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MUNICIPAL CODE
FOREWORD
CHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONS AND ZONING
GENERAL PLANNING DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
ARTICLE 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
ARTICLE 1.2 ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS
ARTICLE 1.5 PLANNING - COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROGRAM
ARTICLE 2 SPECIFIC PLANNING - ZONING - COMPREHENSIVE ZONING PLAN
SEC. 12.00. TITLE.
SEC. 12.01. CONTINUATION OF EXISTING REGULATIONS.
SEC. 12.02. PURPOSE.
SEC. 12.03. DEFINITIONS.
SEC. 12.04. ZONES - DISTRICTS - SYMBOLS.
SEC. 12.04.01. VIOLATIONS OF SPECIFIC PLANS.
SEC. 12.04.05. “OS” OPEN SPACE ZONE.
SEC. 12.04.09. “PF” PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONE.
SEC. 12.05. “A1” AGRICULTURE ZONE.
SEC. 12.06. “A2” AGRICULTURAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.07. “RA” SUBURBAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.07.01. “RE” RESIDENTIAL ESTATE ZONE.
SEC. 12.07.1. “RS” SUBURBAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.08. “R1” ONE-FAMILY ZONE.
SEC. 12.08.1. RU RESIDENTIAL URBAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.08.3. RZ RESIDENTIAL ZERO SIDE YARD ZONE.
SEC. 12.08.5. “RW1” RESIDENTIAL WATERWAYS ZONE.
SEC. 12.09. “R2” TWO-FAMILY ZONE.
SEC. 12.09.1. “RD” RESTRICTED DENSITY MULTIPLE DWELLING ZONE.
SEC. 12.09.3. “RMP” MOBILEHOME PARK ZONE.
SEC. 12.09.5. “RW2” RESIDENTIAL WATERWAYS ZONE.
SEC. 12.10. “R3” MULTIPLE DWELLING ZONE.
SEC. 12.10.5. RAS3 RESIDENTIAL/ACCESSORY SERVICES ZONE PURPOSE STATEMENT.
SEC. 12.11. “R4” MULTIPLE DWELLING ZONE.
SEC. 12.11.5. RAS4 RESIDENTIAL/ACCESSORY SERVICES ZONE PURPOSE STATEMENT.
SEC. 12.12. “R5” MULTIPLE DWELLING ZONE.
SEC. 12.12.1. “P” AUTOMOBILE PARKING ZONE.
SEC. 12.12.1.5. “PB” PARKING BUILDING ZONE.*
SEC. 12.12.2. “CR” LIMITED COMMERCIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.13. “C1” LIMITED COMMERCIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.13.5. “C1.5” LIMITED COMMERCIAL ZONE
SEC. 12.14. “C2” COMMERCIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.16. “C4” COMMERCIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.1. “CW” CENTRAL CITY WEST SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.2. ADP ALAMEDA DISTRICT SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.3. LASED LOS ANGELES SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.4. CEC CONVENTION AND EVENT CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.5. USC-1A UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN SUBAREA 1A ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.6. USC-1B UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN SUBAREA 1B ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.7. USC-2 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN SUBAREA 2 ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.8. USC-3 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS SPECIFIC PLAN SUBAREA 3 ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.9. PVSP PONTE VISTA AT SAN PEDRO SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.16.10. DNSP DISTRICT NOHO SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.17. “C5” COMMERCIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.17.1. “CM” COMMERCIAL MANUFACTURING ZONE.
SEC. 12.17.2. “CM(GM)” COMMERCIAL MANUFACTURING (GLENCOE/MAXELLA) SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.17.5. “MR1” RESTRICTED INDUSTRIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.17.5.5. “CCS” CENTURY CITY SOUTH SPECIFIC PLAN STUDIO ZONE.
SEC. 12.17.6. “M1” LIMITED INDUSTRIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.18. “MR2” RESTRICTED LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.18.1. “WC” WARNER CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN ZONE.
SEC. 12.19. “M2” LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.19.1. LAX LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ZONE.
SEC. 12.20. “M3” HEAVY INDUSTRIAL ZONE.
SEC. 12.20.1. SL OCEAN - SUBMERGED LAND ZONE.
SEC. 12.20.2. COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMITS (PRIOR TO CERTIFICATION OF THE LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM.)
SEC. 12.20.2.1. COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT PROCEDURES AFTER CERTIFICATION OF THE LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM.
SEC. 12.20.3. “HP” HISTORIC PRESERVATION OVERLAY ZONE.
SEC. 12.21. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
SEC. 12.21.1. HEIGHT OF BUILDING OR STRUCTURES.
SEC. 12.21.2. HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES IN CENTURY CITY.
SEC. 12.21.3. HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES IN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT PLAN AREAS.
SEC. 12.21.4. HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES IN ENTERPRISE ZONES.
SEC. 12.21.5. HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES IN CENTERS STUDY AREAS.
SEC. 12.21.6. HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES IN ALL R1V, R1F, AND R1R ONE-FAMILY ZONE VARIATIONS.
SEC. 12.22. EXCEPTIONS.
SEC. 12.22.1. CITY OF LOS ANGELES SAFER FILMING ORDINANCE.
SEC. 12.23. NONCONFORMING BUILDING AND USES.
SEC. 12.24. CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS AND OTHER SIMILAR QUASI-JUDICIAL APPROVALS.
SEC. 12.24.1. LAND USE DETERMINATION BY CITY PLANNING COMMISSION.
SEC. 12.25. TIME LIMITATIONS.
SEC. 12.26. DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND SAFETY.
SEC. 12.27. VARIANCES.
SEC. 12.27.1. ADMINISTRATIVE NUISANCE ABATEMENT PROCEEDINGS.
SEC. 12.28. ADJUSTMENTS AND SLIGHT MODIFICATIONS.
SEC. 12.29. VIOLATION OF CONDITIONS - PENALTY.
SEC. 12.30. BOUNDARIES OF ZONES.
SEC. 12.31. INTERPRETATION - PURPOSE - CONFLICT.
SEC. 12.32. LAND USE LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS.
SEC. 12.33. PARK FEES AND LAND DEDICATION.
SEC. 12.34. APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS.
SEC. 12.35. ZONING OF ANNEXED OR UNZONED AREAS.
SEC. 12.36. PROJECTS REQUIRING MULTIPLE APPROVALS. (CHARTER § 564).
SEC. 12.37. HIGHWAY AND COLLECTOR STREET DEDICATION AND IMPROVEMENT.
SEC. 12.38. DEDICATION OF STREETS BY LONG TERM LEASES.
SEC. 12.39. LOW AND MODERATE HOUSING.
SEC. 12.40. LANDSCAPE - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
SEC. 12.41. LANDSCAPE - WATER MANAGEMENT.
SEC. 12.42. LANDSCAPE.
SEC. 12.43. SOURCE REDUCTION OF WASTE.
SEC. 12.50. AIRPORT APPROACH ZONING REGULATIONS.
SEC. 12.70. ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ZONING.
SEC. 12.80. HOMELESS SHELTERS - EMERGENCIES - CITY OWNED AND LEASED PROPERTY.
SEC. 12.81. HOMELESS SHELTERS - EMERGENCIES - CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS.
SEC. 12.82. HOMELESS SHELTERS - EMERGENCIES - EL NIÑO 2016.
ARTICLE 2.9 CONDOMINIUMS, COMMUNITY APARTMENTS AND STOCK COOPERATIVES
ARTICLE 3 SPECIFIC PLAN - ZONING SUPPLEMENTAL USE DISTRICTS
ARTICLE 4 PUBLIC BENEFIT PROJECTS
ARTICLE 4.3 ELDERCARE FACILITY UNIFIED PERMIT PROCESS
ARTICLE 4.4 SIGN REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 4.5 TRANSFER OF FLOOR AREA RIGHTS - CENTRAL CITY COMMUNITY PLAN AND CITY CENTER REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREAS
ARTICLE 5 REFERRALS - LAND FOR PUBLIC USE
ARTICLE 6 LOCAL EMERGENCY TEMPORARY REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 6.1 REVIEW OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
ARTICLE 7 DIVISION OF LAND REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 8 PRIVATE STREET REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 9 FEES
CHAPTER 1A CITY OF LOS ANGELES ZONING CODE
CHAPTER II* LICENSES, PERMITS, BUSINESS REGULATIONS
CHAPTER III PUBLIC HEALTH CODE
CHAPTER IV PUBLIC WELFARE
CHAPTER V PUBLIC SAFETY AND PROTECTION
CHAPTER VI PUBLIC WORKS AND PROPERTY
CHAPTER VII TRANSPORTATION
CHAPTER VIII TRAFFIC
CHAPTER IX BUILDING REGULATIONS
CHAPTER X BUSINESS REGULATIONS
CHAPTER XI NOISE REGULATION
CHAPTER XII THE WATER CONSERVATION PLAN OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES
CHAPTER XIII THE EMERGENCY ENERGY CURTAILMENT PLAN OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES
CHAPTER XV RENT STABILIZATION ORDINANCE
CHAPTER XVI HOUSING REGULATIONS
CHAPTER XVII RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF THE LOS ANGELES AIRPORTS
CHAPTER XVIII EMPLOYEE WAGES AND PROTECTIONS
CHAPTER XIX ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
CHAPTER XX COVID-19 PROTECTION AND RECOVERY*
TABLES
Los Angeles Planning and Zoning
Chapter 1A City of Los Angeles Zoning Code
Table of Amending Legislation for Chapter 1A
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SEC. 12.39. LOW AND MODERATE HOUSING.
   (Repealed by Ord. No. 180,308, Eff. 12/7/08.)
 
 
SEC. 12.40. LANDSCAPE – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
   (Added by Ord. No. 170,978, Eff. 5/13/96, Oper. 7/13/96.)
 
   A.   Purpose.
 
   1.   To bring greater order and certainty to the development process.
 
   2.   To respond to State-level mandates for action in such areas as water conservation, energy conservation, enhancement of water quality, and amelioration of air quality.
 
   3.   To increase the amount and quality of appropriate landscaping appurtenant to all land uses in the City.
 
   4.   To establish a minimum level of regulation that protects the public and at the same time allows for design flexibility.
 
   B.   Prohibitions. Notwithstanding any provisions of Chapter 1 of this Code to the contrary, the Department of Building and Safety shall not issue any building, grading, or use of land permit for any Project unless the Department of City Planning determines that the proposed landscaping will meet the provisions of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code and has been assured that any proposed landscaping will be installed.
 
   C.   Exceptions. The provisions of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code shall not apply to:
 
   1.   Any Project involving replacement of an earthquake hazardous building demolished as a result of an enforcement of the Earthquake Safety Ordinance (Division 88, Article 1, Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.)
 
   2.   Any Project for which a building permit is required
 
   (a)   in order to comply with an order issued by the Department of Building and Safety to repair an unsafe or substandard condition, or
 
   (b)   in order to rebuild as a result of destruction by fire, earthquake, or other natural disaster.
 
   3.   Any Project regulated by Subparagraph (i) of Section 12.04.05 B.1.(a) of this Code.
 
   4.   Any Project which has obtained a still-valid discretionary land use approval from the City prior to the operative date of this section, and which also required approval of landscape documents.
 
   5.   Any Project where plans were accepted by the Department of Building and Safety for plan check prior to the operative date of this ordinance. This exception does not apply to any Project where changes were later made to the Project which increase the gross square footage or number of parking spaces by more than five percent. This exception shall no longer be valid if construction is not commenced within one year of the date of issuance of the permit.
 
   6.   Any landscape that is designated a Historic- Cultural Monument.
 
   7.   Cemeteries.
 
   D.   Definitions. Whenever the following terms are used in Sections 12.40 through 12.43 they shall be construed as defined below. Words and phrases not defined herein shall be construed as defined in Sections 12.03, and in the Guidelines adopted by the City Planning Commission pursuant to Subsection F. below.
 
   Grass - Any relatively low-growing living ground cover of the family Poaceae (Graminae), usually mown. Includes, but is not limited to, members of the species Agropyron (Wheat Grass), Agrostis (Bent Grass, Redtop), Bouteloua (Blue Grama Grass), Buchloe (Buffalo Grass), Cynodon (Bermudagrass), Festuca (Fescue), Lolium (Rye Grass), Poa (Bluegrass), Stenotaphrum (St. Augustine Grass), Zoysia (Korean Grass). Does not include members of the family Poaceae (Graminae), that are usually not mown, such as members of the species Aristidia (Triple-Awned Grass), Miscanthus (Eulalia Grass), Muhlenbergia (Deer Grass).
 
   Landscape Practitioner - Any person licensed by the State of California to design, install or maintain landscape or irrigation systems. Any person specifically exempted by the State from the licensing requirements in the field of landscape or land management. Any owner who designs, installs or maintains landscaping or irrigation systems on the owner’s own property.
 
   Lawn Area - Any relatively low-growing, living, ground cover, typically (but not necessarily) mown, that will withstand foot traffic, and that requires dry- season irrigation greater than that required by Common Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon). Includes Dichondra and Clovers (Trifolium species.)
 
   Native (Plant) - Any (plant) species indigenous to the Los Angeles area existing before European settlement, as identified in James Hendrickson’s The Jepson Manual, or its successor standard reference, as adopted by the Director of Planning.
 
   Native (Plant) Community - A recurring combination of native (plant) species that reflects parallel responses to similar combinations of environmental conditions, as identified in Robert F. Holland’s “Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California,” or its successor standard reference, as adopted by the Director of Planning.
 
   Permeable - A material that permits water penetration to a soil depth of 18 inches or more, including non porous surface material poured or laid in sections not exceeding one square foot in area and collectively comprising less than two-thirds of the total surface area of loosely laid material such as crushed stone or gravel.
 
   Project - Any use of land, construction or addition which includes more than 2,000 gross square feet of impermeable surface. A Project shall include new parking areas and additions to existing parking areas constructed with impermeable paving and new parking buildings. A Project shall not include construction of or addition to one-family dwellings, nor shall a Project include any structure or use of land which is permeable.
 
   Stream - Any perennial or intermittent stream or river identified on United State Geological Survey Maps.
 
   Wetland - Any natural lake, intermittent lake, pond, intermittent pond, marsh, swamp, seep or spring identified on United States Geological Survey Maps.
 
   E.   Landscape Point System. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) The Department of City Planning shall not approve proposed landscape for any Project unless the landscape satisfies the requirements of the landscape point system, as established by the City Planning Commission. A Project that satisfies any landscape requirements of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code or any other sections of this Code, may accrue points.
 
   F.   Approvals. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) The Director of Planning shall have the authority to issue approvals under Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code. The Director shall review and approve or disapprove the proposed landscape. These decisions shall be based on the requirements for application submittal established by the City Planning Commission. The City Planning Commission shall adopt and revise, as necessary, guidelines to implement the provisions of Sections 12.40 through 12.43. The Director may also grant exemptions from Sections 12.40 through 12.43 if the Director finds that these landscaping requirements are inappropriate due to the temporary nature of the Project.
 
   G.   Certificate of Substantial Completion.
 
   1.   When the approved landscape has been substantially installed, a landscape practitioner shall file a certificate of substantial completion certifying to the Department of City Planning, that the proposed landscape required in Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code has been substantially provided on the Project.
 
   2.   Substantial completion may be guaranteed by the applicant, in lieu of actual installation. A performance bond, certificate of deposit, letter of credit, surety deposit, or other instrument satisfactory to the City Attorney, in any amount equal to the cost of the landscape, shall be posted with the City to ensure satisfactory completion of the landscape.
 
   3.   Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prevent the Department of Building and Safety from issuing a certificate of occupancy, when otherwise permitted or required.
 
   H.   Relationship To The Provisions of The Los Angeles Municipal Code.
 
   1.   Existing “Q” Conditions, “D” Development Limitations or “F” Funded Improvement Classifications. In the case of conflicts between Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code with existing “Q” conditions, “D” development limitations or “F” funded improvements classifications, the existing “Q” conditions, “D” development limitations or “F” funded improvement classifications shall control.
 
   2.   Existing Specific Plans. In the case of conflicts between Sections 12.40, 12.42 and 12.43 of this Code with existing specific plans, the provisions of the following existing specific plans shall control: Central City West Specific Plan, Colorado Boulevard Specific Plan, Devonshire-Topanga Specific Plan, Granada Hills Specific Plan, Mulholland Scenic Parkway Specific Plan (controls over Section 12.42 only), Pacific Palisades Commercial Village Specific Plan, Park Mile Specific Plan, Playa Vista Specific Plan, Porter Ranch Specific Plan (controls over Section 12.43 only), Reseda Central Business District Specific Plan, San Vicente Scenic Corridor Specific Plan, Valley Village Specific Plan, the Venice Coastal Zone regulations, Ventura-Cahuenga Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan, Warner Center Specific Plan, and Wilshire-Westwood Scenic Corridor Specific Plan. In the case of conflicts between Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code with the provisions of the Mount Washington Specific Plan or the Foothill Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan, the more restrictive provisions shall control. (Amended by Ord. No. 171,694, Eff. 9/26/97.)
 
   3.   Future Specific Plans, “Q” Conditions, “D” Development Limitations or “F” Funded Improvement Classifications. Future specific plans, “Q” conditions, “D” development limitations or “F” funded improvement classifications may impose alternate landscape requirements, if they expressly state that the specific plan’s, ”Q” conditions’s, “D” development limitation’s or “F” funded improvement classification’s landscape requirements are intended to supersede the standards set forth in Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code.
 
   I.   If any provision of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 conflicts with Article 7, Chapter V of this Code, Article 7, Chapter V shall control.
 
   J.   Unless specifically prohibited by this Code, any existing features and techniques that fulfill the requirements of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code may be used to satisfy the requirements of these sections. The provisions of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code shall not require the removal of any existing structures or features nor prohibit any existing, installed landscape techniques. Where conflicts arise, all efforts shall be made to conform to the provisions of Sections 12.40 through 12.43 of this Code in a reasonable and practical manner.
 
 
SEC. 12.41. LANDSCAPE – WATER MANAGEMENT.
   (Added by Ord. No. 170,978, Eff. 5/13/96, Oper. 7/13/96.)
 
   A.   Purpose. To contribute to conservation of the City’s imported water resources mandated by state law by setting minimum standards for water delivery systems to landscapes.
 
   B.   Requirements and Prohibitions.
 
   1.   No building permit, use of land permit, or grading permit for which landscape is required or for which landscape is provided shall be issued, except when the purpose is to construct a one-family dwelling, unless the Department of City Planning first determines that the required Water Management features and techniques, established by the City Planning Commission will be installed on the subject lot. No water management approval shall be required or issued for these permits unless a landscape approval required for the permits has first been issued by the Department of City Planning.
 
   2.   All permanent irrigation systems required under the provisions of this Code that use potable water shall meet the minimum specifications for features and techniques established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   3.   No irrigation system shall be required for undisturbed native or undisturbed natural vegetation, provided that the overall hydrologic regime that supported the vegetation remains unaltered. At the discretion of the Department of City Planning, an irrigation system may be required when the applicant proposes to establish native plantings, designed to take advantage of natural rainfall.
 
   4.   No portion of this section shall be construed to mandate any specific type of irrigation equipment, either existing or to be developed, except backflow preventers, nor any specific method of application of water, either existing or to be developed, provided it meets the criteria set forth in this section, unless specifically required by other sections of this Code. The provision of hose bibs or quick coupler valves shall be considered the provision of an irrigation system, provided all points of the irrigated area are less than 50 feet from a hose bib or quick coupler valve; no portion of the irrigated area slopes at more than a 5:1 grade; and the total area to be irrigated does not exceed 500 square feet.
 
   5.   Irrigation Maintenance. All portions of every irrigation system shall be continuously maintained in a condition such that the intent of the irrigation design is fulfilled. Uncontrolled emission of water from any pipe, valve head, emitter, or other irrigation device shall be considered evidence of non- maintenance.
 
   6.   For the purposes of this section only, a Landscape practitioner is as defined in Section 12.40 D. and also includes any person certified by a professional organization in the field of water management, or any person with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a California college or university, in the field of water management, when not in conflict with applicable State licensing laws and guidelines adopted by the Director of Planning. The Director is hereby authorized to adopt guidelines and procedures necessary to implement the provisions of this section.
 
   7.   Mulch. Owners of landscaping shall be encouraged to provide for plant mulching with planted areas provided with a layer of mulch a minimum of three inches deep, to aid the growth of the plants.
 
 
SEC. 12.42. LANDSCAPE.
   (Added by Ord. No. 170,978, Eff. 5/13/96, Oper. 7/13/96.)
 
   A.   Conservation of Energy.
 
   1.   Purpose. To contribute to mitigation of increasing urban temperatures, thereby reducing the need for new power generating facilities, the following regulations shall apply.
 
   2.   Tree Planting. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) Applications for landscape approval shall contain a proposal for shading of walls of structures in accordance with the guidelines established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   B.   Heat and Glare Reduction.
 
   1.   Purpose. To contribute to the mitigation of increasing urban temperatures, thereby reducing the need for new power generating facilities, to reduce storm water runoff, and to increase ground water recharge, the following regulations shall apply.
 
   2.   Vehicular Use Areas. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Code to the contrary, applications for landscape approval shall contain a proposal for heat and glare reduction in vehicular use areas in accordance with guidelines established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   C.   Air Quality Enhancement.
 
   1.   Purpose. To ensure coordination between landscape and other features of the urban environment and to contribute to the processes of oxygen regeneration, clearing the air of harmful pollutants, and removal of air-borne particulates, the following regulations shall apply.
 
   2.   Procedure. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) Applications for landscape approval shall contain a proposal for air quality enhancement, in accordance with the guidelines established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   D.   Soil and Watershed Conservation.
 
   1.   Purpose. To conserve the unique character of the City which is largely determined by its landforms; and to encourage the restoration of such native areas as are unavoidably disturbed by development; to conserve soil and accumulated organic litter and reduce erosion by utilization of a variety of methods; and to increase residence time of precipitation in the watershed, the following regulations shall apply.
 
   2.   General Requirements.
 
   (a)   (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) The Department of Building and Safety shall not issue any building permits for a Project where soil and watershed conservation techniques, as provided in this section and in the guidelines established by the City Planning Commission, have not been used, as determined by the Department of City Planning. Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 1 of Chapter IX of this Code, all cut and fill slopes in Hillside Areas determined under the provisions of that article of this Code to be subject to erosion, shall be planted and irrigated pursuant to the provisions of this subdivision.
 
   (b)   All cut and fill slopes in Hillside Areas shall be landform graded and landform planted to the maximum extent feasible where such techniques do not affect the stability of the graded slopes. Where landform grading is unsuitable for the entire graded area, portions of the graded area may be required by the Department of City Planning to be landform graded and landform planted, consistent with public safety. Nothing in this paragraph shall prohibit the Department of Building and Safety from enforcing the planting and irrigation provisions of the Grading Division of Chapter IX of this Code.
 
   (c)   The Director shall take measures to ensure that the planting of slopes shall take into consideration such factors as degree of slope, slope orientation, type of soil, rooting depth of plants, fire dangers, availability of water, original native communities, depth of soil, and other relevant design factors.
 
   (d)   Non-native plants, when used, shall compliment native communities in growth habit, foliage color, cultural requirements, and flowering behavior.
 
   3.   Required Vegetation. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) Manufactured slopes shall be planted in accordance with the guidelines established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   E.   Landscape Techniques.
 
   1.   Turf Block. Turf block, turf stone or similar materials shall be considered non-planted areas, except in planted portions of emergency access ways when permitted by the Fire Department. (Amended by Ord. No. 171,530, Eff. 4/4/97.)
 
   2.   Coordination with Signs and Lighting. All planting shall be coordinated with all signs and lighting on the Project site, both upon installation of the planting and upon the planting reaching its maximum designed size. All shall be designed such that one will not interfere with the other, nor require excessive maintenance.
 
   3.   Planting Techniques. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) All planting shall be accomplished in accordance with the guidelines established by the City Planning Commission.
 
   F.   Walls. All concrete or masonry walls shall have a minimum nominal thickness of six inches unless designed to withstand lateral force and constructed pursuant to plans approved by the Department of Building and Safety.
 
 
SEC. 12.43. SOURCE REDUCTION OF WASTE.
   (Added by Ord. No. 170,978, Eff. 5/13/96, Oper. 7/13/96.)
 
   A.   If any landscape includes grass, all grass clippings shall be recycled on- or off-site, and shall not be introduced into the off-site waste stream.
 
   B.   If a lot is 7,500 square feet or greater, all vegetative waste, except that which is not appropriate to recycle, shall be recycled on- or off-site and shall not be introduced into the off-site waste stream.
 
   C.   In any landscape with lawn area greater than 15 percent of the planted area, all lawn area waste shall be recycled on- or off-site.
 
   D.   Exceptions shall be made when the waste is produced by installation of the landscape, as a result of fulfilling the requirements of Division 88, Article 1 of Chapter IX of this Code, or as a result of fulfilling the requirements of Article 7, Chapter V of this Code.
 
   E.   Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code, except for Subsection A., the provisions of this section shall take effect only at the time and in the manner that the Board of Public Works, after a public hearing, certifies to the Director that sufficient off-site facilities exist to handle the expected volume of recycled vegetative waste.
 
 
SEC. 12.50. AIRPORT APPROACH ZONING REGULATIONS.
   (Amended by Ord. No. 173,268, Eff. 7/1/00, Oper. 7/1/00.)
 
   A.   Scope and Applicability of Regulations. It is hereby found that potential airport hazards exist or may be created in connection with the maintenance and operation of the Van Nuys and Los Angeles International Airports. In order to prevent the creation or establishment of these hazards, special airport zoning regulations controlling height limits and regulating the use of the land are hereby established within the airport hazard areas surrounding the Van Nuys and Los Angeles International Airports. The provisions of this section are not intended to abrogate any other section of this Code, and when it appears that there is a conflict with other sections, the most restrictive requirement shall apply.
 
   B.   Airport Hazard Areas Map. The boundaries of the airport hazard areas and the height limitations imposed in those areas are shown on the “Airport Hazard Areas Map”, made up of separate sheets and bearing appropriate marks, notations, references and other information and consisting of:
 
   (1)   the Airport Hazard Areas Map relating to the Van Nuys Airport and adopted as part of Ordinance No. 130,500, which added Section 12.50 to this Code;
 
   (2)   the Airport Hazard Areas Map relating to the Los Angeles International Airport, (both of which maps are attached and by this reference incorporated into this ordinance and made a part of it as though set forth at length); and
 
   (3)   any future amendments and additions to the maps as may be adopted by ordinance.
 
   C.   Definitions. For the purpose of this section certain terms and words are defined as follows:
 
   1.   Airport Hazard means any structure or tree or use of land which obstructs the airspace required for the flight of aircraft in landing or taking off at an airport or is otherwise hazardous to the landing or taking off of aircraft.
 
   2.   Airport Hazard Area means any area of land or water upon which an airport hazard might be established if not prevented as provided in this section.
 
   3.   Structure means any object constructed or installed by persons, including, but without limitation, buildings, towers, smoke stacks, and overhead lines.
 
   4.   Tree means any object of natural growth.
 
   D.   General Provisions. Except where it is determined by a Zoning Administrator, or by the Area Planning Commission upon appeal pursuant to Sec. 13B.2.1. (Class 1 Conditional Use Permit) of Chapter 1A of this Code, after consideration of any report and recommendation which might be submitted by the General Manager of the Department of Airports, that compliance with this section in a particular situation would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship and that the proposed height of a structure or tree beyond that otherwise permitted by the provisions of this section will not constitute a hazard to aircraft or in any way interfere with air safety or the safety of persons and objects on the ground, no structure shall be erected, structurally altered, enlarged or maintained, and no tree shall be planted, allowed to grow or be maintained within the airport hazard areas surrounding the Van Nuys or Los Angeles International Airports which exceeds the heights as shown on the Airport Hazard Areas Map or as further provided in Subsection F. for transitional surface areas. The procedure and fees for requesting and procuring a determination of an exception mentioned herein, for appealing from the determination or requesting a transfer of jurisdiction to the Area Planning Commission, and the time limitations applicable to those actions shall be the same as those provided in Sec. 13B.2.1. (Class 1 Conditional Use Permit) of Chapter 1A of this Code; provided, however, that upon the filing of a request for exception with the Department of City Planning, the Department shall immediately request a report and recommendation from the General Manager of the Department of Airports and time shall not commence to run for a Zoning Administrator to act until the report and recommendation has been received or 60 days have elapsed from the time of the request. (Amended by Ord. No. 187,712, Eff. 1/23/23, Oper. 1/22/24; Ord. No. 187,930, Eff. 7/7/23.)
 
   E.   Use Restrictions. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this article, no use may be made of land within an airport hazard area, as established by this section in a manner as to create electrical or electronic interference with radio or radar communication between the Van Nuys or Los Angeles International Airports and approaching or departing aircraft. No illuminated or flashing advertising or business sign, billboard or any other structure shall be installed or maintained within an airport hazard area which would make it difficult for flyers to distinguish between those lights and the aeronautical lights of the airport, or which would result in glare in the eyes of pilots and impairment of visibility or otherwise endanger the landing, taking off or maneuvering of aircraft.
 
   F.   Transitional Surface Area Height Limits. The height limit in the transitional surface areas, as shown on the above described map, shall be an inclined plane surface having a slope ratio of one vertical to seven horizontal, sloping upward and outward from the boundary of the transitional surface area on either side of a runway or from the edge of a runway approach area, whichever is adjacent. The direction of the slope shall be at right angles to the center line of the runway or its prolongation and shall extend upward from the elevation of the nearest runway or from the height limit elevation permitted in a runway approach area, whichever is adjacent.
 
   G.   Interpretations. Where uncertainty exists in applying the provisions of this section, the Zoning Administrator, upon written request, shall determine the location of the boundary lines of the airport hazard areas or the height limits by written decision pursuant to Sec. 13B.2.1. (Class 1 Conditional Use Permit) of Chapter 1A of this Code. A copy of the decision shall be furnished to the Department of Building and Safety. (Amended by Ord. No. 187,712, Eff. 1/23/23, Oper. 1/22/24; Ord. No. 187,930, Eff. 7/7/23.)
 
   H.   Exception. The provisions of this section shall not prevent structures, including all projections from the structure, to be erected, structurally altered, enlarged or maintained and trees to be planted and maintained to an overall height of not to exceed 45 feet above the natural or finished grade, whichever is lower.
 
   I.   Continuation of Existing Regulations. The provisions of this section, insofar as they are substantially the same as existing provisions relating to the same subject matter, shall be construed as restatements and continuations and not as new enactments.
 
   J.   Before any existing structure which conforms to all other provisions of this article but which does not conform with the provisions of this section may be replaced, substantially altered or repaired, or rebuilt in a manner not conforming with the height limitations of this section, a permit must be secured from the Department of Building and Safety in addition to all other permits required by this Code. All applications for these permits shall be granted except those which would permit a nonconforming structure to be made higher or become a greater hazard to air navigation than it was when the applicable restrictions of this section were adopted or when the application for the permit was made, whichever is the more restrictive. No permit is required by this section to make maintenance repairs to or to replace parts of existing structures which do not enlarge or increase the height of those structures.
 
   Any existing tree which does not conform with the provisions of this section may remain or be replaced by one of comparable or smaller size or be replanted but shall not be allowed to grow higher or become a greater hazard to air navigation than it was when the applicable restrictions of this section were adopted.
 
 
SEC. 12.70. ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ZONING.
   (Added by Ord. No. 151,294, Eff. 9/1/78.)
 
   A.   Purpose. It is the purpose and object of this section to establish reasonable and uniform regulations to prevent the continued concentration of adult entertainment businesses, as defined herein, within the City of Los Angeles.
 
   B.   Definitions. For the purpose of this section, certain terms and words are defined as follows:
 
   1.   Adult Arcade” – An establishment where, for any form of consideration, one or more motion picture projectors, slide projectors or similar machines, for viewing by five or fewer persons each, are used to show films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides or other photographic reproductions which are characterized by an emphasis upon the depiction or description of “specified sexual activities” or “specified anatomical areas.
 
   2.   “Adult Bookstores” – An establishment which has as a substantial portion of its stock-in-trade and offers for sale for any form of consideration any one or more of the following:
 
   (a)   Books, magazines, periodicals or other printed matter, or photographs, films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides or other visual representations which are characterized by an emphasis upon the depiction or description of “specified sexual activities” or “specified anatomical areas;” or
 
   (b)   Instruments, devices or paraphernalia which are designed for use in connection with “specified sexual activities.
 
   3.   Adult CabaretA nightclub, bar, restaurant or similar establishment which regularly features live performances which are characterized by the exposure of “specified anatomical areas” or by “specified sexual activities,” or films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides or other photographic reproductions which are characterized by an emphasis upon the depiction or description of “specified sexual activities” or “specified anatomical areas.
 
   4.   “Adult Motel” – A motel or similar establishment offering public accommodations for any form of consideration which provides patrons with closed circuit television transmissions, films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides or other photographic reproductions which are characterized by an emphasis upon the depiction or description of “specified sexual activities” or “specified anatomical areas.
 
   5.   “Adult Motion Picture Theater” – An establishment where, for any form of consideration, films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides or similar reproductions are shown, and in which a substantial portion of the total presentation time is devoted to the showing of material which is characterized by an emphasis upon the depiction or description of “specified sexual activities” or “specified anatomical areas
 
   6.   “Adult Theater” – A theater concert hall, auditorium or similar establishment which, for any form of consideration, regularly features live performances which are characterized by the exposure of “specified anatomical areas” or by “specified sexual activities.
 
   7.   Establishment (Amended by Ord. No. 157,538, Eff. 5/13/83.) – As used in Subsection C. hereof, the “establishment” of an adult entertainment business shall mean and include any of the following:
 
   (a)   The opening or commencement of any such business as a new business;
 
   (b)   The conversion of an existing business, whether or not an adult entertainment business, to any of the adult entertainment businesses defined herein; or
 
   (c)   The relocation of any such business.
 
   8.   “Massage Parlor An establishment where, for any form of consideration, massage, alcohol rub, fomentation, electric or magnetic treatment, or similar treatment or manipulation of the human body is administered, unless such treatment or manipulation is administered by a medical practitioner, chiropractor, acupuncturist, physical therapist or similar professional person licensed by the State of California. This definition does not include an athletic club, health club, school, gymnasium, state licensed cosmetology or barber establishment, reducing salon, spa or similar establishment where massage or similar manipulation of the human body is offered as an incidental or accessory service. (Amended by Ord. No. 155,718, Eff. 8/6/81.)
 
   9.   “Public ParkA park, playground, swimming pool, beach, pier, reservoir, golf course or similar athletic field within the City of Los Angeles which is under the control, operation or management of the City Board of Recreation and Park Commissioners or the County Department of Beaches.
 
   10.   “Religious Institution” – A building which is used primarily for religious worship and related religious activities.
 
   11.   School” – An institution of learning for minors, whether public or private which offers instruction in those courses of study required by the California Education Code or which is maintained pursuant to standards set by the State Board of Education. This definition includes a nursery school, kindergarten, elementary school, junior high school, senior high school or any special institution of learning under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Education, but it does not include a vocational or professional institution or an institution of higher education, including a community or junior college, college or university.
 
   12.   “Sexual Encounter Establishment” – An establishment, other than a hotel, motel or similar establishment offering public accommodations, which, for any form of consideration, provides a place where two or more persons may congregate, associate or consort in connection with “specified sexual activities” or the exposure of “specified anatomical areas.” This definition does not include an establishment where a medical practitioner, psychologist, psychiatrist or similar professional person licensed by the State of California engages in sexual therapy.
 
   13.   “Specified Anatomical Areas” – As used herein, “specified anatomical areas” shall mean and include any of the following:
 
   (a)   Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, pubic region, buttocks, anus or female breasts below a point immediately above the top of the areolas; or
 
   (b)   Human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state, even if completely and opaquely covered.
 
   14.   “Specified Sexual Activities” – As used herein, “specified sexual activities” shall mean and include any of the following:
 
   (a)   The fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic region, buttocks, anus or female breasts;
 
   (b)   Sex acts, normal or perverted, actual or simulated, including intercourse, oral copulation or sodomy;
 
   (c)   Masturbation, actual or simulated; or
 
   (d)   Excretory functions as part of or in connection with any of the activities set forth in (a) through (c) above.
 
   15.   “Substantial EnlargementAs used in Subsection C. hereof, the “substantial enlargement” of an adult entertainment business shall mean the increase in floor area occupied by the business by more than fifty percent (50%), as such floor area exists on the effective date of this section.
 
   16.   “Transfer of Ownership or ControlAs used in Subsections C. and E. hereof, the “transfer of ownership or control” of an adult entertainment business shall mean and include any of the following:
 
   (a)   The sale, lease or sublease of such business;
 
   (b)   The transfer of securities which constitute a controlling interest in such business, whether by sale, exchange or similar means; or
 
   (c)   The establishment of a trust, gift or other similar legal device which transfers the ownership or control of such business, except for transfer by bequest or other operation of law upon the death of the person possessing such ownership or control.
 
   17.   “Adult Entertainment BusinessAdult Arcade, Adult Bookstore, Adult Cabaret, Adult Motel, Adult Motion Picture Theatre, Adult Theatre, Massage Parlor, or Sexual Encounter Establishment, as defined herein, and each shall constitute a separate adult entertainment business even if operated in conjunction with another adult entertainment business at the same establishment. (Added by Ord. No. 157,538, Eff. 5/13/83.)
 
   C.   Prohibition. (Amended by Ord. No. 158,579, Eff. 1/23/84.) No person shall cause or permit the establishment, substantial enlargement or transfer of ownership or control of an adult entertainment business within 1,000 feet of another adult entertainment business, or within 500 feet of a religious institution, school, or public park within the City of Los Angeles. No person shall cause or permit the establishment or maintenance of more than one adult entertainment business in the same building, structure or portion thereof, or the increase of floor area of any adult entertainment business in any building, structure or portion thereof containing another adult entertainment business.
 
   No person shall cause or permit the establishment, or substantial enlargement of an adult entertainment business within 500 feet of any lot in an “A” or “R” zone, or within the “CR”, “C1”, or “C1.5” zones in the City of Los Angeles.
 
   After March 6,1988, no person shall cause or permit the continued operation, maintenance, or use of a lot, building or structure, or any portion thereof as an Adult Arcade, Adult Bookstore, Adult Cabaret, Adult Motel, Adult Motion Picture Theater, Adult Theater, Massage Parlor or Sexual Encounter Establishment, within 500 feet of any lot in an “A” zone or “R” zone, or within the “CR”, “C1” or “C1.5” zones in the City of Los Angeles. (Added by Ord. No. 161,111, Eff. 5/18/86.)
 
   D.   Measurement Of Distance. The distance between any two adult entertainment businesses shall be measured in a straight line, without regard to intervening structures, from the closest exterior structural wall of each business. The distance between any adult entertainment business and any religious institution, school or public park shall be measured in a straight line, without regard to intervening structures, from the closest exterior structural wall of the adult entertainment business to the closest property line of the religious institution, school or public park.
 
   E.   Exceptions.
 
   1.   A person possessing ownership or control of an adult entertainment business which is within 1,000 feet of another such business or within 500 feet of any religious institution, school or public park on the effective date of this ordinance shall be permitted to transfer such ownership or control within two (2) years of said effective date. The person acquiring such ownership or control, however, shall be required to discontinue said adult entertainment business within five (5) years from the date of said transfer of ownership or control, if such business continues to be within 1,000 feet of another such business or within 500 feet of any religious institution, school or public park.
 
   2.   A person possessing ownership or control of an adult entertainment business shall be permitted to transfer such ownership or control if such business is not within 500 feet of any religious institution, school or public park and the only other adult entertainment business or businesses within 1,000 feet of such business have been established under a variance from the requirements of this section, pursuant to the variance provisions set forth in Sec. 13B.5.3. (Variance) of Chapter 1A of this Code. This exception shall not, however, apply to an adult entertainment business which has been established under such a variance. (Amended by Ord. No. 187,712, Eff. 1/23/23, Oper. 1/22/24; Ord. No. 187,930, Eff. 7/7/23.)
 
   3.   Except for an adult entertainment business required to be discontinued pursuant to Subdivision 1. of this subsection, if more than one adult entertainment businesses exists in the same building, structure or portion thereof, then all may be continued until March 10, 1985. At that time all shall be discontinued except those established prior to September 1, 1978; but if none of the adult entertainment businesses were established prior to September 1, 1978, then all shall be discontinued except for one, and in case of a dispute the adult entertainment business established first shall have the priority right to continue.
 
   4.   An adult entertainment business may be continued, or established and maintained, pursuant to Section 12.22 A.20. (Amended by Ord. No. 161,111, Eff. 5/18/86.)
 
   F.   Severability. If any provision or clause of this section or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect other section provisions, clauses or applications thereof which can be implemented without the invalid provision, clause or application thereof, and to this end the provisions and clauses of this section are declared to be severable.
 
 
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