Adaptive Reuse Expansion in Los Angeles: Faster Approvals and More Flexibility
The City of Los Angeles’ new Adaptive Reuse Ordinance is taking effect this year, bringing major changes for commercial real estate. Our BOMA/GLA advocacy team has been engaging directly with Mayor Karen Bass’s staff and advocating for our members on multiple issues.
What You Need to Know
Ordinance key details:
- The new ordinance extends adaptive reuse incentives to all parts of Los Angeles, not just Downtown.
- Buildings 15 years or older can now be converted to housing by right. Newer buildings (5–15 years old) can apply through a faster approval process.
- The ordinance speeds up reviews and removes old rules like minimum unit sizes and overlapping codes.
- Projects now have more freedom in layout and design, making it easier to create innovative, walkable, and healthy buildings.
- Projects with affordable housing can get new benefits. The Linkage Fee still applies to new buildings and conversions.
- The ordinance matches the city’s new zoning rules, making things clearer and more consistent for applicants.
- Reusing existing buildings helps meet sustainability goals and supports economic growth.
How It Impacts You
New Opportunities: The ordinance makes it easier to turn unused offices, retail, and parking into housing.
Faster Timelines: Quicker approvals mean less red tape and faster project completion, helping you put empty buildings back to use sooner.
Stay Connected
We engaged directly with Mayor Bass’s team, who value our partnership and want ongoing collaboration on housing, economic recovery, and public safety.
As the ordinance rolls out, BOMA/GLA members can help city leaders by sharing their expertise to keep policies practical and support growth.
We will continue to push for innovations like self-certification and direct lines of communication with city officials.
Stay tuned for upcoming events, policy updates, and opportunities to engage with city leadership on BOMA on the Frontline.
