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Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in New Orleans, LA (2026)

3 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for New Orleans, Louisiana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Specific Plans Overview

Land use in New Orleans is governed by the 2015 Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, a form-based code, implementing the Plan for the 21st Century Master Plan. The CZO replaces the prior 1970 ordinance and creates dozens of base, overlay, and historic core districts.

Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and Master Plan

Some Restrictions

Density Bonus Law

The CZO requires Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning in designated submarkets and offers Voluntary Inclusionary Zoning bonuses citywide. Projects providing affordable units may earn density, height, and parking reductions under Article 28 of the zoning ordinance.

Inclusionary Zoning and Density Bonuses

Some Restrictions

Coastal Zone Permits

Portions of Orleans Parish lie within the Louisiana Coastal Zone established under the State and Local Coastal Resources Management Act, LA RS 49:214.21 et seq. Activities affecting wetlands, water bottoms, or coastal ecosystems require Coastal Use Permits.

Louisiana Coastal Zone Permits in Orleans Parish

Heavy Restrictions