Per the City of Hawthorne Residential Development Standards, maximum lot coverage is 50% in the R-1 zone. R-2 allows 50% for up to 2 units and 75% for 3 or more; R-3 allows 50% for up to 2 units and 60% for 3 or more; R-4 is 50% for single-family and 60% for multiple units; the Mixed-Use Overlay allows 90%.
Maximum lot coverage in Hawthorne's residential and mixed-use zones is summarized in the City of Hawthorne Residential & Mixed-Use Development Standards Summary Table, drawn from the zoning chapters of the Hawthorne Municipal Code. In the low-density R-1 zone (Chapter 17.14), the maximum lot coverage is 50%. In the medium-density R-2 zone (Chapter 17.16), coverage is 50% for two or fewer dwelling units and 75% for three or more units. In the high-density R-3 zone (Chapter 17.18), coverage is 50% for two or fewer units and 60% for three or more units. In the maximum-density R-4 zone (Chapter 17.19), single-family homes are limited to 50% coverage and multiple-unit projects to 60%. The Mixed-Use Overlay (Chapter 17.87) permits up to 90% lot coverage. These limits work together with setback, height, density, open-space, and parking standards; for example, residential density is tied to lot size and zones also require open space (typically 500 square feet per unit in R-2 through R-4 and 300 square feet per unit in the Mixed-Use Overlay). The summary table directs applicants to consult the Hawthorne Municipal Code or the Department of Planning and Community Development before designing any project, because coverage interacts with other site standards and specific conditions may apply.
Exceeding allowed lot coverage without a variance can cause plan-check rejection, permit denial, and code-enforcement action requiring the project to be reduced in footprint. Coverage variances require planning approval.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle lot coverage limits.
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