LA Zoning Variances & Modifications

Variances & Requests For Modification

All construction projects in Los Angeles must conform to zoning regulations in the city. For example, commercial buildings can only be constructed in areas zoned for commercial buildings. Residential buildings can only be constructed in residential zones.

As the building boom continues in the city, more and more buildings are butting up against areas zoned for other uses. If you are looking to do construction in an area of the city zoned for another type of use, you will need a Zone Variance. A Zone Variance means you are asking the city to change the rules for the use of the property to suit your needs.

How do I get a Zone Variance in Los Angeles?

In order to get a Zone Variance, you must first submit your application to the Department of City Planning. The initial request is subject to a public hearing and all property owners and tenants within 500 feet of your project will be notified.

In order for your application to be approved. To do that, you must justify the following:

• Why the current zoning would result in hardships inconsistent with the intent of the current zoning regulations.
• The special circumstances regarding your property that doesn’t apply to other property in the same zone and vicinity
• Why the variance would not be detrimental to the public
• Why the variance would not affect the city’s General Plan
• Why the variance is necessary for the preservation of a substantial property right.

Remember, even if you think you have good arguments for all of these points, you still may not get the variance. Your best chance at obtaining a zone variance is by hiring an expert permit expeditor who has experience in working with the city planning department and preparing zone variance reports.

What is a Modification in Los Angeles?

A modification is much much simpler than a zone variance. A modification just means that you have changed previously approved building plans. Any time you veer from your original building plan, you must submit your modifications to the Department of Building and Safety for approval.

While getting a Request for Modification of your building plans is relatively easy, obtaining a a Zone Variance in Los Angeles is not for the faint at heart. Let our expert permit expeditors do the heavy lifting for you. Call for a free estimate today.