The Mello Act (Government Code §65590) and LAMC §12.20.2.4 require one-to-one replacement or in-lieu fees when affordable housing in the LA Coastal Zone is demolished or converted. Inclusionary requirements also apply to new residential development in the coastal zone.
Government Code §65590, the Mello Act, applies to all development in California's coastal zone. Los Angeles implements it through LAMC §12.20.2.4 and the Mello Act Compliance Procedures. Demolition or conversion of low and moderate income housing units requires one-for-one replacement onsite, offsite within three miles, or payment of an in-lieu fee. New residential developments must provide an inclusionary percentage of affordable units when feasible. A Mello Act determination from the Housing Department and City Planning is required before any CDP issues. Covenants record against replacement units for at least 30 years.
Failure to comply blocks Coastal Development Permit issuance and Certificate of Occupancy. Recorded covenants are enforceable; fines and project rescission can follow noncompliance findings.
Los Angeles, CA
Most development in the LA Coastal Zone (Venice, Pacific Palisades, San Pedro) requires a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) under LAMC §12.20.2 and the Califo...
Los Angeles, CA
The Venice Coastal Zone Specific Plan, adopted 1987 and amended 2018 by Ordinance 187715, controls density, height, parking, and design across Venice. It inc...
Los Angeles, CA
The LA Rent Stabilization Ordinance (LAMC Chapter XV) covers buildings with 2+ units built before October 1, 1978, approximately 650,000 units or 70% of rent...
See how Los Angeles's mello act replacement rules stack up against other locations.
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