How does the density bonus work in Los Angeles?
Ike Mbelu, Principal Partner · Last checked
On this page: The short answer · What state law gives you · What it means in Los Angeles
The short answer
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LAMC §12.22 A.37
5 to 24 percent affordable buys 20 to 50 percent more units
In the City of Los Angeles, the density bonus runs through LAMC §12.22 A.37, in effect since February 11, 2025. On five or more units, set aside 5 percent very low income, 10 percent lower income or 10 percent moderate for-sale, and you earn 20 percent more units, rising to 50. Gov. Code §65915(f).
Have a lot in LA County? Send us the address and we'll tell you what it holds.
What state law gives you
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01
Five units and up
Five or more units, mixed use included. Lower income: 10 percent earns 20, 24 earns 50. Very low income: 5 earns 20, 15 earns 50. §65915(i), (f)(1) and (f)(2).
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02
Concessions the city must grant
The city grants each requested concession absent a written finding based on substantial evidence. §65915(d)(1).
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03
Waivers for standards that block the units
No standard may physically preclude the project at the bonus density. §65915(e)(1).
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04
Parking capped by bedroom count
On request: 1 space up to one bedroom, 1.5 for two or three, 2.5 for four or more, guests included. §65915(p)(1).
What it means in Los Angeles
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Los Angeles
A.25 is now A.37
Section 12.22 A.25 now points to 12.22 A.37, added by Ord. 188,477. Guides citing A.25 are dated.
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Los Angeles
Menu items are ministerial
Base and menu incentives are ministerial, handled by Building and Safety. Waivers go to the City Planning Commission, whose decision is final. LAMC §12.22 A.37(d).
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Los Angeles
Up to four added incentives
Very low income: 5, 10, 15 and 16 percent earn one to four. Lower income: 10, 17 and 24 percent earn one to three. Moderate for-sale: 10, 20, 30 and 45 percent earn one to four. LAMC §12.22 A.37(f)(1).
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Los Angeles
No parking near major transit
No parking within half a mile of a major transit stop. Elsewhere, 1, 1.5 or 2.5 spaces by bedroom count. LAMC §12.22 A.37(e)(2).
South Bay lot? See the density bonus in seven cities, from Hawthorne to Torrance. Single-family lot? SB 9 in Los Angeles.
This is a summary of California law and the Los Angeles Municipal Code, not legal advice. Confirm the current code for your site.
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