Setbacks in LA vary by zoning district under LAMC Chapter I. Typical R1 zone setbacks are 20 ft front, 5 ft side, and 15 ft rear. Hillside areas allow reduced setbacks of 5 ft front and 4 ft side on substandard streets. An encroachment plane at 45 degrees begins 20 ft above setback lines limiting upper story massing. Specific plan areas and overlay zones may impose additional requirements.
Los Angeles zoning ordinance establishes minimum setback distances that structures must maintain from property lines. Typical residential setbacks include 20 to 25 feet front, 5 to 10 feet side, and 15 to 20 feet rear. Corner lots may have increased side setbacks along the street. Accessory structures like sheds and garages often have reduced rear setbacks of 3 to 5 feet. Setbacks vary by zoning district (R-1, R-2, commercial, etc.). Variances require a hearing before the zoning board. Encroachments like eaves and decks may have exceptions.
Building in setback: stop-work order and required correction. Fines $100 to $1,000. May require structure removal at owner expense.
Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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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 setback rules.
See how Los Angeles's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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