Los Angeles permits agricultural and agrivoltaic solar arrays as accessory uses in R-A (Suburban) zones under LAMC §12.04, with state streamlining provided by California Government Code §65852.27 for small ground-mounted systems on farms.
LAMC §12.04 lists the R-A Suburban zone as the city's primary agricultural designation, allowing field crops, orchards, and accessory structures that support farming. Solar arrays serving on-site agricultural operations qualify as accessory uses and may be ground-mounted within standard yard setbacks. California Government Code §65852.27, added by AB-2243, requires ministerial approval for agrivoltaic projects up to one megawatt that combine grazing or crop production with photovoltaics on Williamson Act or zoned agricultural land. Larger commercial arrays in LA require a conditional use permit. Net metering is administered by LADWP. Hillside, equine-keeping, and Specific Plan overlays add review.
Installing a non-accessory commercial array in R-A without a conditional use permit, exceeding ministerial size limits, or violating Williamson Act contract terms can trigger zoning enforcement, contract cancellation penalties, and removal orders.
Los Angeles, CA
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Los Angeles, CA
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See how Los Angeles's agricultural solar rules stack up against other locations.
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