Which Los Angeles zoning code applies to this parcel?
For Architect · Builder · Inspector
Start with the parcel's current zoning designation. Use ZIMAS to identify the applicable zoning code before selecting design standards.
View supporting passages (2)
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
Section 1.4.2 A.2–A.4 separates Chapter 1A lots from Chapter 1 lots. Article 13 provides administration for both.
View supporting passages (3)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(4), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code does not apply to those areas in which this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) is applicable, unless expressly stated in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A).
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(3), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Article 13. (Administration) applies to all land use and development in the City, including lots zoned with districts established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) and lots where Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code is still in effect.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
This guide addresses code selection within City of Los Angeles jurisdiction. It does not determine permit approval or ADU eligibility.
View supporting passages (2)
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
How to check
Identify the parcel
Find the address or APN in ZIMAS. Save the parcel result and the lookup date. Confirm the issuing jurisdiction.
View supporting passages (3)
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Record the code and overlays
Open Planning and Zoning. Record the zoning designation, Community Plan, Specific Plan, and applicable overlay records. Follow their source links.
View supporting passages (3)
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Verify Limitations: overlays and source links
Most properties across Los Angeles are subject to some type of overlay, an additional layer of planning control that limits or further restricts what can be built beyond what the zoning allows. Within ZIMAS, information is listed as to whether a site is located within a Historic Overlay Preservation Zone, a Specific Plan, or even a Community Design Overlay to name a few common examples. Click on each set of corresponding links to obtain additional information.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Check the scope of the selected code
For a Chapter 1A designation, start with Chapter 1A standards. For a Chapter 1 designation, start with Chapter 1 standards. Check Article 13 in either case. Check express Chapter 1 references under Section 1.4.2 A.4 before excluding Chapter 1 provisions.
View supporting passages (3)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(3), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Article 13. (Administration) applies to all land use and development in the City, including lots zoned with districts established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) and lots where Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code is still in effect.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(4), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code does not apply to those areas in which this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) is applicable, unless expressly stated in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A).
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Check timing before using current standards
Compare the application date and existing approvals with succession and vesting provisions. An earlier application requires its own timing review.
View supporting passages (2)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.4, printed 1-12; remaining conditions follow · PDF page 12
Any project with an entitlement application that was filed and for which all applications fees were paid prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), where applied, may continue to use the zoning that was in effect at the time of application, provided that approvals are granted and used within the time limits established in Sec. 13A.2.7. (Scope of Decision), unless the applicant elects to utilize the provisions of Chapter 1A. Projects subject to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) shall be subject to any subsequent amendments to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code unless the application has been vested pursuant to Sec. 1.4.5. (Vested Rights).
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.5(A), printed 1-13; see referenced sections · PDF page 13
A. Any project with an approved entitlement listed in the table below may be considered vested - see the specific Section cross-referenced in the Table for additional vesting details.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.4, printed 1-12; remaining conditions follow · PDF page 12
What the facts change
| If the record shows | Next research action |
|---|---|
| Zoning designation established under Chapter 1A | Review Chapter 1A development standards and Article 13 procedures.View supporting passages (2)
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage. |
| Zoning designation established under Chapter 1 | Review Chapter 1 development standards and applicable Article 13 procedures.View supporting passages (2)
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage. |
| Map result, approval history, or application date is unclear | Keep code selection unresolved. Obtain the missing record before evaluating the design.View supporting passages (2)
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage. |
Illustrative example
Illustrative case: a buyer proposes a garage conversion. The parcel record identifies a Chapter 1A designation. No earlier approval is supplied.
Start the zoning review under Chapter 1A and check Article 13 procedures. Then assess the proposed conversion and other applicable rules. This does not establish ADU eligibility.
View supporting passages (2)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(3), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
Article 13. (Administration) applies to all land use and development in the City, including lots zoned with districts established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) and lots where Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code is still in effect.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
Records to collect
Download checklist CSV- Parcel and issuing jurisdiction: Address, APN, and saved ZIMAS result
View supporting passages (2)
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
- Applicable zoning code: Current designation and code reference
View supporting passages (1)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
- Plans and overlays: Community Plan, Specific Plan, and overlay records
View supporting passages (2)
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Verify Limitations: overlays and source links
Most properties across Los Angeles are subject to some type of overlay, an additional layer of planning control that limits or further restricts what can be built beyond what the zoning allows. Within ZIMAS, information is listed as to whether a site is located within a Historic Overlay Preservation Zone, a Specific Plan, or even a Community Design Overlay to name a few common examples. Click on each set of corresponding links to obtain additional information.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Verify Limitations: overlays and source links
- Application and approval timing: Application receipt, approved plans, and entitlement records
View supporting passages (2)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.4, printed 1-12; remaining conditions follow · PDF page 12
Any project with an entitlement application that was filed and for which all applications fees were paid prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), where applied, may continue to use the zoning that was in effect at the time of application, provided that approvals are granted and used within the time limits established in Sec. 13A.2.7. (Scope of Decision), unless the applicant elects to utilize the provisions of Chapter 1A. Projects subject to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) shall be subject to any subsequent amendments to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code unless the application has been vested pursuant to Sec. 1.4.5. (Vested Rights).
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.5(A), printed 1-13; see referenced sections · PDF page 13
A. Any project with an approved entitlement listed in the table below may be considered vested - see the specific Section cross-referenced in the Table for additional vesting details.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.4, printed 1-12; remaining conditions follow · PDF page 12
- Project standards to review next: Proposed use, work description, and selected standards
View supporting passages (1)
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
With the exception of Article 13. (Administration), this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A) applies only to projects located on lots with zone designations established in this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), and does not apply to those lots zoned with districts established in Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.2(A)(2), printed 1-8 · PDF page 8
The checklist starts with every finding marked Unresolved.
Your next deliverable
A code selection record with its parcel evidence and unresolved timing questions. Use it before preparing a design compliance table.
View supporting passages (3)
- LA Planning: Zoning Search · Zoning Search: property records and search fields
The online mapping system is used to look up property information, ranging from a parcel’s land use and zoning designations to its planning application and building permit history. The ZIMAS application is designed to provide zoning related information for specific properties. You can search ZIMAS by: Property Address, Street Intersection, Assessor Parcel Number, Case Number, Community Plan Area, Council District, Certified Neighborhood Council, PIN Number, Legal Description, and MapSheet.
- LA adopted Chapter 1A Article 1 · §1.4.4, printed 1-12; remaining conditions follow · PDF page 12
Any project with an entitlement application that was filed and for which all applications fees were paid prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code (Chapter 1A), where applied, may continue to use the zoning that was in effect at the time of application, provided that approvals are granted and used within the time limits established in Sec. 13A.2.7. (Scope of Decision), unless the applicant elects to utilize the provisions of Chapter 1A. Projects subject to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) shall be subject to any subsequent amendments to Chapter I. (General Provisions and Zoning) of this Code unless the application has been vested pursuant to Sec. 1.4.5. (Vested Rights).
- LA Planning: which zoning code applies · FAQ: Using ZIMAS
Utilizing ZIMAS and entering the subject property’s address, then selecting the “Planning and Zoning” drop-down and checking the “Zoning” field. Clicking on the zone will either send you to the Original Zoning Code or the New Zoning Code.
These passages support the limited statement or research recommendation. They do not establish a property's eligibility. If the source opens at the top, use the quoted text to find the passage.
Still to verify
- No parcel or map result has been supplied.
- The stored edition's effective date needs review.
Sources and review record
These related references can include stored text or inaccessible publishers. The supporting passages beside each statement identify the sources used for its evidence check.
- LA City Planning — Zoning Search
Find the Zoning; Verify Limitations · Undated agency page; text read through official search
Text checked: 2026-10-12
- LA Chapter 1A — Adopted Article 1
§§1.4.2(A)(4), 1.4.4, 1.4.5 · 2025.1.0 adopted PDF; later amendments require a separate check
Text checked: 2026-10-18
- LA City Planning — Decision Makers
Opening paragraphs and ZIMAS link · Date not stated
Text checked: 2026-10-10
- Los Angeles Zoning Code — LAMC Chapter 1A § 1.4.2
§ 1.4.2 · 2026-08; completeness unverified
Text checked: 2026-10-17
- LA Zoning — Which Code Applies?
FAQ answer · Official FAQ body read directly
Text checked: 2026-10-18
AI-assisted research with recorded source checks. Open questions remain. Verify current law, effective dates, and property records before a property decision.