Part 3D — CHARACTER FRONTAGE RULES

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

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Character Frontage Rules

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.1. BUILD-TO

See Div. 3C.1. (Build-To) .

DIv. 3D.2. PARKING

See Div. 3C.2. (Parking) .

DIv. 3D.3. LANDSCAPING

See Div. 3C.3. (Landscaping) .

DIv. 3D.4. GROUND FLOOR ELEVATION

See Sec. 3C.6.2. (Ground Floor Elevation) .

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Character Frontage Rules Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.5. (Story Height)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.5. STORY HEIGHT

For the intent, applicability, standards, measurement, and relief of ground story height see Sec. 3C.6.1. (Ground Story Height) .

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Sec. 3D.5.1. (Ground Story Height) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.5. (Story Height)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Upper story height is defined as the floor-to-floor height of any story of a building located above the ground story.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Upper Story Height) is to ensure upper story spaces and their facades are scaled and proportioned to contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

1. Upper story height standards apply to new construction of multi-story buildings or structures. When upper story height standards apply, the standards apply to each story located above the ground story and all build-to applicable stories specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

C. Standards

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

D. Measurement

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

2. Where no story exists above an upper story, upper story height is the shortest vertical distance from the top of the finished floor to the top of the ceiling or roof structure above.

E. Exceptions

Portions of upper stories located beyond the first 15 feet of a frontage applicable facade, measured inward and perpendicular to the facade are not required to meet upper story height standards.

F. Relief

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

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

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Sec. 3D.5.2. (Upper Story Height) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

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[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• ii. At least one of the following articulating elements shall be applied along the top of the base layer, creating a transition between the base and middle layers:

  • a) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.1. (Material Change) ;

  • b) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course) ; or

  • c) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.3. (Shopfront Cornice) .

• iii. The articulating element shall extend for the full width of the building and be located no higher than the top of the uppermost story included in the layer.

b. Middle

• i. The middle building layer shall include at least twice as many contiguous stories than the base building layer, starting at the top of the base layer and continuing upward.

• ii. At least one of the following articulating elements shall be applied along the top of the middle layer, creating a transition between the middle and top layers:

  • a) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.1. (Material Change) ;or

  • b) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course) .

• iii. The articulating element shall extend for the full width of the building and be located no higher than the top of the uppermost story included in the layer.

c. Top

• i. The top building layer shall include at least one story and shall not include more stories than the base building layer.

• ii. All stories located in the top building layer shall be contiguous and include, at minimum, all stories between the top of the middle layer and the top of the highest of the build-to applicable stories specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• iii. A roofine cornice articulating element shall be applied to the top building layer when the top building layer is the topmost story of the building or the topmost story before a street step-back. See Sec. 3D.6.5.C.4. (Roofline Cornice) .

• iv. The roofine cornice shall extend for the full width of the building and be located along the top of the topmost story included in the building layer.

• v. When the top building layer does not include the topmost story of the building or the topmost story before a street step-back, at least one of the following articulating elements shall be applied along the top of the top layer, creating a transition between the top building layer and any story above:

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Sec. 3D.6.1. (Base, Middle & Top Articulation) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• a) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.1. (Material Change) ; or

• b) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course) .

• vi. The articulating element shall extend for the full width of the building and be located along the top of the topmost story included in the building layer.

D. Measurement

For measurement of stories see Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories) .

E. Exceptions

1. Where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) requires a street step-back depth of 10 feet or greater, the top building layer may terminate at the topmost story below the street step-back. No articulating element is required above the top building layer.

2. When a building is less than five stories, the standards of this Section (Base, Middle & Top Articulation) do not apply, and the standards of Sec. 3D.6.2. (Base-Top Articulation) apply.

F. Relief

1. Base, middle & top articulation standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. A deviation from number of stories in building layers of one story may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any base, middle & top articulation standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.6.1. (Base, Middle & Top Articulation) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

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[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

a. Base

• i. The base building layer shall include between one and three contiguous stories starting with the ground story and continuing upward.

• ii. At least one of the following articulating elements shall be applied along the top of the base layer, creating a transition between the base and top layers:

  • a) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.1. (Material Change) ;

  • b) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course) ; or

  • c) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.3. (Shopfront Cornice) .

• iii. The articulating element shall extend for the full width of the facade and be located no higher than the top of the uppermost story included in the layer.

b. Top

• i. The top building layer shall include at least twice as many stories as the base building layer, and include all remaining above-grade stories not included in the base building layer or include all remaining above-grade stories up to a street step-back of no less than 15 feet in depth. If the building is less than three stories, or less than three stories without a street step-back of at least 15 feet in depth, the top layer may be composed of one story regardless of the height of the base building layer.

• ii. A roofine cornice articulating element shall be applied to the top building layer that is the topmost story of the building or the topmost story before a street step-back. See Sec. 3D.6.5.C.4. (Roofline Cornice) .

• iii. The roofine cornice shall extend for the full width of the facade and be located along the top of the topmost story included in the building layer.

• iv. When the top building layer does not include the topmost story of the building or the topmost story before a street step-back, at least one of the following articulating elements shall be applied along the top of the top layer, creating a transition between the top building layer and any story above:

  • a) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.1. (Material Change) ; or

  • b) Sec. 3D.6.5.C.2. (Belt Course) .

• v. The articulating element shall extend for the full width of the building and be located along the top of the topmost story included in the building layer.

D. Measurement

For measurement of stories see Sec. 2C.4.3. (Height in Stories) .

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Sec. 3D.6.2. (Base-Top Articulation) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

Where the applied Form District (Part 2B.) requires a street step-back depth of 10 feet or greater, the top building layer may terminate at the topmost story below the street step-back. No articulating element is required above the top building layer.

F. Relief

1. Base-top articulation standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. A deviation from number of stories in building layers of one story may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any base-top articulation standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.6.2. (Base-Top Articulation) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Horizontal band articulation is a continuous band of material running horizontally across a facade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Horizontal Band Articulation) is to separate and align windows on a building facade in a way that contributes to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Horizontal band articulation standards apply to new construction or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) requires horizontal band articulations on facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) .

C. Standards

Horizontal band articulation shall meet the following standards:

1. Be no less than eight inches in height,

2. Extend for the full width of the facade, interrupted only by required articulating elements or architectural features. Architectural features that interrupt either required vertical band articulation or required horizontal band articulation shall cover cumulatively no more than 30 percent of the total facade area. A maximum of five architectural features that interrupt required vertical band articulation or horizontal band articulation are allowed on the facade area of any individual building width.

D. Measurement

1. Horizontal band articulation height is measured vertically from the lowest point to the highest point of a horizontal band articulation meeting the standards above.

2. The facade area covered by an architectural feature that interrupts horizontal band articulation or vertical band articulation is measured as the area of the smallest rectangle that fully circumscribes the architectural feature.

E. Relief

1. Horizontal band articulation standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. A deviation from horizontal band articulation dimensional standards up to 15 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any horizontal band articulation standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.6.3. (Horizontal Band Articulation) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Vertical band articulation is a continuous band of material running vertically up a facade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Vertical Band Articulation) is to separate and align windows on a building facade in a way that contributes to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

vertical band articulation standards apply to new construction or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div 3B.9.) requires vertical band articulations on facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) .

C. Standards

vertical band articulation shall meet the following standards:

1. Be no less than eight inches in width, and

2. Extend uninterrupted for the full height of all build-to applicable stories, only interrupted by horizontal band articulation, required articulating elements or architectural features. Architectural features that interrupt either required vertical band articulation or required horizontal band articulation shall cover cumulatively no more than 30 percent of the total facade area. A maximum of five architectural features that interrupt required vertical band articulation or required horizontal band articulation are allowed on the facade of any individual building width.

D. Spacing

1. vertical band articulation shall be applied across the full width of a facade separated by no more than the maximum spacing and no less than the minimum spacing specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. vertical band articulation shall also be located at each corner of a building facade.

E. Measurement

1. vertical band articulation width is measured parallel to the applicable facade and horizontally from one end of a vertical band meeting the standards above to the opposite end.

2. vertical band articulation spacing is measured horizontally and perpendicular to the applicable building facade from edge of vertical band to edge of vertical band.

3. The facade area covered by an architectural feature that interrupts horizontal band articulation or vertical band articulation is measured as the area of the smallest rectangle that fully circumscribes the architectural feature.

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Sec. 3D.6.4. (Vertical Band Articulation) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

F. Relief

1. vertical band articulation standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. A deviation from vertical band articulation dimensional standards up to 15 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any vertical band articulation standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.6.4. (Vertical Band Articulation) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Articulating elements are permanent architectural details used to embellish a facade design to accentuate an articulation technique or facade composition.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Articulating Elements) is to provide visual interest to the public realm and break up a building facade with visually separate building layers in a way that contributes to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Articulating element standards apply to new construction or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) requires articulating elements on facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3 (Frontage Applicable Facades) .

C. Articulating Element Options

1. Material Change

a. Standards

• i. The principal exterior material applied to the building layer shall be different from the principal siding treatment applied to the abutting building layers.

• ii. The principal exterior material shall be limited to those allowed by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• iii. One of the following architectural details must be provided between building layers applying the material change articulating element:

  • a) A belt course located at the transition from one principal exterior material to the next. See Paragraph 2. (Belt Course) below; or

  • b) The building layer applying a material change articulating element shall be recessed or project from the abutting building layers at least three inches.

b. Measurement

• i. In measuring material change, principal exterior materials are considered different if they are entirely different materials or products having the same base material where the unit size or finish surface texture is visibly contrasting.

• ii. Recessed building layers are measured horizontally from and perpendicular to the immediately surrounding facade to the outermost point of the recessed building layer facade.

• iii. Projecting building layers are measured horizontally and perpendicular from the immediately surrounding facade to the innermost point of the projecting building layer facade.

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Sec. 3D.6.5. (Articulating Elements) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

2. Belt Course

A horizontal course projecting beyond the face of the surrounding building facade often shaped to mark a division in the facade wall.

a. Standards

A belt course shall meet the following standards:

• i. Extend uninterrupted for the full width of the building layer.

• ii. Have a consistent profile across the width of the building.

• iii. Project a minimum of two inches from the immediately surrounding facade for some portion of the top two inches and the bottom two inches of the belt course profile,

• iv. Have a height of no less than 12 inches if located on the first story. An additional two inches in height are required for each story that the belt course is located about the first story. The greatest required minimum height is 48 inches.

b. Measurement

• i. Belt course height is measured vertically from the lowest point to the highest point of the belt course profile meeting the standards in subparagraph a above.

• ii. Projection is measured perpendicularly from the immediately surrounding facade to the outermost point of a belt course meeting the standards in the subparagraph a above.

3. Shopfront Cornice

A continuous molded projection located above a series of display windows on the ground story facade.

a. Standards

A shopfront cornice shall meet the following standards:

• i. Extend uninterrupted for the width of the building layer.

• ii. Project a minimum of four inches from the immediately surrounding facade for some portion of the top four inches and the bottom four inches of the cornice profile.

• iii. Have a height of no less than 12 inches.

b. Measurement

• i. Shopfront cornice height is measured vertically from the lowest point to the highest point of the cornice profile meeting the standards in subparagraph a above.

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Sec. 3D.6.5. (Articulating Elements) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.6. (Articulation)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• ii. Projection is measured perpendicularly from the immediately surrounding facade horizontally to the outermost point of a shopfront cornice meeting the standards in the subparagraph a above.

4. Roofline Cornice

A continuous molded projection that crowns a wall, often as part of a parapet.

a. Standards

A roofine cornice shall meet the following standards:

• i. Extend uninterrupted for the full width of the building layer.

• ii. Project a minimum of four inches from the immediately surrounding facade for some portion of the top four inches of the cornice profile if located on the first, second or third stories. An additional two inches of projection are required for each story the roofine cornice is located above the third story. A minimum projection of at least 36 inches is required.

• iii. Have a height of no less than 12 inches if located on the first, second or third story. An additional two inches in height are required for each story the roofine cornice is located above the third story. A minimum height of at least 48 inches is required.

b. Measurement

• i. Roofine cornice height is measured vertically from the lowest point to the highest point of the cornice profile meeting the standards above.

• ii. Projection is measured perpendicularly from the immediately surrounding facade horizontally to the outermost point of a roofine cornice meeting the standards in the subparagraph a above.

D. Measurement

Articulating elements are measured as "provided" or "not provided" based on whether the applicable building layer facade applies an articulating element meeting the standards above.

E. Relief

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

2. A deviation from articulating elements dimensional standards up to 10 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any articulating elements standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.6.5. (Articulating Elements) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.7. (Features)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.7. FEATURES

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Restricted Features) is to ensure facades are built in a way that contributes to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts by limiting the use of architectural features that are inappropriate to the historic or desired context.

B. Applicability

This Section (Restricted Features) applies to new construction or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Part 3B.) restricts features on any facade pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) .

C. Standards

Where the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) lists a feature as "prohibited", no applicable facade located on a build-to applicable story specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) may include any variety of listed feature.

D. Projecting Balcony

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 area of the story immediately below. Balconies include protective barriers such as railings or parapets and may be covered or uncovered.

1. Standards

Where the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) lists projecting balcony as "prohibited":

• a. No feature meeting the definition for projecting balcony above may be included on an applicable facade.

• b. Roof terraces that meet the definition of balcony may be allowed provided they are uncovered and do not project beyond the story immediately below.

2. Measurement

Projecting balconies are identified as present or absent based on whether an applicable facade includes a projecting balcony as described above.

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Sec. 3D.7.1. (Restricted Features) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.7. (Features)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Relief

1. Deviation from "restricted features" standards may be met through alternative compliance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. Deviation from any "restricted features" standards may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

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Sec. 3D.7.1. (Restricted Features) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.8. ENTRANCES

For the intent, applicability, standards, measurement, and relief of street-facing entrance see Sec. 3C.5.1. (Street-Facing Entrance) .

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Sec. 3D.8.1. (Street-Facing Entrance) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

For the intent, applicability, standards, measurement, and relief of entry features see Sec. 3C.5.2. (Entry Feature) .

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Sec. 3D.8.2. (Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Focal entry feature are improved design standards applied to the primary entrance along the public realm.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Focal Entry Feature) is to establish a hierarchy of entrances on a building facade where a focal entry feature is the visually dominant entrance supported by secondary entrances designed with entry features.

B. Applicability

Focal entry feature standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation, when the applied Character Frontage District (Part 3B.) requires a focal entry feature. When the focal entry feature standards apply, the focal entry feature standards apply to ground story, frontage lot line facing facades.

C. Standards

1. General

• a. Each building width shall provide at least the minimum number of focal entry features specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

• b. Each required focal entry feature shall meet the standards for one of the focal entry feature options. See Sec. 3D.8.1.C.2. (Focal Entry Feature Options) .

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

• d. Required focal entry features shall provide direct access to the public realm associated with the frontage lot line.

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

• f. 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.

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Sec. 3D.8.3. (Focal Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

2. Focal Entry Feature Options

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

a. Archway

A curved symmetrical architectural detail spanning an opening to an exterior space, set behind the primary facade plane, providing sheltered access to a streetfacing entrance.

b. Architrave

A decorative horizontal band above and connected to vertical bands framing an opening to an exterior space, set behind the primary facade plane, providing sheltered access to a street-facing entrance.

Sec. 3D.8.3. (Focal Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

c. Canopy

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

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.

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Sec. 3D.8.3. (Focal Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.8. (Entrances)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

See Sec. 3C.5.2.D. (Measurement) .

E. Relief

1. Deviation from focal entry feature option standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

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

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

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Sec. 3D.8.3. (Focal Entry Feature) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.9. TRANSPARENCY

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Ground Story) is to ensure projects are designed with ground story windows that contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or district.

B. Applicability

Ground story transparency standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) requires ground story transparency on facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) located on the ground story and pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.4. (Frontage Applicable Building Depth) .

C. Standards

1. General

a. Standards

• i. Frontage applicable facades located on the ground story shall provide no less than the minimum transparency specified in the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

• ii. Frontage applicable facades located on the ground story shall provide no more than the maximum transparency specified in the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

iii. All transparent area shall meet the standards of Sec. 3C.4.1.C. (Standards) .

b. Measurement

For transparent area measurement, see Sec. 3C.4.1.D. (Measurement) .

2. Active Wall Spacing

See Sec. 3C.4.2. (Active Wall Spacing) .

3. Window Recession

The depth that a window is set back from the surrounding facade.

a. Standards

All windows on applicable facades shall be recessed at a minimum depth as specified in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

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Sec. 3D.9.1. (Ground Story) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

b. Measurement

Window recession depth is measured inward from the immediately surrounding facade surface, exclusive of trim or accessory projecting architectural details, to the outermost element of the window assembly.

4. Bulkhead

A wall located beneath a display window on the ground story facade that elevates a window above the exterior fnished grade and the interior finished floor surface.

a. Standards

• i. When listed as "required" in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , all ground story window openings located on applicable facades shall be located between 18 and 30 inches above the finished floor of the ground story.

• ii. Ground story window openings located entirely above another ground story window may be located greater than 30 inches from the ground story finished floor provided that no portion of the opening extends beyond the width of the lower window opening.

Greater than 30”
18” - 30”

b. Measurement

Bulkheads are measured as "provided" or "not provided" based on the compliance of all applicable windows with the standards above.

5. Symmetrical Lite Pattern

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.

a. Standards

When listed as “required" in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , all windows provided on applicable facades shall meet the following standards:

• i. Divided-lite and simulated divided-lite windows shall have a composition of muntins or grills that display reflective symmetry.

• ii. Operable windows shall have sashes that are reflectively symmetrical.

| 3-129

Sec. 3D.9.1. (Ground Story) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• iii. Window assemblies sharing a window opening shall be composed in a way that reflective symmetry is displayed over the entirety of the window opening.

b. Measurement

In meeting symmetrical lite pattern standards, if a vertical line can be drawn through the window opening, and the pattern and shape on both sides of the line appear approximately identical, the window or windows are considered in compliance with the symmetrical lite pattern standard.

Line of Symmetry Line of Symmetry

6. Horizontal Sliding Windows

a. Standards

When listed as "prohibited" in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , windows provided on applicable facades shall not include sashes that operate left to right or right to left.

b. Measurement

Horizontal sliding windows are identified as either present or absent.

7. Vinyl Windows

a. Standards

• i. When listed as "prohibited" in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , window assemblies provided on applicable facades shall not contain frames, sashes, rails, styles, muntins, mullions, or grills with a vinyl exterior finish.

• ii. Other accessory window assembly components may be finished with vinyl products.

b. Measurement

vinyl windows are identified as either present or absent.

D. Exceptions

Ground story transparency standards do not apply to parking structure facades unless the applied development standards district requires the facade to be wrapped, see Development Standards District (Part 4B.) .

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Sec. 3D.9.1. (Ground Story) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Relief

1. Up to a 15 percent increase to the total allowed ground story transparent area may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from ground story transparency dimensional standard up to 15 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any ground story transparency standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-131

Sec. 3D.9.1. (Ground Story) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Upper Stories) is to ensure projects are designed with upper story windows that contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Upper story standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) requires upper story transparency on facades 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. General

a. Standards

• i. Applicable upper story facades shall provide at least the minimum transparency specified in the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

• ii. Applicable upper story facades shall provide no more than the maximum transparency specified in the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

iii. All transparent area shall meet the standards of Sec. 3C.4.1.C. (Standards) .

b. Measurement

See Sec. 3C.4.1.D.2. (Upper Stories) .

2. Window Recession

See Sec. 3D.9.1.C.3. (Window Recession) .

3. Symmetrical Lite Pattern

See Sec. 3D.9.1.C.5. (Symmetrical Lite Pattern) .

4. Sill

The bottommost horizontal exterior surface of a window opening including a ledge or other architectural detail that projects from the surrounding building facade.

a. Standards

• i. When required by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) , all windows provided on applicable facades shall include a sill, ledge or comparable architectural detail located at the bottommost exterior surface of a window opening.

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Sec. 3D.9.2. (Upper Stories) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.9. (Transparency)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

• ii. Required sills shall project a minimum of one inch beyond the immediately surrounding building facade.

iii. Required sills shall have a width of no less than the window opening.

b. Measurement

Sills are measured as "provided" or "not provided" based on the compliance of all applicable windows with the standards of subparagraph a above.

5. Horizontal Sliding Windows

See Sec. 3D.9.1.C.6. (Horizontal Sliding Windows) .

6. Vinyl Windows

See Sec. 3D.9.1.C.7. (Vinyl Windows) .

D. Exceptions

Upper story transparency standards do not apply to parking structure facades unless the applied Development Standards District (Part 4B.) requires the facade to be wrapped.

E. Relief

1. Up to a 15 percent increase in the total allowed upper story transparent area may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation up to 15 percent from upper story transparency dimensional standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any upper story transparency standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-133

Sec. 3D.9.2. (Upper Stories) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.10. EXTERIOR MATERIALS

Principal material coverage is defined as the building products used as the primary exterior wall finish materials of the exterior building facade.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Principal Material Coverage) is to visually unify the facade with a dominant material and ensure that building facades are finished with materials that contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Principal material coverage standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation. When the principal material coverage standards apply, the standards apply to facades pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) and any build-to applicable story as specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) , and any portion of the frontage applicable facade located above the last provided story where the number of stories provided for any building is less than the specified build-to applicable stories.

C. Standards

1. General

• a. The total percentage of applicable facade area finished in a primary material shall be no less than the minimum principal material coverage specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

• b. Only exterior material options specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) may be used as a primary material.

• c. Only one primary material may used to meet the principal material coverage standard.

2. Exterior Material Options

• a. For exterior material options standards, see Sec. 3D.10.3. (Exterior Material Options) .

D. Measurement

1. Principal material coverage is calculated for each building width separately.

2. The principal material coverage percentage is the facade area covered in a principal material divided by the total applicable facade area.

3. The principal material coverage is measured as compliant or non-compliant based on whether it meets the standards and definition of one of the allowed exterior material options specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

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Sec. 3D.10.1. (Principal Material Coverage) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

E. Exceptions

Principal material coverage standards do not apply to windows nor door openings.

F. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent reduction to the total required facade area finished in an allowed primary exterior material may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

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

| 3-135

Sec. 3D.10.1. (Principal Material Coverage) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Accessory material coverage is defined as the building products used as an exterior wall finish material to accent or support the principal material.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Accessory Material Coverage) is to visually unify the facade with a consistent material palette and ensure that building facades are finished with materials that contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

1. Accessory material coverage standards shall apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation. When the accessory material coverage standards apply, the standards apply to any facade pursuant to Sec. 3A.2.2.B.3. (Frontage Applicable Facades) and any buildto applicable story as specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3.9.) , and any portion of the frontage applicable facade located above the last provided story where the number of stories provided for any building is less than the specified build-to applicable stories.

2. All exterior materials cumulatively covering between five percent and 30 percent of the total applicable facade area are considered an accessory material and shall comply with all accessory material coverage, exterior material options, and number of accessory material standards.

C. Standards

1. General

• a. The total percentage of applicable facade area finished in an accessory material shall not exceed the maximum accessory material coverage specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

• b. Only exterior material options specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) may be used as an accessory material.

2. Exterior Material Options

For exterior material options standards, see Sec. 3D.10.3. (Exterior Material Options) .

3. Number of Accessory Materials

Individual accessory materials may not exceed the maximum number of accessory materials specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

| 3-136

Sec. 3D.10.2. (Accessory Material Coverage) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. Accessory material coverage is calculated for each building width separately.

2. Accessory material coverage percentage is the facade area covered in the accessory material product divided by the total applicable facade area.

3. Accessory material coverage is measured as compliant or non-compliant based on whether it meets the standards and definition of one of the exterior material options specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

E. Exceptions

Accessory material coverage standards do not apply to windows nor door openings.

F. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent increase in the total allowed facade area finished in a secondary exterior material may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

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

| 3-137

Sec. 3D.10.2. (Accessory Material Coverage) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Exterior material options is defined as building products allowed for use as primary or accessory exterior wall finish material.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section is to ensure that building facades are finished with materials that contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Exterior material options standards apply to all exterior materials provided and shall comply with principal material coverage or accessory material coverage standards as specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) .

C. Standards

1. General

Proposed principal and accessory materials shall meet all standards and definitions of one of the exterior material options specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) to comply with principal material coverage and accessory material coverage standards.

| 3-138

Sec. 3D.10.3. (Exterior Material Options) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

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[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.10. (Exterior Materials)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

D. Measurement

1. The height of individual board, brick, or shingle unit is measured as the greatest dimension from one end of the unit to the opposite end of the unit, measured vertically and based on the proposed installation pattern.

2. The width of individual board, brick, or shingle unit is measured as the greatest dimension from one end of the unit to the opposite end of the unit, measured horizontally and based on the proposed installation pattern.

3. Exposed width is measured as the largest horizontal dimension of a board or shingle unit that is uninterrupted by either, another board or shingle covering the first unit, or a gap or break in the board or shingle unit, for the full height of the unit.

4. Exposed height is measured as the largest vertical dimension of a board or shingle unit that is uninterrupted by either, another board or shingle covering the first unit, or a gap or break in the board or shingle unit, for the full height of the unit.

SHINGLE SIDING (SQUARE) VERTICAL PLANK (BOARD & BATTEN)
Total Width
Total
Total
Width
Height
Exposed
Height
Exposed Exposed
Width Width

5. Gap between board units is measured as the distance between board units at the widest point.

E. Relief

1. Deviation from exterior material option standards may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.1. (Alternative Compliance) .

2. Up to a 10 percent modification to any exterior material option dimensional standard may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any exterior material option standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-144

Sec. 3D.10.3. (Exterior Material Options) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.11. (Roof Design)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

DIv. 3D.11. ROOF DESIGN

Roof form is defined as the shape of the external upper covering of a building, including the frame for supporting the roofing.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Roof Design) is to ensure that building forms contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

1. Roof form standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation when the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) requires a primary roof form on any frontage lot line-facing buildings.

2. A minimum of 70 percent of the total roof area of each applicable building or structure shall meet roof form standards, measured horizontally.

C. Standards

1. General

All building and structures shall have a roof form listed as a roof form option in the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

2. Roof Form Options

a. Flat

A roof subject to the “flat” option shall have a maximum pitch of 2:12 (two inch of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal span) or less. Flat roof forms include roofs with parapets up to six feet in height.

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Sec. 3D.11.1. (Roof Form) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.11. (Roof Design)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

b. Pitched

A roof subject to the “pitched” option shall be composed of two or more sloping planes where all roof planes slope up from the exterior perimeter of the building or structure and connect with another roof plane at a central ridge. All roof planes required to meet this standard shall have pitch between a minimum of 3:12 (three inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal span) and a maximum of 16:12 (16 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal span).

Slope Measurement = A:B
B
A
Typical Max Slope:
Slope 12:12
Min Slope:
3:12

Sloped Plane

D. Measurement

1. Roof pitch is measured by calculating a roof's vertical rise in inches divided by a foot of its horizontal span and is represented as a ratio.

2. Roof form is measured as compliant or non-compliant based on whether it meets the standards and definition of one of the roof form options allowed by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) .

E. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent reduction in the total required roof area having an allowed roof form may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

2. A deviation from roof form dimensional standard up to 10 percent may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

3. Deviation from any roof form standard may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) .

| 3-146

Sec. 3D.11.1. (Roof Form) Last amended by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.11. (Roof Design)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

A. Intent

The intent of the standards of this Section (Roof Materials) is to ensure that a building's roof finishing materials contribute to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

This Section (Roof Materials) applies to new construction, a major remodel, or an exterior modifcation. When roof materials standards apply, the standards apply to all portions of a required primary roof form pursuant to Sec. 3D.11.1. (Roof Form) on any frontage lot line-facing buildings on a lot.

C. Standards

Only roof materials specified by the applied Frontage District (Part 3B.) shall be used to finish an applicable roof.

D. Measurement

Roof materials are measured as compliant or non-compliant based on whether all applicable roofs meet the roof materials standards.

E. Exceptions

Roof material standards do not apply to accessory roof forms.

F. Relief

1. Up to a 10 percent reduction in the total required roof area finished of an allowed roof material may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment) .

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

| 3-147

Sec. 3D.11.2. (Roof Materials) Established by Ord. 188,418, Eff. 01/20/2025, Oper. 01/27/2025

[ FORM - FRONTAGE - STANDARDS ] [ USE - DENSITY ] Div. 3D.11. (Roof Design)

City of Los Angeles Zoning Code Chapter 1A

Roof overhang is defined as the portion of a roof extending beyond a building’s exterior walls.

A. Intent

The intent of the standards in this Section (Roof Overhang) is to ensure that a building's roof design contributes to the established architectural character of surrounding neighborhoods or districts.

B. Applicability

Roof overhang standards apply to new construction, a major remodel, or exterior modifcation when specified by the applied Character Frontage Districts (Div. 3B.9.). Roof overhang standards apply to any portion of a roof subject to Sec. 3D.11.1. (Roof Form).

C. Standards

The roof plane shall extend horizontally beyond the building footprint by no less than the minimum roof overhang dimension specified by the applied Character Frontage District (Div. 3B.9.) for all portions of the perimeter of the building footprint.

D. Measurement

Roof overhang is measured horizontally and perpendicular to the building facade from the face of the outermost building facade to the outer edge of the roof plane for the full perimeter of the building or structure.

E. Relief

1. Up to a 15 percent reduction to the minimum roof overhang dimension may be granted in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.2. (Adjustment).

2. A deviation from roof overhang standards beyond those available by Adjustment, above, may be granted as a variance in accordance with Sec. 13B.5.3. (variance).

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Sec. 3D.11.3. (Roof Overhang) Established by Ord. 189,007, Eff. 08/20/2026

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