LOS ANGELES PRO DENSITY

[Jake Malott]

Hi Guys, 

I'm new to the BP Pro community so I wanted to start a discussion on my interest - density and new housing in Los Angeles. There are a number of things to look forward to in 2020 regarding ordinances and updates to the zoning code. 

1. TOC - Transit Oriented Community density bonus (already in effect, working well). This ordinance allows for properties within a mile radius to receive massive density bonuses and reduced parking requirements. A Tier 4 (best) property within walking distance of a metro rail can have up to an 80% density bonus with a zero parking requirement in addition to two levels being added to overall story height. 

2. ADU Ordinance V2.0 - The state just passed an updated Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance which allows for a third unit on single family properties after the v1.0 allowed for a granny flat. Now you can have the SFD, ADU and Junior ADU on a SFD zone essentially upzoning every lot in the city of LA with exception of course (very high fire severity zones). Another grand slam for property owners is the ability to convert garages or build new detached ADU's on multifamily lots essentially adding one or two new units to an already maxed out multifamily property...the best part is it's by right. No discretionary action necessary.

3. See my post in co-living thread but this is a rising star in the national market and LA is no different. Expect co-living on a variety of fronts to begin making its way through LA. From mom and pop style to institutional backed big blocks this is going to keep rising. I expect 1-3 years before an ordinance is written to address the new style of housing. 

4. SB50 vote delayed to 2020 - The pro housing communities are already talking about this one, up for vote in the new year. This asks for concentric (circle drawn around a point) upzoning of all properties to allow 4 and 5 story apartment buildings and increased density among other things. Many people disagree with it and believe it's too much a of a blanket approach coming from the state level. This would inevitably change neighborhood character in a lot of places but don't imagine LA to look like NYC in the future with bills like this, think more London / Paris. 

Would love comments on some of these. It's an exciting time for Los Angeles. This city is RIPE for development, you just have to know which tools to use.