered but not enclosed.

b. Raised Entry

A raised platform accessed from an exterior staircase, providing covered access to a street-facing entrance.

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

c. Forecourt

A yard screened with a short wall, fence or hedge that provides significant privacy for tenants located on the ground story, near sidewalk grade.

C
B A

d. River Yard

A yard located between a building and a river trail with direct pedestrian access from inside the building to the river trail.

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

e. Recessed Entry

A space set behind the building face plane providing sheltered access to a street-facing entrance.

C
B A

f. Covered Entry

A space that provides sheltered access to an at-grade street-facing entrance with an overhead projecting structure.

A
B

For encroachments into the public right-of-way, see Chapter IX. (Building Regulations), Sec. 91.32. (Encroachments into the Public Right-of-Way) of this Code.

| 3-95

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

g. Storefront Bay

A facade area with a high level of contiguous transparency accentuating an at-grade street-facing entrance.

D
A
C
B

h. Market Stall

A facade area equipped with an overhead door or operable facade that is open to the public realm during hours of operation.

A
C
B

For measurement see Sec. 3C.5.2.D.

DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A market stall does not count toward transparency unless it meets the standards for transparent area when shut.

| 3-96

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. General

• a. Entry feature is measured as "provided" or "not provided" for each required street-facing entrance based on whether the design of a street-facing entrance meets the standards of an allowed entry feature specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• b. In complying with entry feature standards, outdoor spaces such as landings and yards required by an entry feature count as occupiable space.

2. Clear Depth

Clear depth is measured as the shallowest horizontal dimension of the occupiable space immediately abutting or surrounding each required street-facing entrance, measured perpendicular to the applicable building facade to the interior of the occupiable space.

3. Clear Width

Clear width is measured as the narrowest horizontal dimension of the occupiable space immediately abutting or surrounding each required street-facing entrance, measured parallel to the applicable street lot line.

4. Clear Height

• a. Clear height is measured vertically at the shortest point between the fnished foor elevation or the fnished grade of the occupiable space immediately abutting or surrounding each required street-facing entrance to the bottom of the surface of any solid overhead structure creating covered space within the occupiable space.

• b. Where a minimum clear height is specified as 'open to sky', the occupiable space immediately abutting each required street-facing entrance shall be uncovered.

5. Covered Entrance

• a. When required as part of an entry feature, a canopy, roof or other sheltering structure, the covered entrance shall cover the occupiable exterior area immediately abutting the associated street-facing entrance.

• b. The minimum depth of the covered area shall be the clear height of the covered area divided by three.

| 3-97

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• c. The minimum width of the covered area shall be the clear height of the covered area divided by two.

A = Clear Height
A
Depth
(min)
Width Depth
(min) (min) Width
(min)
A
A
3
A
2 3
A
2
A

6. Covered Area

Covered area is measured as the occupiable space of an entry feature that is covered by a canopy, roof or other sheltering structure, divided by the total occupiable entry feature area.

7. Finished Floor Elevation

Finished foor elevation is measured from the average sidewalk grade along the adjacent sidewalk to the top of the finished floor surface or ground surface of the entry feature. Where no sidewalk exists within 10 feet of the entry feature, fnished foor elevation is measured perpendicular from the average fnished grade within five feet of the entry feature, to the entry feature area.

8. Transparency

• a. Transparency is the percentage of area meeting the transparent area standards of Sec. 3C.4.1.C. (Standards) provided for each street-facing entrance, divided by the required transparent area.

• b. Required transparent area is calculated by multiplying the specified transparent area height by transparent area width. For the measurement of ground story transparency, see Sec. 3C.4.1.D.1. (Ground Story) .

9. Transparent Area Height

Transparent area height is measured vertically from the top of the finished floor of the ground story to the shortest height of the transparent area provided.

10. Transparent Area Width

Transparent area width is measured horizontally from the outer edges of the transparent area provided along the narrowest width.

| 3-98

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.5. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

11. Enclosure

For the measurement of enclosure, see Sec. 14.2.4. (Enclosure) .

12. Fence or Wall Height

Fence or wall height is measured according to Sec. 3C.3.2.D.2. (Fence & Wall Height) .

E. Relief

1. A deviation from entry feature dimensional standard up to 15 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. Deviation from any entry feature standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-99

Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.6. (Ground Story)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3C.6. GROUND STORY

Ground story height is defined as the floor-to-floor height of the story of a building having its fnished foor elevation nearest to the fnished grade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Ground Story Height) is to promote active uses that are directly connected to the public realm, and ensure high-quality ground story spaces that are adaptable and appropriate to their context.

B. Applicability

Ground story height standards apply to new construction. When the ground story height standards apply, the standards apply to all portions of the ground story, within the first 15 feet of a facade of a new building or structure, pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) .

C. Standards

All occupiable space located in applicable portions of the ground story shall have floor-to-floor height of no less than the ground story height minimum.

D. Measurement

1. Ground story height is measured vertically from the top of the finished ground story to the top of the finished floor above.

2. Where no story exists above, ground story height is the shortest vertical distance from the top of the ground foor elevation to the top of the ceiling or roof structure above.

3. For determining the ground story, see Sec. 14.2.10.A. (Ground Story) .

E. Relief

1. A reduction in required ground story height up to one foot may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. Deviation from ground story height standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-100

Sec. 3C.6.1. (Ground Story Height) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.6. (Ground Story)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Ground floor elevation is defined as the finished floor height associated with the story of a building having its fnished foor elevation nearest to the fnished grade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Ground Floor Elevation) is to promote high-quality ground story spaces with direct connection and visual interplay with the public realm.

B. Applicability

1. Ground foor elevation standards apply to new construction subject to the following:

   • a. For structures located less than 20 feet from the frontage lot line, all portions of the ground story located within the first 15 feet of a frontage applicable facade pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) , measured inward and perpendicular to the frontage lot line, shall comply with ground foor elevation standards.

Ground Floor Elevation
Standards Don’t Apply
> 20’ Ground Floor ElevationStandards Apply
<20’
Street Street

C. Standards

1. All occupiable space located in applicable portions of the ground story shall have a ground foor elevation no higher than the maximum ground foor elevation specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. All occupiable space located in applicable portions of the ground story shall have a ground foor elevation no lower than the minimum ground foor elevation specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

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Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.6. (Ground Story)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. Where a building is located greater than 10 feet from a public sidewalk, ground story height is measured vertically from the average fnished grade within five feet of the frontage lot line facing building perimeter to the fnished foor elevation of the ground story.

2. Where a building is located 10 feet or less from a public sidewalk, ground foor elevation is measured vertically from the average sidewalk grade to the fnished foor elevation of the ground story. Average sidewalk grade is measured as the average of the highest and lowest sidewalk elevation for the portion of the sidewalk located in front of the building.

Ground Floor Elevation Highest Grade
Average
Grade
Lowest Grade

3. Ground foor elevation shall be measured independently for different modules of the building width. The ground foor elevation for each module shall be measured from either average sidewalk grade for the portion of the sidewalk in front of the module or from average fnished grade within five feet of the frontage lot line facing building perimeter based on the distance of the building module from a public sidewalk according to Paragraph 1. and Paragraph 2. above.

es of the building width. The ground foor elevation for each module shall be measured from either average sidewalk grade for the portion of the sidewalk in front of the module or from average fnished grade within five feet of the frontage lot line facing building perimeter based on the distance of the building module from a public sidewalk according to Paragraph 1. and Paragraph 2. above.

• a. For sloped lots, average elevation along the sidewalk shall be measured individually for each module and calculated as the average of the highest and lowest sidewalk elevation for the portion of the sidewalk located in front of the building module.

Module 2
Module 1
Highest Grade
Module 2
Avg. Sidewalk Elevation Highest GradeModule 1 Avg. Sidewalk
[Module 1] Lowest Grade Elevation
Module 2 [Module 2]
Lowest Grade
Module 1

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Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3C.6. (Ground Story)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

Ground foor elevation standards do not apply to structures located 20 feet or greater from the frontage lot line.

F. Relief

1. A deviation in minimum or maximum ground foor elevation up to 10 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. Deviation from ground foor elevation standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Contents

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A