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General Plan
County of Los Angeles
General Plan
This Streamlined General Plan is intended to ease user access to key components of the
County of Los Angeles General Pl&L The text included herein is a brief summary of
background materials plus flill planning guidelines. The Goals and Policies of this Stream-
lined General Plan are those current to January, 1993.
As the General Plan is updated over the next decade, portions of this document will be
replaced with new Elements and updated maps.
The following list identifies those Countywide chapters which have had comprehensive
revisions or textual amendments; the list provides the original adoption date and the date of
the last text amendment. All policy maps are current as of January, 1993.
Chapter Adopted Last Amendment
Introduction November25, 1980 December 29, 1987
General Goals
and Policies November25, 1980 January 9, 1990
Conservation and
Open Space November25, 1980 December 4, 1986
Land Use November 25, 1980 January 9, 1990
Housing November 2, 1989 December 17, 1992
Economic Development November25, 1980 December29, 1987
Safety December6,1990
Public Facilities November25, 1980 November 2, 1989
PAGE 2 Show Image
General Plan
County of Los Angeles
General Plan
Department of Regional Planning
320 West Temple Street
Los Angeles, California 90012
January 1993
Board of Supervisors
Edmund D. Edelman, Chainnan, Third Supervisorial District
Gloria Molina, Supervisor, First Supervisorial District
Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, Supervisor, Second Supervisorial District
Deane Dana, Supervisor, Fourth Supervisorial District
Michael D. Antonovich, Supervisor, Fifth Supervisorial District
Regional Planning Commission
Richard C. Wulliger, Chairman
Patricia J. Russell, Vice Chainnan
Sadie B. Clark
J. Paul Robinson, AIA
Rene Santiago
Department of Regional Planning
James E. Hartl, MCP, Director ofFlanning
Jon Sanabria, Chief Deputy Director
Ted Elias, A~~ninistrator, Management and Fiscal Services
John Schwarze, A~hnirnsfrator, Current Planning
Rudy Lackner, A~~ninisfrator, Land Use Regulation
Geoffrey Taylor, A~bninisfrator, Advance Planning/Infonnation Systems
½'
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 3 Show Image
Introduction I
General Goals and Policies G
Land Use LU
Circulation C
Housing H
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation OS
Noise N
Safety S
Public Facilities PF
Economic Development ED
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Infroduefion
Introduction
The complete text for the Introduction Chapter can be found in the
Background Repo~ This Chapter was adopted on November 25,
1980. The last text amendment was adopted on December 29,1987.
½~
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
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Introduction
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Overview..........................................................1-1
B. Components of the General Plan....................................1-2
C. How to Use the General Plan.......................................1-3
D. General Plan Policy Maps..........................................1-4
E. Relation to Other Plans, Policies and Programs....................1-4
F. Levels of Planning................................................1-5
1. Couritwide and Local Guidance................................1-5
2. Planning Areas...............................................1-7
G. Projections for the General Plan..................................1-7
1. Population Projections.......................................1-8
2. Housing Projections..........................................1-8
3. Employment Projections......................................1-li
County o~ Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN I-i
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Introduction
List of Tables
Title Page
I-i Population Projections by Planning Area...........................1-9
1-2 Housing Projections by Planning Area.............................1-10
1-3 Employment Projections by Planning Area..........................1-12
List of Figures
Title Page
I-i Components of Los Angeles County General Plan.....................1-2
1-2 Los Angeles County Unincorporated Areas...........................1-5
1-3 Los Angeles County Planning Areas.................................1-7
14 Projected Increase in Population...................................1-9
1-5 Projected Increase in Housing Units..............................1-10
1-6 Projected Increase in Number of Jobs.............................I-li
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN I-il
PAGE 7 Show Image
Infroduction
A. Overview
easier to use. For more detailed treatment
On November 25, 1980, the Board of of issues, concepts and technical data, it is
Supervisors unamimously adopted the necessaiy to consult the complete "Back-
countywide chapters and elements of the gmund Report" found in a separate binder
County of Los Angeles General Plan, (also, please refer to Components of the _____________
including accompanying diagrams General Plan, Section B, page 1-2). The Streamlined
(policy maps), and firm which this General Plan is
document was prepared. Elements adopted prior to 1980-Noise, intended to be
Scenic Highway, Regional Recreation, clearer and easier
This document is a streamlined version of and Plan of Bikeways-are also included to use
the adopted General plan in the County in this stremlined general plan.
of Los Angeles, and is entided the
"County of Los Angeles General Plan". It This strealnlined Plan is a unified state-
focuses on goals and policies and is ment of public policy for use in making
intended to make the Plan clearer and decisions on critical public issues.
A multitude of land uses intermingle on the broad Los Angeles basin.
I-1
PAGE 8 Show Image
Introduction
The Plan provides a framework for The General Plan is primarily a public
coordinating short and medium range interest tool for initiating and respond-
actions designed to meet needs and to ing to change.
prevent problems from becoming
crises. This streamlined version of the Plan
provides the foundation document for
It sets forth guidelines for how the future updates of the General Plan. As
County of Los Angeles should allocate Countywide and Local Plan chapters
its resources in meeting identified are adopted, they will be inserted into
needs over the next few decades. the Plan. For example, when adopted,
the updated Safety Element will
replace the current Safety and Seismic
Safety Elements in the General Plan.
Figure I-i The three current Local Plan chapters
Components of the that have been updated in the new for-
mat are Altadena, Walnut Paik, and
County of Los Angeles General Plan East Los Angeles.
In order to facilitate a smooth transition
County of Los Angeles from the current form of the General
General Plan Plan (contained in its entirety in the
Background Report) to an updated plan
in a streamlined format, a General Plan
"Update Manual" has been prepared. It
contains guidance for making this tran-
GENERAL PLAN . sitioninformat.
_____________ B. Components of the
~ General Plan
The General Plan consists of four docu-
~.......................ments, as shown in Figure I-i.
1. This streamlined version of the
adopted General Plan which focuses
on goals and policies and contains
Local Plans (Altadena and Walnut
1-2
PAGE 9 Show Image
Introduction
Park) that meet the specifications of titled "Background Report1t and 1'En-
the Update Manual. vironmental Document"
2. The Background Report: the com-
plete, adopted General Plan which C. How to Use the
will gradually change as the substan-
tive Plan update occurs. The Back- General Plan
ground Report also contains technical
reports and data that support the
General Plan. The Plan is general in nature and it is,
therefore, necessary to interpret its in-
3. Implementation: a summary of im- tent. The goals and policies of the
plementation programs and actions. chapters are the primary resources to
determine the intent.
4. Environmental Document: a col-
lection of the environmental analysis The Plan provides general policy direc-
and actions that support the General tion for the fliture of the County; it is
Plan. not a detailed blueprint for action.
Nevertheless, it should be used by
Each of these documents is kept in a government for guidance in making
separate binder. It is the intent of this day to day decisions to ensure the effec-
General Plan to provide direct access to tive use of public resources and to flir-
the current policies and development ther the public interest. The Plan is the
standards used most commonly in land tool to guide decision-making related
use and development decisions. As to overall land use direction and
the substantive General Plan update oc- development in the county.
curs, portions and eventually all of this _______________
Plan will be replaced with newer sec- The General Plan serves as an advisory The General Plan
tions. document to provide decision-makers
with a policy framework to guide is an advisory
The County of Los Angeles General specific incremental decisions to move document that
Plan encompasses all State mandated toward achievement of the Plan's states policy to
elements and selected optional ele- stated goals and policies. At the time guide
specific decisions are made, such as on decision-making
ments. The Plan also includes im- for the fi'ture of
plementation programs and actions that land use, the construction of a new Los Angeles
are located in a separate binder entitled highway or an urban renewal project, County.
"Implementation" and technical sup- the appropriate decision-making
port material found in two binders en- authority must interpret and weigh
- 1-3
PAGE 10 Show Image
Introduction
various Plan policies based on the best protect the County's natural resources
information available at the time. (e.g., open space, ecologically sig-
Thus, the General Plan neither nificant lands, and hillsides). Thus, the
promises nor guarantees the achieve- allowable number of units or intensity
ment of a particular goal nor strict ad- of development on a land parcel is to
herence to any single policy statement. be determined using the designations
on the appropriate land use policy map.
The Plan's goals and policies are the
result of considerable citizen involve- Units may be transferred internally in a
ment and professional analysis. They project (regardless of urban or non-
represent a determination, based on ex- urban designation) when geological or
isting data and expectations, of what topographical data support the need.
_______________ ge~ieral course of action should be fol- The change is for the puipose of better
lowed to achieve the kind of environ- design and permitted only when it does
General Plan ment County citizens wish to be not increase the number of units or af-
policy maps are a realized in the future. fect health and safety detrimentally.
graphic
representation of The text, which indicates policy direc-
policies. tion, and the policy maps, which reflect E. Relation to Other Plans
location and pattern, combine to show
the basic intent of the Plan. Policies and Pmgrams
D. General Plan Policy `IlLos Angeles County, special dis-
tricts make many decisions related to
Maps urban services and facilities and collec-
tively appropriate large sums for capi-
tal improvements.
General Plan maps are graphic state-
ments of policy, and are intended to be The General Plan provides these dis-
general, not precise, policy statements. tricts with information on the develop-
ment potential of areas in the County
The putpose of the Plan policy maps is and advises them of County policy.
to express textual policy in diagram Regional agencies, such as the
form, and to depict the general distribu- Southern California Rapid Transit Dis-
tion, location and extent of the uses of trict, the Metropolitan Water District,
the land in Los Angeles County. The and the Southern California Associa-
designations placed within the policy tion of Governments, are responsible
lines reflect infrastructure, hazard, and for coordinating with city and county
resource limitations of the County and governments on policies and programs.
1-4
PAGE 11 Show Image
Introduction
The decisions of these agencies often Countywide chapters influence, and are
affect the County's urban form and influenced by, suirounding areas. Such
development. issues as freeway and roadway align-
ments, for instance, require coordina-
State and federal agencies have taken tion with other counties and cities
an active part in environmental protec- located within Los Angeles County.
tion and resource conservation. Their Although the County's Plan has
involvement has had an increasing im- regulatory impacts on the type of
pact on the County's population development within unincorporated
growth, urban development, and hous- areas, it also depends on and provides
ing and transportation policies. The decision-making tools for cities and sur-
General Plan is an instrument for rounding counties (Figure 1-2).
making local policy known to higher
levels of government and for estab- The Countywide Chapters and Ele-
lishing policy positions on issues of ments and their dates of adoption are
regional, state and national significance. listed on the following page.
of Planning Figure 1-2
r. IA~veiS Los Angeles County Unincorporated Areas
1. Countywide and Local
Guidance
The General Plan provides land use
guidance at two levels: 1) countywide;
and 2) local. The adopted countywide
elements set regional direction for land
use decisions while adopted "Local .. -.-.
Plans'1 (`)reviously referred to as
Areawide or Community Plans)
provide focused attention on a smaller -
scale. The countywide chapters and
½
elements constitute a collective policy ½ ½
w
statement addressing issues of coun
tywide or regional importance that can
not be resolved at the local level. ifi Unincorporated Areas
z] Incorporated Areas
1-5
PAGE 12 Show Image
Introduction
* Introduction (11,25/1980) * Hacienda Heights (adopted 1978)
* General Goals and Policies * Rowland Heights (adopted 1981)
(11/25/1980) * Santa Monica Mountains
* Land Use Element (11/25/1980) (adopted 1981)
* Circulation Element (combining * Santa Catalina (adopted 1982)
the Transportation Element * Marina del Rey/Ballona (adopted
_____________ adoptedll/25/1980,the Scenic 1982)
Highways Element adopted * Diamond Bar (adopted 1983)
The two levels of 1/30/1975, and the Plan of * Catalina Island (adopted 1983)
planning that the Bikeways adopted 9/18/1975) * Santa Clarita Valley (adopted
General Plan * 12/4/86 Housing Element 1977 and updated 1984)
addresses are
"Countywide" and * (12/4/1986) * Antelope Valley (adopted 1985)
Conservation, Open Space and * Altadena (adopted 1986)
"Local ". Recreation Element (combining * Walnut Park (adopted 1986)
the adopted Conservation and * East Los Angeles (adopted 1978
Open Space Element adopted and updated in 1988)
11/25/1980 and the Regional * Castaic Corridor (completed
Recreation Areas Plan adopted 1988)
3/30/1965) * Westmont Community (initiated
* NoiseElement(1/30/1975) 1988)
* Safety Element (combining the
adopted Safety and Seismic There are, in addition, a number of
Safety Elements, both adopted on other local and community planning
1/30/1975) programs envisioned in the coming
* Public Facilities Element years. Upon adoption, such plans wrn
(11/25/1980 and previously en- be formally incoxporated as Local Plan
titled "Water and Waste Manage- Chapters of the General Plan.
ment Element")
* Economic Development Element Adopted local plans establish detailed
(7/21/1987) standards and criteria tailored to condi-
tions within the community, and are
Local Plans constitute the primary consistent with the general countywide
tools for guiding decisions relative to provisions. In those instances where a
local land use and development pat- decision involves both local and
terns. regional concerns, it is the countywide
component that sets the broad policy
As of 3une 1988, the Local Plans parameters while local plans provide
adopted or in preparation include the more specific direction. The local
following: plans are refmements of some of the
1-6
PAGE 13 Show Image
Introduction
more important regional issues that the G. Projections for the
countywide chapters and elements ad- Projections rely
dress. General Plan on an analysis of
data. Based on
this analysis, one
2. Planning Areas The growth policies of the General possible view of
Plan consist of a set of projections for the~ture Los
The General Plan also contains population, housing, and employment. Angeles County is
These projections do not predict the fli- selected. The
guidelines for major planning areas ture. Rather, they represent a selection projections
which'iIik countywide policies to of one among many possible alterna- provide a basis for
those of cities and unincorporated com- tive flitures, based on a careflil analysis updating the
munities. The planning areas include about what may happen in the years General Plan.
the following: ahead.
* SanFernando
* Burbanl~~Glendale
* West San Gabriel Valley Figure 1-3
* East San Gabriel Valley Los Angeles County Planning Areas
* Malibu/Santa Monica Mountains
* West
* Central
* EastCentral
* Southeast ANTE~OpE~Y
* South
-. I
* Southwest
* Antelope Valley
* Santa Clarita Valley
* National Forests
* The Channel Islands
The Major Planning Areas are shown
in Figure 1-3.
Planning Area Boundary
-~ National Forest Boundary
1-7
PAGE 14 Show Image
Introduction
The projections are based on an 8,209,000; it is projected to be ap-
analysis of existing conditions, land proximately 9,900,000 by the year
suitability, and significant 2010. The overall increase is projected
demographic, economic, housing, and to occur largely due to natural in-
land use trends. The trends, in turn, creases in population.
are modified by policies found
throughout the Plan and intended to Migration is the most volatile and dif-
alter detrimental conditions or ficult of the components of population
strengthen favorable trends and condi- change to predict. While in-migration
tions that are beneficial to the public. has played a significant role in the
Consequently, the projections ap- recent growth cycle of the past decade,
proximate what may occur if achieve- in-migration is expected to slow over
ment is made in realizing the objectives the next few years and turn to a net out-
and policies of the Plan. migration by the end of the projection
period.
The technical task of projecting growth
into the future is not an exact science. Figure 14 depicts the planning areas
There is no such thing as a "right" or which will experience the greatest ab-
"correct" projection, in the sense that it solute population growth. Table I-i
will be an accurate prediction of what shows the population projections by
will actually occur in the future. Planning Area.
Figures 14,1-5 and 1-6 (found on pages
1-9,1-10 and I-li) highlight the six 2. Housing Projections
planning areas with the largest absolute
changes anticipated, expressed as a per- Housing projections for Los Angeles
centage of total projected Countywide County (Figure 1-5) were influenced by
growth. Accompanying tables (Tables the population projections. The projec-
1-1,1-2 and 1-3) detail projected growth tions indicate a net increase of 679,000
for each of the 14 planning areas. A housing units by the year 2010. The
notable aspect of planning area growth net change reflects a long4erm trend
is the wide variation in percentage of toward medium density housing con-
change among them. struction and the policy of promoting a
more concentrated urban form. Table
1-2 shows housing projections by Plan-
1. Population Projections fling Area.
The 1987 estimated population for Los
Angeles County is apprbximately
1-8
PAGE 15 Show Image
Introduction
Figure 14
Los Angeles County
Proj ected Increase in Population Figure 1-4
highlights the
(1987-2010) areas of largest
San Fernaido population growth
168,000 as a percentage of
(10%)
E. San ~briei Valley Antdope Valley total County
250,000 growth. Table I-i
(15%) (9%)
Central Santa Clarita Valley shows a wide
217,700 150,000 range (9.1% to
(13%) (9%) 125.0%) ofanti-
pated percentage
(9%) Other change among
597,300 planning areas.
(36%)
Table I-i
Population Projections by Planning Area
1987-2010
Change in 1987-2010
No. of Percent
Planning Area 1987 2010 Persons Change
Santa Clarita Valley 120,000 270,000 150,000 125.0%
Antelope Valley 146,000 305,000 159,000 108.9%
San Fernando 867,000 1,035,000 168,000 19A%
BurbanklGlendale 616,000 705,000 89,000 14A%
West San Gabriel Valley 758,000 880,000 122,000 16.1%
East San Gabriel Valley 785,000 1,035,000 250,000 31.8%
Malibu/Santa Monica Muis. 65,000 100,000 35,000 53.8%
West 424,000 505,000 81,000 19.1%
Central 1,582,000 1,800,000 217,700 13.8%
East Central 755,000 855,000 100,000 13.2%
Southeast 644,000 745,000 101,000 15.7%
South 711,000 860,000 149,000 21.0%
Southwest 733,300 800,000 67,000 9.1%
channel Islands 2,700 5,0001 2,300 85.2%
Los Angeles County 8,209,000 9,900,000w 1,691,000 20.6%
1 The projection for the Channel Islands assumes that all growth will take place on Santa Catalina Island.
2 The baseline data for these projections includes adjustments since 1980 for undocwnented aliens; it is
esiunated that almost SOO,Oo0 such persons were counted as part of the 1980 Census.
1-9
PAGE 16 Show Image
Introduction
1-5
Figure 1-5 indi- IAs Angeles County
cates the areas of Projected Increase in Housing
greatest housing (1987-2010)
growth in relation San Fernando
to the County
total. Table 1-2 E. San Gabriel Valley Antelope
shows an even 8(e) 63(;~%)
wider range of Ceutmi Santa Clarita Valley
planning area 92,2w 55,9..
change (11.1% to (14%) (8%)
149.1%) than with
population growth.
244w"
(35%)
Table 1-2
Housing Unit Projections by Planning Area
1987-2010
Change 1987-2010
in No. Percent
Planning Area 1987 2010 of Units Change
Santa Clarita Valley 37,500 93,400 55,900 149.1%
AntelopeValley 55,700 118,700 63,000 113.1%
SanFernando 334,500 409,100 74,600 22.3%
Burbanl~~Glendale 257,800 300,000 42,200 16A%
W. San Gabriel Valley 271,000 320,000 49,000 18.1%
E. San Gabriel Valley 248,000 333,900 85,900 34.6%
MalibuJSanta Monica Mtns. 23,800 37,300 13,500 56.7%
West 204,400 240,500 36,100 17.7%
Central 592,200 684,400 92,200 15.6%
EastCentral 217,600 249,300 31,700 14.6%
Southeast 214,900 253,400 38,500 17.9%
South 274,300 337,300 63,000 23.0%
Southwest 290,200 322,600 32,400 11.2%
channel Islands 1,600 2,600 1,000 62.5%
Los Angeles County 3,023,500 3,702,500 679,000 22.5%
1-10
PAGE 17 Show Image
Introduction
Los Angeles County
Proj ected Increase in Number of Jobs Figure 1-6
displays the areas
(1987-2010) of highest employ-
ment growth in
~ San Gabdel Valley relation to the
209,~ County
(14%) W San Gabdel Valley total.
EIStCentI~I Table 1-3 indi-
119,".
(8%) San Fernando cates a variation
Saudaeast 1'8(13~ in employment
1(4'i~".%) growth (73% to
South 246.9%) that far
15.,~ exceeds the ranges
517,8w for eitherpopula-
(36%) tion or housing.
3. Employment Projections
It is estimated that the number of jobs
in Los Angeles County will increase by
1,471,000 through the year 2010
(Figure 1-6). Job projections were allo-
cated to planning areas Crable 1-3, page
I-i 2) on the basis of local trends in job
growth (which indicate demand for
jobs) and the availability of land (sites
or locations) for jobs, both of which
were influenced by Plan policies. Rela-
tive changes in populatioMiousing and
employment at the planning area level
will have an important intact on even-
tual jobsIWousing balance patterns
within the County.
I-li
PAGE 18 Show Image
Introduction
Table 1-3
Employment Projections by Planning Area
1987-2010
Change 1987-2010
in No. Percent
Planning Area 1987 2010 of Jobs Change
Santa Clarita Valley 32,000 111,000 79,000 246.9%
Antelope Valley 53,000 153,000 100,000 188.7%
SanFernando 361,000 559,000 198,000 54.8%
Burbanl~~Glendale 309,000 395,000 86,000 27.8%
W. San Gabriel Valley 344,000 475,000 131,000 38.1%
E. San Gabriel Valley 298,000 507,000 209,000 70.1%
Malibu/Santa Monica Mtns. 19,000 47,000 28,000 147A%
West 276,000 328,000 52,000 18.8%
Central 1,074,000 1,152,000 78,000 7.3%
East Central 454,000 573,000 119,000 26.2%
Southeast 279,000 425,000 146,000 52.3%
South 357,000 507,000 150,000 42.0%
Southwest 451,000 544,000 93,000 20.6%
channellslands 1,800 3,600 1,800 100.0%
Los Angeles County 4,308,800 5,779,600 1,470,800 34.1%
1-12
PAGE 19 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
General Goals and Policies
The complete text for the General Goals and Policies
Chapter can be found in the Background Repoit This
Chapter was adopted on November 25,1980. The last text
amendment was adopted on January 9,1990.
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 20 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction..................................................G-1
B. Background....................................................G-I
1. Location and Natural Setting.............................0-1
2. Urban Character..........................................0-1
3.ThePeople.................................................0-2
4. The Economy..............................................0-2
5. Recent Trends............................................0-2
C. General Plan Policy Maps......................................0-3
1. General Development Policy Map...........................0-3
2. UrbanFormPolicyMap.......................................0-3
D. Goals and Policies............................................0-4
E.Glossary......................................................G-lO
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN G-i
PAGE 21 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
A. Introduction fire dangers. Finally, the proximity of
plains and rugged mountains coupled
with heavy seasonal rainfall create the
Goals are a link between needs and threat of flooding. Despite such
policies and implementation. The liabilities, a 1980 national survey
general goals express the overall direc- ranked the county in the top third of 90
tion of the General Plan and its ele- major metropolitan areas in terms of its
ments. The locations of all features quality of life.
and boundaries shown on the policy
maps are general and diagrammatic in
character. The scale of countywide 2. Urban Character
policy maps do not allow small parcels
to be shown clearly. Thus, the charac- Los Angeles is distinguished from
ter of areas less than 50 acres in size is other large metropolitan areas by its ex-
not generally determinable from the tensive freeway system, a result of the
maps. For these reasons, the policy
maps should not be interpreted literally. public's commitment to the
automobile; a great variety in ornamen-
tal vegetation introduced from around
the world; and its orientation toward
B. Background outdoor living symbolized in part by
the fme system of public beaches.
Relative newness and modernity are
1. Location and Natural Setting major aspects of the image of the urban
ares
The County of Los Angeles has a rich Nearly all of the region has been built
and diverse natural environment whose
beauty has attracted people and, with smce 1900, and over 70% of the urban
county's development has occurred since 1940.
them, new development. The The distribution of development differs
temperate Mediterranean climate and from most other large American urban
varied landscape also support diverse
areas in that the county 5 suburbs tend
biological resources.
to be more intensely developed, while
inner city areas are relatively less inten-
Part of this complex natural environ- sely developed. Single family housing
ment includes liabilities. The land is has been characteristic of the Los An-
subject to seismic activity and geles urban form, but its low profile is
peculiarities in terrain make the county punctuated by numerous high intensity
susceptible to air pollution. The arid
climate results in potential water centers, a growing number of which
shortages and, in the hillsides, wildland contain clusters of high rise buildings.
G-1
PAGE 22 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
These clusters make Los Angeles a Today, the county has a diversified
multi-centered metropolis. economy with strong manufacturing,
services and trade sectors, internation-
al business and finance, coinmunica-
3. The People tion (television and movies),
transportation, and electronics and
The cultural variety of the people is a aerospace).
primary influence on the character of
the county. Influenced by a number of
great migratory flows, the more than 5. Recent Trends
eight rnilljon people are a unique and
exciting mixture. Some of the major Some of the key trends that can be fol-
ethnic and racial communities include: lowed in the county relate to jobs, hous-
Mexican, Black, Anglo, Chinese, ing, transportation, resources and
3ewish, 3apanese, Cuban, Korean, and environmental considerations.
Filipino. The cultural distinctions, in-
come differences, occupational ex- Long term job growth has continued at
periences and educational backgrounds a healthy pace and business firm out-
greatly increase the rich human diver- migration has declined. New business
sity and social values in the county. formation, expansion of existing in-
dustries and in-migration of finns have
shown an increase during the late
4. The Economy seventies, although an apparent
shortiage of industrial lands has
The county has the second largest emerged. Inflation has had a far reach-
metropolitan economy in the nation ing impact and has reduced the living
and one of the largest markets for standards for many people with fixed
goods and services in the world. Major incomes. Unemployment has remained
features of the economy include: one of a serious problem among minorities.
the world's greatest concentration on
high technology industry supported by Housing supply has increased sig-
advanced research and education- nificantly, although the volume of con-
many struction is dramatically lower than
al institutions; a high proportion of
during the boom years of the 1950's.
employment concentrated in services, A trend reflecting a decline in
trades and professions; rapid innova- household size means that substantially
tion and change; and an emphasis on
education and research as economic ac- more housing is needed to serve ap-
tivities. proximately the same level of popula-
tion. The cost of housing has risen
G-2
PAGE 23 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
sharply and deterioration of housing C. General Plan Policy
built in the 1940's and 1950's is ac-
celerating; thus, many low and Maps
moderate income households cannot
fmd adequate housing. These maps are based on statements of
The auto remains the principal mode of general policy, plan projections and
travel in the county, but the costs of adopted plans for both cities and unin-
buying and operating a car are increas corporated areas. They indicate
ing. New freeway construction has vir- geographic aspects of policy and are
general and diagrammatic in character.
tually ceased. The number of people The Plan maps for General Goals and
needing public transportation is grow- Policies chapter are located at the end
ing, but the quality of service remains of this chapter. A filil explanation of
low in many areas.
map legends appears on the back of
The era of cheap, abundant resources is each map.
ending. Prirne developable land is
growing scarce and expensive. The
price of other key resources is also in- 1. General Development Policy
creasing. Old environmental problems Map
have persisted as new ones have sur-
faced. Air pollution remains a critical This map supports the text by indicat-
issue despite improvements in condi- ing areas in which urban development
tions. Limited headway has been made is appropriate and those which should
in reducing urban blight. Earthquakes, remain non-urban until the year 2010.
oil spills, mudslides, floods, and fires Within the urban areas, designations in-
have demonstrated the urban area's vul- dicate where rehabilitation and recy-
nerability to natural and man-caused cling are encouraged; where
disasters. Urban development has maintenance of existing development
encroached upon natural areas and the character is supported; and where new
coastline. development through infilling or urban
expansion is appropriate.
2. Urban Form Policy Map
This map establishes plan policy on the
organization and panem of the
metropolitan area. It deals with the
G-3
PAGE 24 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
relative magnitude and character of 5. Promote a balanced mix of dwell-
centers, the regional core, linear ac- ing unit types to meet present and fli-
tivity areas and other form features. ture needs, with emphasis on family
owned, moderate density dwelling
units (twinhomes, townhouses and
D. Goals and Policies garden condominiums at garden
apartment densities).
Equal Opportunity 6. Promote open and free choice of
housing for all.
Goal: Full and equal opportunity.
7. Promote the provision of an ade-
Policies quate supply of housing by location,
type and price.
1. Eradicate discrimination in hous-
ing, jobs and income, education, 8. Promote improved economic and
recreation, and other facets of employment opportutities for
living, and guarantee flill and equal youth, ethnicfracial minorities,
opportunity in order to promote in- women, the handicapped and the
dividual and group development. elderly.
______________ 2. Improve employment and educa- 9. Encourage improvements in job
tional opportunities for minorities skills to enhance opportunities for
The General Plan and the disadvantaged through af- the underemployed.
Policy Maps for firmative action programs.
General Goals Environmental Protection
and Policies 3. Maximize individual and family
provide an overall self-support and reduce the need for Goal: Conservation of resources and
view of the institutional treatment of needy, dis- environmentalprotection.
developmentpat- abled, and handicapped people by
tern and form for providing adequate facilities and ser- Policies
the~ture. vices in the community.
10. Encourage cultural and social
4. Emphasize the location of low diversity and the preservation of the
and moderate income housing cultural heritage of Los Angeles
within easy commuting range of County.
multipurpose and single purpose
centers with high concentrations of
employment.
G-4
PAGE 25 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
11. Encourage the maintenance and
enhancement of cultural values and
the ethnic variety of communities.
12. Accept and plan for a level and
rate of population and economic
growth consistent with improved en-
vironmental quality and the
availability of air, water and energy
resources.
13. Promote a distribution ofpopula-
tion consistent with service system
capacity, resource availability, en-
vironmental limitations and acces-
sibility. Amenities such as this quiet lake should be protected where possible.
14. Direct urban development and
revitalization efforts to protect 19. Restore and protect air quality
natural and man-made amenities through the control of industrial and
and to avoid severe hazard areas, vehicular emissions, improved land
such as flood prone areas, active use management, energy conserva-
fault zones, steep hillsides, land- tion and tran~ortation planning.
slide areas and fire hazard areas.
20. Promote more effective recy-
15. Protect areas that have sig- cling and reuse of resources, espe-
nificant natural resources and scenic cially those that are nonrenewable.
values, including significant ecologi-
cal areas, the coastal zone and prime 21. Stress the development of com-
agricultural lands. munity paiks particularly in areas of
the greatest deficiency, and take ad-
16. Protect cultural heritage resour- vantage of opportunities to preserve
ces. large natural and scenic areas.
17. Conserve energy to ensure ade- 22. Promote the efficient use of land
quate supplies for future use. through a more concentrated pattern
of urban development, including the
18. Conserve the available supply of focusing of new urban growth into
water and protect water quality. areas of suitable land.
G-5
PAGE 26 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
23. Ensure that development in non- 24. Encourage the development of
urban areas is compatible with rural ethnic community theme centers
lifestyles, does not necessitate the that would preserve and enhance cul-
expansion of urban service systems, tural diversity.
and does not cause significant
negative environmental impacts or 25. Support the development of a
subject people and property to tran~)ortation system that wrn
serious hazards. make a positive contribution to the
improvement of air quality.
26. Promote the development and
use of new and improved water and
$ waste management technology.
4 Revitalization
Goal: Urban areas revitalized.
Policies
27. Promote a reversal of the trend
toward population losses in older
urbanareas.
28. Revitalize declining portions of
existing urban development, with
particular attention to deteriorated
industrial and low income residen-
tial areas.
29. Maintain and conserve sound ex-
isting development.
30. Promote compatible, environ-
mentally sensitive development of
the by-passed vacant land in urban
areas.
Ethnic centers such as the fapaneseAmerican Cultural and Community 31. Give priority to the development
Center are encouraged. and enhancement of regional centers
G-6
PAGE 27 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
located in, or near, high priority 39. Emphasize the preservation, con-
revitalization and heavy main- servation, and maintenance of stable
tenance areas. residential areas.
32. Promote the preservation and en- 40. Promote the rehabilitation and
hancement of landmarks, sites, and revitalization of deteriorating neigh-
areas of cultural, historical, ar- borhoods.
chaeological and urban design sig-
niiicance. 41. Encourage the provision of ade-
quate rental housing.
33. Protect and enhance the visual
uniqueness of natural edges and en-
courage superior design of major
entryways.
34. Preserve sound residential areas
and protect them from intrusion of
incompatible uses.
35. Increase the availability of low
and moderate income housing and
encourage its distribution
throughout the urban area.
36. Emphasize development of an
improved public transportation sys A once declining area has become a regional governmental and cultural
tern that will support urban hub.
revitalization.
37. Give priority to upgrading exist- 42. Foster rehabilitation rather than
ing facilities and services in areas replacement of housing units
needing or undergoing revitalization wherever economically feasible and
or lacking adequate facilities. consistent with neighborhood plans.
38. Encourage the retention of jobs Economy and Employment
and investments in older urban areas
and prevent losses to other counties, Goal: A strong, diversified economy
regions and states. andft£ll emplQvment.
G-7
PAGE 28 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
Policies 49. Encourage the development of
regional multipuxpose centers that
43. Maintain a balance between in- provide a diversity of public and
creased intensity of development pfivate services to the communities
and the capacity of needed facilities they serve.
such as transportation, water and
sewage systems. 50. Encourage the location of
employment opportwiities in
44. Ensure that new development in regional centers and in the regional
urban expansion areas will occur in core and linear activity areas.
a manner consistent with stated plan
policies and will pay for the expan- 51. Encourage the location of
sion costs that it generates. Cibis is medium and high density housing in
not intended to preclude the public close proximity to regional multi-
subsidization of low and moderate purpose centers.
income housing which may require
special consideration.) 52. Promote the development of an
improved public transportation sys-
45. Focus intensive urban uses in an tem to link regional centers.
interdependent system of activity
centers located to effectively 53. Emphasize the location of low
provide services throughout the and moderate income housing
urban area and supported by ade- within easy commuting range of
quate public transportation facilities. miultipurpose and single purpose
centers with high concentrations of
______________ 46. Foster community identity and employment.
improve environmental quality by
Policies help the compatible interrelation of a sys- 54. Promote the development of
dfrect resources tem of centers, major transportation community transit systems that
towards areas that facilities and open space areas. would link residential areas to ser-
need special aaen- vice and job centers, and serve as a
tion or towards 47. Promote the recognition and or- feeder system to the public transpor-
areas that need to derly development of the regional tation system.
be maintained. core and linear activity areas.
55. Promote the development of in-
48. Maintain and reinforce the multi- temal circulation systems in multi-
focused pattern of regional linear ac- purpose centers.
tivity areas and centers.
56. Upgrade the existing road sys-
tem in a manner consistent with the
G-8
PAGE 29 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
policies and strategies of the plan 65. Promote jobs within commuting
for resource protection and urban range of urban residential areas in
development. order to reduce commuting time,
save energy, reduce air pollution
57. Promote the completion of gaps and improve public convenience.
or missing segments in partially
completed freeways. 66. Improve communication be-
tween government and citizens by
58. Provide for more efficient multi- soliciting greater citizen involve-
modal use of the current freeway ment in public affairs, and by in-
system. creasing the sensitivity and
responsiveness of government to
59. Encourage the development and citizen needs and values.
improvement of community level
transit systems. 67. Promote an equitable distribu-
tion of the costs and benefits of
60. Promote the filil use of existing governmental actions.
service systems in order to gain
maximum benefit from previous 68. Improve the effectiveness of in-
public investments. tergovemmental coordination.
61. Extend new urban facilities and 69. Maximize the coordination of
services only where new urban public and private activities for so-
development is planned and per- cial, economic and environmental
mitted. improvements.
62. Improve the quality and acces- 70. Encourage the annexation of
sibility of critical urban services in- small urban unincorporated islands
cluding crime control, health, that lie within cities' spheres of in-
recreational and educational ser- fluence.
vices.
63. Maintain high quality emergen-
cy response services.
64. Encourage a strong diversified
economy that will provide business
opportunities, an adequate number
of jobs for this county's labor force
__ and an improved standard of living.
G-9
PAGE 30 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
E. Glossary General Plan
The Plan is an officially adopted state-
ment of public policy. It contains a
Blight statement of development policies and
A visible manifestation of deteriorat- includes diagrams and text setting
ing or dilapidated urban environment forth objectives, principles, standards
caused by such factors as improper and and plan proposals.
misused maintenance. On the com-
munity level, blight is syit~~tomatic of Goal
negative environmental and social con- A general expression of an ideal or
ditions, such as unemployment, over- value toward which effort is directed
crowding and poor public and private for achievement; a long teim end state
services. or target.
Development Inner City
The establishment of an activity, use That part of a metropolitan area which
or flinction on a given unit of land, contains the historic center of the area.
either urban or non-urban in character. It usually contains the oldest and the
most mtensively developed parts of the
Element metropolis. In the case of older cities,
A major component of the General it is characterized by the presence of,
Plan. California law now requires the or the need for, substantial rehabilita-
following mandatory elements: land tion and recycling activities.
use, circulation, housing, conservation,
open space, noise and safety. Maintenance
The making of nonnal repairs to a
Environment building to keep it in good repair and
The surn of all natural and man-made sound condition, generally without
conditions external to an organisin or major structural alterations, or replace-
comrnunity, which influences its ment of major Systems such as electri-
growth and development. cal wiring or plumbing.
Expansion Cost Non-urban
The capital cost of constructing the A way of life characterized by living
smallest facility acceptable to the ser- in a non-urban or agricultural environ-
vice provider. The expansion costs for ment at low densities without typical
schools, fire, sewerage, and libraries urban services. Urban services and
are included in the Development facilities not normally found in niral
Monitoring System. areas mclude curbs, gutters and
sidewallls; street lighting, landscaping
G-1O
PAGE 31 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
and traffic signalization; public solid Resource
waste disposal, integrated water and Any material, structure, process or con-
sewerage systems; mass public transit; dition considered to have value. It
and commercial facilities dependent on may be man-made or natural, such as
large consumer volumes such as water, land, air, climate, minerals,
regional shopping centers, sorts structures or facilities.
stadia and theaters. For the plan maps,
residential densities less than one Revitalization
dwelling unit per acre are generally A comprehensive approach to the
considered rural. problem of urban decline, involving
the elimination of adverse social condi-
Policy tions and blight in a neighborhood ar
An expression of government commit- area and the creation of community as-
ment to a course of action intended to sets and positive social conditions
reach a goal or goals. through recycling, rehabilitation, con-
servation and maintenance actions sup-
Program ported by social and economic
Specific action or a schedule of actions improvements.
to carry out a policy or policies.
Rural (See Non-Urban)
Projection
An estimate of possible filture condi- Standard
tions and growth levels based on past A quantitative decision, rule or norm.
performance, assumptions about the fil-
ture, or policies. Urban
A way of life characterized by living
Rehabilitation in an area where the intensively man-
The making of major alterations to a altered physical environment
structure, or the replacement of major predominates over the natural. The
portions of a structure such as electd- urban physical environment includes:
cal and plumbing systems. Rehabilita- industry, trade, service and profes-
tion may be carried out on a selective sional occupations and the presence of
or wholesale basis. The concept of collective or public service systems
rehabilitation implies that the condi- (See Non-Urban). An urban environ-
tion of a structure endangers the ment is usually achieved when there is
health, safety and well-being of oc- a cluster of population of 2,500 or
cupants and users; and that it is more persons at a density of not less
economically feasible to correct the than 1,000 persons per square mile.
condition by repairs. For plan maps, residential densities
G-11
PAGE 32 Show Image
General Goals and Policies
equal to or greater than one dwelling
unit per acre are generally considered
urban.
Urban Form
The physical arrangement of urban
areas including the three dimensional
pattern of built and open areas.
G-12
PAGE 33 Show Image
Land Use
Land Use
The complete text for the Land Use Chapter can be found in the
Background Repoit Appendix A and Appendix B of this Chapter are
direct text reproductions of the General Conditions and Standards for
Development and the Hillside Management/Performance Review
Procedure located in the Background Report This Chapter was adopted
on November 25,1980. The last text amendment was adopted on
January 9, 1990.
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 34 Show Image
Land Use
Table of Contents
Section Page
A.Introduction..................................................L~1
B.Background....................................................LU-i
1.Trends...................................................LU-i
2. Decision-Making.........................................LU-2
C. General Plan Policy Maps.....................................LU-3
D. Goals and Policies...........................................LU-3
E. Land Use Glossary............................................L~9
Appendix A: General Conditions and Standards for Development
(Unincorporated Areas)..........................................LU-Ai
Appendix B: Hillside ManagementlPerformance Review Procedures
(Unincorporated Areas)..........................................LU-Bi
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN LU-i
PAGE 35 Show Image
Land Use
A. Introduction 1. Trends
The Land Use Element sets forth coun- Within established urban areas, be-
tywide policy for the general location tween 1970 and 1975, relatively high
and intensity of land use. The Element intensity uses became the dominant
serves as a tool for coordinating ~ture form of new development. Detached
development and revitalization plans of single family homes and other low in-
both the public and private sectors. tensity uses, however, continued to be
The policies of the Element support the the dominant form of new development
countywide General Plan policy of en- m outlying urban fringe areas, constitut-
couraging a more concentrated urban ing over 75% of new urban expansion.
pattern through the revitalization of
deteriorating urban areas, infilling of A diverging trend of centralized and
bypassed lands and focusing new urban decentralized development has oc-
development in the most suitable loca- curred in the past decade. Centraliza-
tions. tion occurs through both infilling of
vacant parcels and recycling of older
The Land Use Element calls for a dis-
tribution of use intensities within urban P
PAGE 36 Show Image
Land Use
The responsibility for positive planning in the County ultirnately lies with its residents.
urban areas to more intensive use. The vices, increased exposure to natural
1970-1975 trend analysis indicates that hazards, loss of productive agricultural
infill is taking place at nearly twice the land and mineral resource areas and
rate of new development on the urban degradation of critical watershed and
fringe, representing a significant rever- habitat areas.
sal of dominant trends prior to 1970.
A diverging trend The recycling of older areas has
of centrallzed and resulted in significant changes in the 2. Decision-Making
decentralized urban land use pattern. Between 1970
development has and 1975, it is estimated that over Clear, effective decision making re-
been occuring: 4,800 acres were recycled from less in- lated to land use is complicated by a
centralization tensive uses to medium and high den- number of factors. For one,
generally in older sity housing. governmental agencies do not always
areas and have sufficient information to monitor
decentralization Decentralized development has oc- development activity, therefore making
primarily in newer curred at a slower but still significant it difficult to see cumulative develop-
developing areas rate than in the past. Much of this type ment activity. In addition, the incor-
in the County. of development has been single family porated cities have local land use
residential in eastern San Gabriel Val- planning and zoning authority. Thus,
ley, nordiwestern San Fernando Valley, coordinating the planning activities
Santa Clarita Valley, Cerritos, Agoura with the cities, the Southern California
and Calabasas. Decentralized in- Association of Governrnents, special
dustrial development has also occurred. districts and other agencies is exceed-
Decentralized development can have ingly complex. Finally, competing
adverse consequences such as in- land planning objectives often arise,
creased costs for infrastructure and ser- complicating planning efforts.
LU-2
PAGE 37 Show Image
Land Use
C. General Plan Policy 2. Discourage the development of
isting substandard parcels when it is
Maps determined that such development in-
dividually or in combination with ad-
The Land Use Policy map portrays a jacent existing and/or proposed
general pattern and distribution of land development, will result in overbur-
uses according to nine generalized clas- dening of existing and/or planned
sifications. It serves as the policy public services and facilities.
framework within which more detailed
local plans (areawide, community and Quality Neighborhoods
neighborhood) as well as development
proposals can be considered. Key land Goal: To maintain and enhance the
development and management con- quality of existing residential neighbor-
cepts from other parts of the general hoods.
plan are related to a series of general
development standards and conditions Policies
inmap form. A full explanation of
map legends appears on the back of 3. Encourage development of well
each map. designed twinhomes, townhouses and
garden apartments, particularly on by-
passed parcels within existing urban
communities.
D. Goals and Policies 4. Promote neighborhood commercial' _______________
facilities which provide convenience
Coordination with Public Services goods and services and complement These Land Use
community character through ap- policies are aimed
Goal: To provide for land use arrange- propriate scale, design and locational at protecting com-
ments that takeffill advantage ofexist- controls. munities and using
mg public service and facility resources wisely.
capacities. Coordination with Transportation
Policies Goal: To coordinate land use with ex-
isting and proposed transportation net-
1. Require that new developments in works.
non-urban areas have adequate acces-
sibility to paved roads and water lines
of sufficient capacity.
LU-3
PAGE 38 Show Image
Land Use
`N' ~¾
The County's industry depends on an interconnecting rail system
Policies Policies
5. Encourage the clustering of well 6. Place major emphasis on channel-
The relationship designed highway oriented commer- ing new intensive commercial
between land uses cial facilities in appropriate and con- development into multipuipose
and transportation veniently spaced locations. centers.
is important.
Convenient Commercial Uses Sufficient Commercial and In-
dustrial Lands
Goal: To situate commercial activities
in viable clusters that conveniently Goal: To provide commercial and in-
serve their market areas. dustrial lands sufficient to accom-
modate the projected labor force.
LU-4
PAGE 39 Show Image
Land Use
Policies centers to provide convenient access
to jobs and services without sacrific-
7. Protect prime industrial lands from ing livability of environmental quality.
encroachment of incompatible uses.
13. Encourage the recycling of aban-
8. Where appropriate, promote more doned mineral extraction sites to
intensive use of industrial sites, espe- recreational, industrial or other
cially in areas requiring revitalization. productive use.
9. Protect major landfill and solid 14. Assure that new development is One of the Land
waste disposal sites from encroach- compatible with the natural and man- Use Element
ment of incompatible uses. made environment by implementing focuses is to
appropriate locational controls and provide compatible
10. In urban areas, encourage the high quality design standards. land uses.
retention of economically viable
agricultural production, e.g., high 15. Protect the character of residential
value crops such as strawberries, cut neighborhoods by preventing the in-
flowers, nursery stock, etc., through trusion of incompatible uses that
the identification and mitigation of would cause environmental degrada-
significant adverse impacts resulting tion such as excessive noise, noxious
from adjacent new development. flimes, glare, shadowing and traffic.
11. Protect known mineral resource 16. Promote planned industrial
reserves (including sand and gravel) development in order to avoid land
from encroachment of incompatible use conflicts with neighboring ac-
land uses. tivities.
Quality, Compatible Design 17. Establish and implement
regulatory controls that ensure com-
Goal: To encourage high quality patibillty of development adjacent to
design in all development projects, or within major public open space
compatible with, and sensitive to, the and recreation areas including Na-
natural and manmade environment. tional Forests, the National Recrea-
tion Area, and State and regional
parks.
Policies
12. Concentrate well designed high
density housing in and adjacent to
½~½
LU-5
PAGE 40 Show Image
Land Use
18. Prohibit development of existing 19. Discourage the development of
substandard parcels when it is deter- existing substandard parcels when it
mined that such development, in- is determined that such development,
dividually or in combination with individually or in combination with
adjacent existing and/or proposed adjacent existing and/or proposed
development, will significantly in- development, will result in: (1) sig-
crease exposure to unmitigable public nificant degradation of natural resour-
health and safety hazards. ces shared by community
residents;and (2) disruption of estab-
lished community character recog-
nizedinthePlan.
20. Protect identified Potential
~ Agricultural Preserves by discourag-
ing inappropriate land division and al-
lowing only use types and intensities
compatible with agriculture.
21. In non-urban areas outside of
Potential Agricultural Preserves, en-
courage the retention and expansion
of agriculture by promoting com-
patible land use arrangements and
providing technical assistance to in-
volved farming interests.
Energy Conservation and Improved
Air Quality
Goal: To foster compatible land use
arrangements that contribute to
reduced energy cosumption and im-
proved air quality.
Design enhancements can create a tranquil
atmosphere in the midst of an intense urban
area.
LU-6
PAGE 41 Show Image
Land Use
Policies 27. Improve the land use decision-
making process by closely monitoring
22. Promote land use arrangements and evaluating the cumulative im
that wrn maximize energy conserva- pacts of individual projects and by
tion. modernizing development regulations.
Decision-Making Process 28. Promote improved interjurisdic-
tional coordination of land use policy
Goal: To provide a land use decision- matters between the County, cities,
making process supported by adequate adjacent counties, special districts,
information and ongoing citizen par- and regional and subregional agencies.
ticipation.
29. Ensure that cities have a voice in
Policies land use decisions within their
adopted spheres of influence.
23. Ensure that future land division
activity within Los Angeles County Efficient Use of Land
occurs in strict compliance with State
and local laws. Goal: To encourage more efficient use
of land, compatible with, and sensitive
24. Ensure that the recognition of lots to, natural ecolocigal, scenic, cultural
created in non-compliance with State and open space resources.
and County subdivision laws (i.e., is-
suance of Conditional Certificate of Policies
Compliance) occurs only in a manner
which balances the fights and inter- 30. Prevent inappropriate develop-
ests of both the general public and in- ment in areas that are environmental-
dividual property owners. ly sensitive or subject to severe
natural hazards, and in areas where es-
25. Establish land use controls that af- sential services and facilities do not
ford effective protection for sig- exist and are not planned.
nificant ecological resources, and
lands of major scenic value.
26. Ensure contmuing opportunity for
citizen involvement in the land use
decision-making process.
LU-7
PAGE 42 Show Image
Land Use
31. Promote compatible land use ar-
rangements that reduce reliance on
the private automobile in order to
minimize related social, economic
and environmental costs.
32. Provide a land use mix at the
countywide, areawide and community
levels based on projected need and
supported by evaluation of social,
economic and environmental impacts.
LU-8
PAGE 43 Show Image
Land Use
E. Glossary The visible land area outside of the
highway right-of-way (to be defined
By-passed Land through scenic corridor studies of
proposed routes in the Scenic Highway
Land which remains undeveloped Element).
within generally urbanized areas.
Centralization Shadowing
Refers to shadows cast by structures
As used in discussion of land use onto surrounding land uses.
trends, the term refers to an intensifica-
tion or concentration of urban develop- Spheres Of Influence
ment within established urban areas. Unincorporated areas currently beyond
the boundary of a city, but likely to be
Decentralization included in the city's ultimate physical
As used in discussion of land use boundary, due to its ability to provide
trends, this tenri refers to an extension services and its social and economic
or dispersion of urban development interdependence with the area. These
into areas previously undeveloped or areas are formally designated and
in essentially non-urban use. adopted by the Local Agency Forma-
tion Commission.
Infill
The conversion of vacant or agricul- Urban Expansion
tural land within the urban area to an Geographic extension of urban levels
urban use. of development and service into pre-
viously undeveloped or non-urban
Infrastructure areas.
Basic utilities and facilities necessary
for development, such as water,
electricity, sewers, streets and high-
ways.
Prime Buildable Land
Undeveloped land which presents few
or no physical constraints to develop-
ment, is served by appropriate levels
of infrastructure and public services,
and is reasonably near existing ur-
banization.
Scenic Corridors
LU-9
PAGE 44 Show Image
Land Use
Appendix A
Table of Contents
Section Page
General Conditions and Standards for Development....................LU-Al
1. Urban Residential Development...............................LU-A2
2. Non-Industrial Uses within Major Industrial Areas...........LU-A4
3. Local Commercial and Industrial Services....................LU-A4
4. Open Space Areas............................................LU-A7
5. Non-Urban Residential Development...........................LU-A8
6. Non-Urban Residential Development Conditions................LU-A9
7. Non-Urban Hillside Development.............................LU-AlO
8. Significant Ecological Areas (SEAs)........................LU-A12
9. Flood none Areas...........................................LU-A14
10. Major Fault Zones.........................................LU-A15
11. Agricultural Opportimity Areas............................LU-A17
12. National Forests..........................................LU-A17
13. Open Space Easements and Dedications......................LU-A18
14. Coastal Zone..............................................LU-A19
15. Scenic Highways...........................................LU-A19
16. Mineral Resource Areas....................................LU-~0
17. Cultural Heritage Resources...............................LU-A21
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN LU-Ai
PAGE 45 Show Image
Land Use
Appendix A
List of Tables
Title Page
LU-Al Countywide Density Threshold Non-Urban Hillside........LU-All
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN LU-Au
PAGE 46 Show Image
Land Use
Land Use Element communities. These Local Plans (corn-
munity and areawide plans) are
Appendix A: General referenced and included here as local-
Conditions and Standards ized refinements of General Plan land
for Development use policy. There are, in addition, a
number of other local and community
~nicorporated County planning programs envisioned in the
coming years. Upon adoption, such
Areas) plans wrn be fonnally incorporated as
Local Plan chapters of the General
1
It has been previously noted that the Plan. The Land Use Ele-
textual and mapped policies of the ment serves as a
Land Use Element are countywide in The introductory chapter of the key tool for im-
scope and to a large degree reflect the General Plan discusses in broader con- proving interjuris-
land use plans of other local jurisdic- text the relationship between the coun- dictional
tions and unincorporated communities. tywide and Local Plan components of coordination in
As such, the Element provides an over- the General Plan. While recognizing land use planning.
view of countywide land use policy the role of adopted Local Plans in
and the perspective necessary to iden- regulating local land use and circula-
tif~~ and resolve regional land use is- tion patterns, the countywide Land Use
sues. III this capacity, the General Plan Element provides guidance for the
Land Use Element serves as a key tool resolution of specific issues when one
for in~roving interjurisdictional coor- of the following conditions exist:
dination in land use planning matters.
1. The specific issues involved, in-
In addition to this countywide perspec- dividually or collectively, constitute
tive, the Element must also provide a a regional land use concern.
basis for more specific land use plan-
ning and decision-making activities 2. No adopted local plan covers the
within unincorporated areas. To this area in question or addresses the
end, the County has emphasized the issue at hand.
development of relatively detailed land
use plans for its major unincorporated
1 Local plans adopted or in preparation include the following: Hacienda Heights (adopted 1978); Rowland Heights (adopted
1981); Santa Monica Mountains (adopted 1981); Santa Catalina (adopted 1982); Marina del Rey/Ballona (adopted 1982);
Diamond Bar (adopted 1983); Catalina Island (adopted 1983); Santa Clarita Valley (adopted 1977 and updated in 1984);
Antelope Valley (adopted 1985); Altadena (adopted 1986); Walnut Park (adopted 1986); East Los Angeles (adopted 1978
and iapdated in 1988); Castaic Corridor (completed 1988); Westmont Community (initiated 1988).
LU-Al
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Land Use
Within this context the following corporated territory within its desig-
general conditions and standards for nated sphere of influence.
development are set forth to clarif~r
General Plan policy with regard to Within the range of entitlements estab-
regional land use concerns, and to lished by urban residential land use
provide guidance for decision-making classifications, transfer of density
in the absence of applicable corn- within a project site is generally en-
munity level plauning. couraged as a means of reducing poten-
tial adverse impacts, preserving scenic
areas and providing increased open
space and design amenities. However,
1. Urban Residential density transfer should be discouraged
Development when it is deteimined that:
General: The residential use classifica- 1. The proposed development is not
tions of the Land Use Policy Map are in keeping with established corn-
intended to describe dominant housing munity character recognized in a lo-
characteristics within the areas covered cally adopted plan; and/or,
and are representative of permitted den-
sity ranges established by various city 2. The proposed project will over-
and community plans throughout Los burden existing and/or planned ser-
Angeles County. Within unincor- vices, facilities or infrastnicture.
porated areas, adopted local plans serve
to refme these generalized classifica- Unincorporated local plans may -- and
tions and establish more specific den- are encouraged to -- refine and expand
sity standards and conditions for upon the above provisions governing
development. Where no such local density transfer.
plan exists, the density ranges estab-
lished by the countywide General Plan Residential Infill: General Plan policy
will guide decision-making relative to supports a more concentrated form of
specific residential development urban development. More specifically,
2
proposals. In addition, such coun- it encourages residential infill at den-
tywide standards may be interpreted to sities compatible with and slightly
reflect more specific use provisions of higher than those of surrounding uses.
an adopted city plan applicable to unin- In light of this policy emphasis, new
residential development within existing
urban areas not covered by a more
2 Minor density variations may be permitted to accomodate spec jfic lot size and net area provisions of the Zoning Ordinance.
LU-A2
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Land Use
detailed local plan may be permitted at Low and Moderate Income Housing:
densities exceeding those depicted on General Plan policy strongly supports
the Land Use Policy Map, subject to the provision of critically needed low
4
conformance with the following and moderate income housing. In sup-
criteria: port of this policy emphasis, the Plan
proposes the development and applica-
1. The proposed project will not dis- tion of density bonus and other
rupt sound residential neighbor- programs designed to stimulate produc-
hoods nor adversely affect the tion of such housing by both the public
character of the established com- and private sectors.
munity;
The General Plan flirther recognizes,
2. The proposed project site is of suf- however, that the precise design and
ficient size to accommodate design location of future low and moderate in-
features (setbacks, landscaping, buf- come housing cannot adequately be
fering, etc.) necessary to ensure reflected by mapped land use policy at
compatibility with surrounding uses; either the countywide or local plan
levels. Thus, adopted programs for the
3. The proposed project will not development of low and moderate in-
overburden existing public services come housing units may modify the
and facilities; urban use type and intensity standards
established by generalized local land
4. The proposed use will not disrupt use plans. Such programs shall include
or adversely impact local traffic and appropriate design and density
parking conditions; and parameters for specific development
proposals that reflect the following con-
5. Compatibility of the proposed siderations:
project with surrounding uses, in
terms of scale, intensity and design, 1. The compatibility of the proposed
is ensured through specific site plan project, in terms of scale and design,
review.3 with surrounding land uses and es-
tablished community character;
3 While at present the Conditional Use Permit process is the primary mechanism available to assure compliance with an
approved site plan. new and improved development controls may be employed as they become available.
4 The Housing Element discusses in detail the topic oflow- and moderate- income housing, sets forth applicable locational
criteria, and describes a variety ofmeclzanisms which `nay be employed to encourage the provision of critically needed
units.
LU-A3
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Land Use
2. The viability of the proposed 1. The area in question is not
project in terms of a long term corn- suitable for present or future in-
mitment and ability to meet iden- dustrial use due to conflicts with ex-
tified lOW and moderate income isting or emerging land use patterns,
housing needs; and, lack of sufficient and adequate ac-
cess, or the presence of site specific
3. The location of the proposed physical characteristics posing
project relative to shopping and severe constraints for industrial
employment opportunities and ac- development; or the proposed use
cessibility to necessary public ser- demonstrates a desirable, corn-
vices and facilities. patible and well-integrated pattern
of employment and housing oppor-
tunities and thereby furthers General
2. Non-Industrial Uses within Plan objectives pertaining to
reduced energy consumption and im-
Major Industrial Areas proved air quality.
The countywide General Plan recog- 2. The proposed non-industrial use,
nizes the limited supply of prime land individually or in combination with
available for future industrial growth adjacent uses, will not adversely irn-
and development. This scarcity is par- pact the viability of surrounding
ticularly acute in the southern portions areas for the maintenance or expan-
of the County where the majority of the sion of industrial activities.
current and projected labor force wrn
reside. 3. Compatibility of the proposed
non-industrial use with current and
future industrial activities in the area
The Plan also recognizes, however, is ensured through specific site plan
that the Major Industrial category
depicted on the Land Use Policy Map review and approval.
is, due to mapping scale and data
resource factors, generalized in nature
and may, in fact, include areas with 3. Local Commercial and
limited potential for industrial develop- Industrial Services
ment. Therefore, establishment of non-
industrial uses within identified Major
Industrial areas not covered by a more Due to the scale and nature of the coun-
detailed local plan may be peimitted tywide Land Use Policy Map, locally-
subject to fmdings of compliance with serving commercial and industrial uses
the following conditions: are generally not shown. Such local-
LU-A4
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Land Use
ized land use types and associated
development standards are more a')-
propfiately addressed by detailed local
plans. However, m order to provide
giiidance for decision making in the ab-
sence of an adopted local plan, the fol-
lowing general conditions and
standards are provided.
Definition: For puiposes of the cowl-
tywide Land Use Element, local com-
mercial and industrial uses are defined
as individual enterprises or small scale
multi-use centers serving the needs of
the local community. Such uses in-
dude:
1. Facilities providing neighborhood Local shopping areas are convenient and help establish community
or community convenience goods character.
and services;
local "cottage industry't uses where
2. Highway or roadside facilities compatible with surrounding land
and services of a minor nature (i.e., use patterns).
gas stations, cafes, motels, etc.); Guidelines governing the general
location, scale, design and circula-
3. Local communitylneighborhood- tion characteristics of local commer-
serving office and professional ser- cial and industrial uses (11ereafter
vices; and
referred to as local services) are set
4. Light industrial uses of a minor forth below:
nature as defined by the scale of the Location:
facility, number of employees, ser-
vice area, and general coippatibility 1. The proposed use should be easi-
within the community setting (it is
not the intent of countywide land ly accessible and should be situated
use policy to prohibit the estab at community focal points such as-
major intersections and established
lishment or continued operation of neighborhood shopping facilities.
LU-AS
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Land Use
2. The proposed use should be lo- 2. Proposed local service use should
cated so as not to invade or disrupt reflect locally recognized architec-
sound existing residential neighbor- tural themes and enhance overall
hoods nor conflict with established community character.
community land use, parking and
______________ circulation patterns. 3. Local commercial signs and
graphic displays should generally be
One ofthe~nc- Scale: confmed to the facade surface of the
tions of the business establishment and should
General Condi-
1. The scale of local service uses, in not project above the roofline or dis-
tions and Stan- terms of acreage and permitted floor rupt the architectural design of the
dards for area, should be limited to that which structure.
Development is to *can be justified by local community
delineate ap- and neighborhood needs. Inmost in- 4. Free-standing signs should
propriate uses for stances, such uses, individually or in generally be discouraged and per-
Open Space Areas. aggregate, should not exceed 10 mitted only where they are deter-
acres is size. mined to be aesthetically and
flinctionally appropfiate.
2. The height of proposed facilities
should not exceed the general 5. Off-site signs should be
profile established by existing uses, prohibited.
and should in no event exceed that
of neighboring residential develop- Access and Traffic:
ment.
1. The size and intensity of local ser-
3. The overall scale and intensity of vice uses should be confined to the
proposed local service uses should extent that anticipated traffic genera-
be in keeping with the surrounding tion does not adversely affect condi-
neighborhood or community setting. tions on adjacent streets and
highways.
Design:
2. Access, egress and onsite parking
1. Local service uses should be should be provided in a manner
designed, in terms of setbacks, which maximizes safety and con-
landscaping, lighting and buffering, venience, and minimizes adverse im-
so as to ensure compatibility with pacts on surrounding neighborhood
surrounding uses. and community land use patterns.
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Land Use
4. Open Space Areas open space use, the appropriateness of
the proposed project shall be reviewed
and determined in light of the follow-
Due to the scale and generalized nature ing considerations:
of the Land Use Policy Map, it is con-
ceivable that privately owned lands not Finding: In reviewing a proposal for
intended for long term open space use development within the Open Space
have been included within the Open classification of the countywide Land
Space classification. The Plan there- Use Policy Map, the Regional Planning
fore seeks to provide a mechanism to Commission shall make a specific find-
guide detailed land use consideration ing that the proposed project site was
in instances where mapped policy, by inadvertently included within the open
itself, is unclear or inadequate. In corn- space classification.
bination with the textual and mapped
policies of the Plan, the general stand- Criteria:
ards and conditions set forth below are
intended to provide such a mechanism. 1. Land Compatibility/Suitability
It shall be demonstrated that the sub-
Corn patible Uses: Land within the ject property is capable of support-
Open Space classification of the coun- ing the proposed development
tywide General Plan may, as a matter without increasing exposure to sig-
of course, be developed to any use per- nificant natural hazards or degrad-
mitted in Zones 0-S (Open Space) and ing identified critical natural
W (Watershed) of the Los Angeles resources. It shall flirther be estab-
County Zoning Ordinance, subject to lished that access to the site is ade-
the conditions and standards of those quate to serve the intended use and
5
zones. Such uses include a variety of that the provision of necessary ser-
agricultural, recreational, mineral ex- vices and facilities wrn not result in
traction, and public and semi-public ac- undue public costs.
tivities and services.
2. Compatibility
Alternative Use Determinations: `ri It shall be demonstrated that the
the event that development, other than proposed development is com-
that provided for above, is proposed for patible, in terms of scale and
property within an Open Space clas- designed character, with surround-
sification not intended for long term ing land use patterns. Appropriate
5 Private inholdings witizin the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests are dealt with separately on page LU-A17 of this
Land Use Element, and are not subject to the conditions and standards setforth for Open Space areas.
LU-A7
PAGE 53 Show Image
Land Use
use type and intensity standards designated Open Space Area in
shall be reflective of those existing temis of suitability, scale, design
or proposed for adjacent non-open and character shall be assured
space properties. through the review and approval of
a specific site plan, with conditions
It shall flirther be demonstrated that established as necessary through nor-
the scale, design and overall charac- mal zoning or land division proce-
ter of the proposed development dures.
will not adversely affect or sig-
nificantly dimnish the open space
and recreational potential of ad- 5. Non-Urban Residential
jacent resource areas.
Development
3. Special Considerations
The countywide Land Use Element The intent of the General Plan policy
sets forth a variety of general stand- with regard to use types and intensities
ards and conditions for development permitted in non-urban areas is out-
to guide land use decision making in lined in the countywide Land Use
the absence of specific mapped Policy Map discussion. The general
policy (i.e., urban and non-urban conditions set forth below expand upon
residential development standards, that statement of intent, and are
residential infill, low and moderate designed to provide guidance for
income housing, local commercial decision-making in the absence of
and industrial facilities, special more specific standards and perfor-
management areas, etc.). Where ap- mance criteria.
plicable, such general standards and
conditions for development shall be Except as otherwise provided for by an
employed to guide decisions relative adopted areawide, community or
to appropriate alternative use of specific plan, or as modified by the spe-
lands within the Open Space clas- cial management and rural community
sification.
provisions of the General Plan, non-
urban residential development may be
4. Site Design Review
The appropriateness of a specific permitted at densities ranging from a
baseline of one unit per five acr6es, to a
development proposal within a maximum of one unit per acre. All
6 !n no event sI~ll non-urban densities authorized by an adopted local plan exceed a maximum of one dwelling UlLit per acre.
LU-A8
PAGE 54 Show Image
Land Use
proposals for non-urban residential 6. The proposed use is served by
development which exceed the coun- water supplies and distribution
tywide density baseline shall be subject facilities of sufficient capacity to
to substantial compliance with the fol- meet anticipated domestic and fire
lowing conditions: protection needs.
1. The proposed use will not adver- 7. The proposed use is compatible
sely affect local environmental with the character of surrounding
quality or degrade significant development patterns.
natural resources such as sensitive
habitat areas, riparian woodlands,
and scenic vistas. 6. Non-Urban Residential
2. The proposed use will not be Development Conditions
detrimental to public health and
safety because of hazardous or spe- Required improvements related to the
cial conditions. conditions stated above shall not be re-
quired in connection with a minor land
3. The proposed use will not sub- division where the advisory agency
stantially contribute to the deteriora- fmds that existing systems and irn-
tion of air or water quality. provements adequately serve adjacent
developed parcels, unless such im-
4. The proposed use, individually or provements are necessary for the
in combination with other existing development of parcels within the
and proposed use patterns, will not division of land.
require extension or expansion of
urban services and facilities. Development in non-urban areas up to
the maximum density of one dwelling
5. The proposed use is conveniently unit per acre may be permitted not-
accessible by paved road, and will withstanding any adopted local plan
not, individually or in combination (but still subject to the above condi-
with other existing and proposed tions and to special management area
use patterns, overburden existing policies) where it is found that:
non-urban roadways.
7 The performance criteria for non-urban hillside development articulate in greater detail the general conditions set forth.
Where applicable, such performance criteria will augment general conditions for non-urban residential development.
LU-A9
PAGE 55 Show Image
Land Use
1. such development would not ex- Such lands are generally illustrated as
pand a non-urban cluster; and, Hillside Management Areas on the Spe-
cia' Management Areas Policy Map
2. at least fifty percent (50%) of the (see Conservation and Open Space Ele-
topographically similar land within ment). While the General Plan
a 1000 foot radius of the subject provides for limited urban hillside
property (not including the subject development, most hillside manage-
property itself) is within parcels ment areas fall within the non-urban
smaller than or equal to the average land use classification.9 "ithese areas,
parcel size proposed for the subject it is the intent of Plan policy to permit
property. uses which are compatible with hillside
character and suitability factors, which
De~isity transfer from urban to non- do not create a demand for public in-
8
urban areas is not permitted. Within vestment in urban services and
non-urban areas, density transfer is facilities, and which do not cause sig-
generally encouraged as a means of nificant adverse environmental impacts.
reducing potential adverse impacts,
preserving scenic areas and providing Uses compatible within non-urban
increased open space and other design hillside management areas include:
amenities. Precluded, however, are recreation; non-urban residential uses
density transfer proposals which result subject to the density threshold set
in the creation of new urban com- forth below; limited commercial and
munities noncontiguous to existing or highway oriented uses serving local
planned urban areas and requiring an residents and travelers; and certain in-
urban level of services and facilities dustrial, extractive, agricultural, and
not consistent with the intent of public uses, which by their nature can
General Plan policy. appropriately be located in remote
hillside areas.
7. Non-Urban Hillside Residential development within non-
urban hillside management areas is sub-
Development ject to the density standards shown in
Table LU-Al and are flirther discussed
Hillside management areas are defined in the Countywide Density Threshold
as mountainous and foothill terrain section (following).
having a natural slope of 25% or more.
8 The single exception to this rule is found on page !~ of the Introduction.
9 See Appendix Bfor a more detailed dtscussion ofurban hillside development standards.
LU-A1O
PAGE 56 Show Image
Land Use
Table LU-Al
Countywide Density Threshold
Non-Urban Hillside
Natural Slope Low High
25 to 50% 1 d.u.110 acres 1 d.u./2 acres
Greater thaii 50% Not Applicable 1 d.u./20 acres
`Ilareas of greater than 50% natural with densities above the low threshold
slope, a maximum density of one dwell- shall be required to demonstrate the fol-
ing unit per 20 acres shall apply in all lowing:
unincorporated areas. In areas with
slopes ranging from 25% to 50%, 1. Public Safety:
development proposals exceeding the
low density threshold are subject to the The proposed project is located and
Hrnside Management/Performance designed so as to protect the safety
Review Procedure. The density of cuirent and future cornmunity
granted wrn reflect the extent to which residents and wrn not create sig-
performance criteria are met. nificant threats to life and/or proper-
ty due to the presence of geologic,
Adopted local plans may establish the seismic, slope instability, fire, flood
maximum permitted non-urban den- or erosion hazards.
sities for lands ranging from 25% to
50% natural slope. However, in no case 2. Resource Protection:
wrn such densities be greater than the
one dwelling unit per acre maximum The proposed project is compatible
established for all non-urban areas. with the natural biotic, cultural,
scenic and open space resources of
Under the Performance Review the area.
Procedure, development proposals
LU-All
PAGE 57 Show Image
Land Use
3. Suitability for Development: resources necessary to support preserva-
tion, restoration and enhancement ef-
The proposed project is convenient- forts; and the competing priorities
ly served by (or provides) neighbor- between resource preservation and
hood shopping and commercial other critical public needs.
facilities, can be provided with es-
sential public services without im- Recognizing the resource values at
posing undue costs on the total stake and the constraints imposed by
community, and is consistent with competing priorities and objectives, the
the goals and policies of the General General Plan seeks to provide a process
Plan. for reconciling specific conflicts be-
tween proposed land use and the preser-
4. Quality of Design: vation of identified Significant
Ecological Areas. The Plan does not,
The proposed project demonstrates however, suggest that this can be ac-
creative and imaginative design complished by applying a single set of
resulting in a visual quality that wrn regulatory standards to all SEAs. Nor
complement community character does it infer that reasonable use of
and benefit current and fliture com- privately held lands within such areas
munity residents. shall be precluded without just compen-
sation. Instead, the Plan recognizes
Performance review criteria and the that measures necessary to preserve
process for determining compliance are and enhance Significant Ecological
set forth in Appendix B of this Element. Areas will vary depending on the na-
ture of resource values present and the
degree of threat implied by potentially
incompatible development. Within this
8. Significant Ecological Areas context, the following general condi-
(SEAs) tions and standards are provided to
guide specific land use decisions.
It is the intent of General Plan policy to
preserve the County's significant SEA Compatible Land Uses: Within
ecological resources and habitat areas Significant Ecological Areas the follow-
in viable and natural conditions. Major ing activities are considered compatible
factors influencing the realization of by definition: regulated scientific
Plan objectives in this regard include study; passive recreation including
the County's ability to accurately iden- wildlife observation and photography;
tif~r areas of significant resource value; and limited picnicking, riding, hiking,
the availability of financial and other and overnight camping. In addition,
LU-A 12
PAGE 58 Show Image
Land Use
the following uses may be compatible 1. The development is designed to
as determined by a detailed biotic sur- be highly compatible with biotic
vey and conditioned as may l)e neces- resources present, including the set-
sary to ensure protection of identified ting aside of appropriate and suffi-
ecological resources: cient undisturbed areas;
1. Residential uses at densities com- 2. The development is designed to
patible with the resource values maintain bodies of water, watercour-
present and consistent with com- ses, and their tributaries in a natural
munity character in tern's of both state;
overall density and magnitude as
defined in adopted local plans; 3. The development is designed so
that wildlife movement corridors
2. Where provided for in an adopted (migratory paths) are left in a
local plan, commercial uses of a natural and undisturbed state;
minor nature serving local residents
and visitors; 4. The development retains suffi-
cient natural vegetative cover and/or
3. Where no altemative site or align- open spaces to buffer critical
ment is feasible, public and semi- resource areas from the proposed
public uses essential to the use;
maintenance of public health, safety
and welfare; 5. Where necessary, fences or walls
are provided to buffer important
4. Agricultural uses compatible with habitat areas from development; and
the resource values present; and
6. Roads and utilities serving the
5. Where compatible with identified proposed development are located
biotic resources, extractive uses in- and designed so as not to conflict
cluding oil and gas recovery, and with critical resources, habitat areas
rock, sand and gravel quarrying. or migratory paths.
SEA Design Compatibility Criteria: SEA Performance Review: The key
Each development proposed within a components and participants in the Sig-
designated SEA will be reviewed for nificant Ecological Area/Performance
compliance with the following design Review Procedure are generally iden-
criteria: tifled below. The countywide Land
LU-A13
PAGE 59 Show Image
Land Use
Use Element leaves for f~irther defini- other information as may be re-
tion the specific procedural steps and quested from the applicant, planning
regulatory mechanisms to be employed. staff shall prepare a draft environ-
mental impact report identifying
1. Resource Identification: Develop- potential project impacts and p05-
ment permit applications, including sible mitigation measures.
zoning, land division, building and
grading permit requests, shall be ac- 5. Regional Planning Commission
companied by an adequate biotic Review and Action: Considering the
analysis of the SEA or affected por- recommendations of the Technical
tion thereof. Necessary biotic data Advisory Committee, potential im-
is to be prepared through a coopera- pacts and mitigation measures iden-
tive process involving both the tified in the Draft EIR, and other
project applicant and appropriate provisions of countywide and local
public agencies. The Department of plans as may be applicable, the
Regional Planning shall be the lead Regional Planning Commission
agency in tiiis regard. shall consider and act upon the
proposed development plan.
2. Technical Review/Development Recommendations for approval
~ The biotic analysis will shall be accompanied by a finding
be submitted with the prelininary that the proposed project is sensitive
project plan to an appointed Sig- to and compatible with the biotic
nificant Ecological Area Techiucal resources of the area. In the event
Advisory Committee. This commit- that such a fmding cannot be made,
tee will flinction to review the sub- the Commission may deny the
mitted biotic data for its adequacy project, request a revised develop-
and recommend conditions and ment plan, or approve and forward
guidelines for final project design. the proposal together with a state-
ment of overriding considerations to
3. Project Design Review: Planning the Board of Supervisors for flirther
staff, in cooperation with the Techni- review and action.
cal Advisory Committee, will
review project plans submitted by
the applicant for compliance with
recommended conditions and 9. Flood Prone Areas
guidelines.
Areas subject to substantial flood
4. ImpactAnalysis: Based on the hazard as determined by the Depart-
biotic data previously generated and ment of Public Wotks are shown as
LU-A14
PAGE 60 Show Image
Land Use
flood Prone Areas on the Special 1. The scale, design and intensity of
Management Areas Policy Map (see the proposed project will minimize
Conservation, Open Space and Recrea- exposure of current and fliture com-
tion, Elements). This classification in- munity residents to flood related
cludes both the watercourse itself and property damage and loss.
adjacent areas subject to overflow of
flood waters during major storms. The 2. The proposed project is consistent
County is in the process of mapping with density and use standards set
flood protection districts for major forth in applicable local plans, and
flood prone areas. These maps will is compatible with the character of
precisely delineate the existing water- surrounding development.
course and additional areas necessary
to provide reasonable protection from 3. The proposed project is situated
overflow, erosion and debris deposition. and designed so as to avoid isolation
from essential services and facilities
At such time as a flood protection dis- m the event of flooding.
trict is established by ordinance, no per-
manent structures shall be constructed, 4. The costs associated with on and
altered, modified, or enlarged within off-site hazard mitigation, including
the boundaries of the district, except: design, construction, and continued
a) those accessory structures that will maintenance of necessary flood
not substantially impede the flow of protection facilities will be assumed
water, and b) flood control structures by the developer and/or future
approved by the County Departrnent of owners, occupants, or residents of
Public Works. the proposed development.
Prior to the establishment of a flood
protection district, any development 10. Major Fault Zones
proposed within a flood prone area
shall be reviewed by the Departtnent of
Public Works which will defme the Major Fault Zones depicted on the Spe-
area within which no permanent struc- cial Management Areas Policy Map
tures or improvements shall be per- (see Conservation, Open Space, and
mitted. Within other portions of the Recreation Elements) reflect both the
flood prone area, development
proposals shall be reviewed for com-
pliance with the following criteria:
LU-A1S
PAGE 61 Show Image
Land Use
active and potentially active faults iden- feet of an active fault trace (specific
tified in the countywide Seismic Safety exceptions include individually con-
Element, and the more detailed fault structed, wood frame, single family
mapping prepared by the California residences and mobile homes).
State Division of Mines and Geology
under the provisions of the Aiquist- Other Major Fault Zones: In addi-
Priolo Special Study Zones Act.10 tion to the provisions of the County
Strategies and programs for minimiz- building codes11, the following general
ing risks to public health and safety conditions for development will apply
within potential fault rupture zones are within major fault zones identified on
more specifically addressed in the the Special Management Areas Map:
adopted countywide Safety Element.
Insupport of these strategies and 1. Applications for zoning or tenta-
programs, the following general stand- tive subdivision approval or renewal
ards and conditions for development shall be submitted to the Depart-
will apply in all unincorporated areas ment of Public Works for review.
and may be expanded and elaborated On the basis of this review, the
upon by local plans. Department of Public Works shall
determine the necessity for addition-
Special Study Zones: At such time as al geologic data and establish such
a major fault is identified and mapped conditions for development as may
in accordance with the AIquist-Priolo be appropriate.
Act, new development shall comply
with criteria established by the State 2. The following uses shall be
Mining and Geology Board. Essential- prohibited: emergency response
ly, these criteria require the following: facilities including sheriff and fire
stations; vital facilities including
1. A geology report, prepared by a hospitals and major utility and com-
registered geologist, shall be sub- munications installations; and
mitted to the appropriate local agen- facilities for dependent populations
cy for review prior to approval of including, but not limited to
proposed development within a Spe- schools, day care centers, convales-
cial Study Zone; and cent homes, institutions for the
physically and mentally hand-
2. No structure for human occupan- icapped, and high security correc-
cy shall be constructed within 50 tional institutions.
10 Cahfornia Public Resources Code, Division 2, Chapter 7~.
11 See Los Angeles County Building Code, Sections 310 and 311.
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11. Agricultural Opportunity minimize conflicts between agricultural
Areas and other urban and non-urban land
uses. Such zones defme compatible
use types and intensities based upon
Agricultural Opportunity Areas include the characteristics and needs of local
large contiguous land areas either agricultural activities.
devoted to agricultural production or
highly suitable for agricultural use due
to the presence of favorable growing
conditions such as climate, soils, and 12. National Forests
water (see Conservation and Open
Space Element). The intent of General The Los Padres and Angeles National
Plan policy is to preserve and protect Forests encompass nearly 650,000
such resource areas from the intrusion acres of land within Los Angeles Coun-
of incompatible uses which conflict ty. While the Forest Service maintains
with or preclude viable agricultural ac- comprehensive resource management
tivity. programs for the majority of this area,
there are nearly 40,000 acres ofprivate-
To this end, the Plan supports volun- ly owned "inholdings" within the
tary establishment of agricultural Forest boundaries. For these areas, the
preserves such as those provided for by County retains primary responsibility
the California Land Conservation Act. in terms of land use regulation.
The Act provides incentives for the
preservation of prime agricultural lands Many privately owned lands within the
and sets forth specific criteria govern- National Forests are subject to a high
ing the creation and maintenance of degree of natural hazard. The follow-
recognized preserves. ing general conditions and standards
provide guidance for land use decisions
The General Plan flirther recommends relative to private inholdings within the
improved plaiuiing and tools to National Forests:
preserve agricultural resource areas.
Efforts in this regard should involve 1. Non-urban residential develop-
the cooperative participation of farm- ment shall be limited to a maximum
ing interests, resource conservation dis- residential density of one dwelling
tricts, the County Agricultural unit per five acres except within es-
Conimissioner and other concerned tablished residential communities
State and federal agencies. More where higher densities presently
specifically, the Plan recommends the exist. Within these established
development and application of ex- residential communities, fliture
clusive agricultural zones desigued to
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Land Use
development may occur at non- sion and U.S. Forestry Service for
urban and, in some instances, low compliance with applicable land use
urban densities consistent with the and resource management plans.
existing character of the area.
Commercial uses to support user
groups within the Forest may also
be permitted as well as other uses al- 13. Open Space Easements and
lowed consistent with the Forest Dedications
Service's Land and Resource
Management Plan. `[lall cases, The California Open Space Easement
development proposals will be sub- Act of 1969 sets forth general condi-
ject to applicable Rural Community tions governing the creation of recog-
and Special Management Area per- nized open space easements. Agree-
formance standards and criteria. ments or contracts establishing such
easements specify the standards and
conditions for uses and activities per-
mitted within the area covered.
For purposes of the General Plan, open
space dedications are defined as
privately owned lands which have been
set aside for permanent open space as
* part of a larger land development
proposal. Commitrnent of such lands
to long term open space use is typically
assured through deed restrictions or
dedication of construction rights,
+ `++ secured at the time of developrnent per-
mit approval. Within dedicated open
space areas, standards and conditions
for use are specifically set forth as con-
Picturesque settings such as this harbor draw residents and visitors ditions of the zoning permit or sub-
outdoors throughout the year. division tract map.
2. All proposed private and public
development projects within the Na-
tional Forests will be reviewed by
both the Regional Planning Commis-
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14. Coastal Zone 2. Structures and landscaping
should complement and enhance
scenic views.
In accordance with the 1976 California
Coastal Act, Los Angeles County has 3. If possible, potential unsightly
undertaken the preparation of local features should be located in areas
coastal programs for the unincor- not visible from the scenic highway.
porated Malibu coast, Marina Del Rey, If this is not feasible, they should be
Los Alamitos and the off-shore island screened by landscaping, fencing, or
of Santa Catalina. At such time as other appropriate means.
these programs are completed, they
will be adopted as the Coastal Element 4. Grading should result in final con-
of the countywide General Plan and tours which are compatible with the
will establish detailed land use policy existing terrain.
within the coastal zone. Prior to the
adoption of local coastal programs, 5. The number of access roads to or
specific development proposals will be from the scenic highway should be
subject to compliance with applicable minimized wherever possible, con-
policies of adopted countywide and sistent with safety and circulation
local plans, as well as conformance needs.
with the provisions of the California
Coastal Act. 6. Watercourses should be preserved
in their present condition except
where necessary to restore to a state
15. Scenic Highways more consistent with a natural ap-
pearance.
Scenic highways are identified in the 7. Commercial or industrial uses
countywide Circulation Element and should be conducted entirely within
include adopted State Scenic High- closed buildings, except for res-
ways. Proposed development within taurants, recreational uses and
all adopted and proposed scenic cor- gasoline/service stations.
ridors shall be reviewed for consistency
with the following design criteria: 8. Outdoor advertising (billboards,
subdivision directional signs, etc.)
1 .The proposed development should shall be prohibited.
be designed to create a consistent
visual relationship with surrounding
development and with the natural
terram and vegetation.
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At such time as a plan is adopted for 3.The cost of restoring the site in ac-
a specific scenic corridor, additional cordance with acceptable reclama-
cfitefia and standards may be ap- tion standards. In addition, the
plied. proposed development shall be
designed so that it does not inhibit
the future development of extrac-
16. Mineral Resource Areas tive, surface mining or energy
production facilities and shall make
provisions to buffer the proposed
Mineral resource areas include existing use from existing or future mineral
surface mining activities, areas iden- resource activities.
tified or to be identified as containing
significant mineral resources by the Extractive Uses: All extractive sur-
State Mining and Geology Board, and face mining facilities shall be subject to
areas suitable for the production of the following conditions:
energy resources, including crude oil
and natural gas. 1. Control of slope excavations;
Compatibility of Proposed Develop- 2. Control of erosion and sedimenta-
ment: Within identified mineral tion;
resource areas, proposed development
other than open space, passive recrea- 3. Control of water quality, runoff
tion, agriculture, extraction or surface and flooding;
mining shall be reviewed for corn-
patibility with existing or potential 4. Protection of fish and wildlife;
mineral resource production. This
review will consider the following fac- 5. Provision of adequate setbacks
tors: from adjacent uses;
1. The value of mineral resources lo- 6. Control of noise, dust, vibration,
cated within the vicinity of the smoke, dirt, odors and lighting; and
proposed development.
7. Salvage of topsoil.
2. The feasibility of extracting the
identified mineral resources within a ~ addition to the above conditions, pur-
reasonable time pefiod pflor to suant to the provisions of the California
development of the proposed use. Surface Mining and Reclamation Act,
all mining activities in operation as of
January, 1976 and those placed in
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Land Use
operation after that date shall be re-
quired to submit a reclamation plan
which shall provide for appropriate
measures to rehabilitate the site prior to
its abandonment.
17. Cultural Heritage -
Resources
Cultural heritage resources include
known archaeological and paleontologi-
cal areas, sites and structures which
have been identified in authoritative 4
surveys of archaeological societies, his-
torical societies and academic studies.
These sites are too numerous and, in
most cases, too small to permit ade-
quate mapping at the General Plan
scale.
Within the unincorporated area, the fol-
lowing guidelines shall apply to
proposed development in areas iden-
tified in the above mentioned authorita- Historic structures such as this Italianate home are resources adm fred by
tive surveys and to sites found to have residents and sight-seers to the County.
historical and scientific value:
strong likelihood that an ar-
Archaeological and Paleontological chaeological or paleontological
Resources: resource would be impacted by the
proposed project, a study of the
1. A literature search for valid ar- project site shall be made by a
chaeological or paleontological sur- qualified archaeologist or paleon-
veys shall be conducted (for each tologist. This study shall determine
initial study of a public or private the scientific value of finds, if any,
project). and a recommendation as to their
preservation or disposition.
2. If the literature search indicates a
LU-A21
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Land Use
3. Prior to approving a project, the importance to local communities, and
approving agency shall make a in such cases a local plan may desig-
determination based on the above nate these sites or structures for special
report as to what conditions would land use regulation.
be necessary to preserve the ar-
chaeological or paleontological Whenever there is construction, altera-
resources. tion, demolition, grading or other use
or activity proposed for a designated
4. When a determination has been historic site or structure, the proposal
made to salvage the finds, a should consider the following:
reasonable period of time shall be al-
lowed prior to the start of grading to 1. Insofar as is economically and
adequately salvage the site. physically feasible, the integrity of
significant historical features of the
It is recommended that any materials structure and/or site should be main-
collected during surface surveys or sal- tained.
vage operations be donated to an ap-
propriate nonprofit institution. In the 2. The proposal should preserve the
event the property owner wishes to integrity of sightlines to the struc-
retain possession of the artifacts found, ture.
it is desirable that archaeologists or
paleontologist be allowed to study and 3. If it is not economically and
photograph the artifacts. physically possible to maintain the
integrity of the structure or site, a
Historic Sites and Structures: His- reasonable period of time should be
toric sites and structures include all allowed prior to approval to explore
places, structures or objects currently other methods of preservation.
identified or to be identified in the Na-
tional Register of Historic Places, the 4. Development in the vicinity of a
State Department of Parks and Recrea- historical site or structure should be
tion Inventory and the Los Angeles designed so that the uses permitted
County Historical Landmarks Commit- and the architectural design wrn
tee Inventory. These sites and struc- protect the visual integrity of the
tures are considered to be of site or structure, including the con-
countywide significance and to require sideration of building heights,
preservation to the most feasible ex- materials, textures, colors, setbacks
tent. It is recognized that there may be and landscaping.
other sites and structures which are not
on the above lists but which may have
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Land Use
Appendix B
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction...............................................LU-BI
B. Urban Hillside Management Areas............................LU-B1
1. Intent................................................LU-B1
2. Urban Hillside Management Area Defmed.................LU-B2
3. General Conditions for Development....................LU-B2
4. Performance Review Criteria...........................LU-B3
C. Non-Urban Hillside Management Areas........................LU-B4
1. Intent................................................LU-B4
2. Non-Urban Hillside Management Area Defmed.............LU-B5
3. General Conditions for Development....................LU-B5
4. Performance Review Criteria...........................LU-B8
D. Performance Review Procedure...............................LU-B 13
1. Required Findings.....................................LU-B 13
2. Performance Review Procedure..........................LU-B 14
E. Density Calculation Method.................................LU-B 17
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN LU-Bi
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List of Tables
Title Page
LU-B 1 Slope Density Relationship Non-Urban Hrnside..........LU-B5
List of Figures
Title Page
LU-B 1 Development Management Permit Process.................LU-15
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN LU-B ii
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Land Use
Land Use Element development that are appropriate
tywide. Consequently, local plans
Appendix B: (and specific plans) which regulate
Hillside Management( hillside standards for development
shall establish the maximum petmis-
Performance Review sible densities of development in
Procedure hillside areas under 50% slope.
B. Urban Hillside
A. Introduction ManagementAreas
The Hillside Management~erformance
Review Procedure is designed to
protect the health and safety of the 1. Intent
public from hazards typically as-
sociated with hillside areas and to
preserve natural resources and scenic The intent of the Hillside Manage-
values commonly occurring in hillside ment/Performance Review Procedure is
environs. In this regard, a key policy to ensure that development in an urban
of the Conservation and Open Space hillside management area is safe, fiinc-
Element reads: tionally and attractively designed and
compatible with surrounding land uses.
"Manage development in hillside areas Approval of residential development
to protect their natural and scenic proposals is contingent on the project's
character and to reduce risks from fire, ability to mitigate problems of public
flood, mudslide, erosion and landslide." safety and design, and to preserve dis-
tinct visual characteristics or com-
Within this broad policy context, more munity assets (such as oak trees).
definitive policy is set out below for
two distinct categories: ~ and IIQIl: It is further the intent to encourage the
~ hillside management areas. design of functional and innovative
projects. In this regard, appropriate
In view of the wide variation in hillside housing types may include single fami-
conditions existing in various areas of ly detached, attached townhouse or,
the County, it is difficult to establish a where zoning permits, multi-family
single set of hillside standards for structures. It is also the intent to
LU-B1
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Land Use
promote, where feasible, a greater Local Plan Options - Adopted
range of housing prices within urban areawide, local or specific plans may
hillside developments. more specifically defme permitted uses
and densities with the performance
criteria set forth herein, and will re-
2. Urban Hillside Management quire approval of a Development
Area Defined Management Permit.
b. Density Transfer
Urban hillside management areas are
defmed as lands characterized by Density transfer from steeper to more
natural slopes of 25% or greater, in- gently rolling and level land is en-
cluded within the urban classifications couraged as a means of preserving the
of the countywide General Develop- natural terrain, minimizing grading and
ment Policy Map and designated for reducing exposure to natural hazards.
urban use on the countywide Land Use A cluster concept may be utilized to
Policy Map. These areas are planned minimize adverse visual impacts on
to receive an uiban level of services
such as roads, utilities, and commercial neighboring residential uses as long as
it does not substantially alter the charac-
and public facilities. ter of existing neighborhoods.
Local Plan Options - Adopted local or
3. General Conditions for specific plans may set more specific
Development standards to govern density transfer
and clustering, or they may prohibit
a Slope/Density Relationship such practices altogether.
Urban hillside management areas may C Natural or Open Area Standards
be developed within the range of use
tppes and intensities established by the A minimum of twenty-five percent
applicable land use policy map. (25%) of a project site shall be retained
Residential development greater than in a natural or open condition. Open
the midpoint of the permitted density space may consist of open areas in
range will be reviewed for compliance public ownership, common private
with performance criteria set forth ownership or private yards. Subject to
herein, and will require approval of a approval by the Regional Planning
Development Management Permit. Commission, required open areas may
include: common open space for pas-
sive recreation; areas graded for round-
LU-B2
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Land Use
ing of slopes to contour appearance; areas (as distinct from non-urban
areas of scenic beauty; riding, hiking hillside management areas) as a means
and bicycle trails; areas cleared for fire of mitigating hillside hazards (e.g.,
suppression; and landscaped areas ad- landslides, flooding, or erosion
jacent to streets and highways. Clear- problems). However, where major
ing and grading required by the County landform changes would be detrimental
for such purposes as arterial highway to visual quality and community charac-
access, and/or major utility fights-of- ter, engineering solutions may be deter-
way, may be exduded from the open mined to be inappropriate. The
area calculation. appropriateness of proposed engineer-
ing solutions will be determined on the
Local Plan Option - Adopted local or basis of compliance with site design
specific plans may set natural or open criteria for urban hillside management
area standards in excess of the mini- areas.
mum countywide standards outlined
above. c. All slopes must be developed in ac-
cordance with the County grading or-
dinance. Where a brush fire hazard
4. Performance Review Criteria exists on the perimeter of a project, a
buffer zone of irrigated landscaping
Development within urban hillside must be maintained on the site to
management areas, as contrasted with diminish the hazard.
non-urban hillside management areas, Quality of Design:
will generally require increased grad-
ing, greater traffic capacity on streets, d. Site Design : The suitability of the
more extensive drainage facilities and location, type, separation, height and
greater pedestrian capacity. Within
this framework, the following criteria schematic design of buildings and
shall apply: landscaping in relation to the site and
surrounding area, particularly the ap-
Public Safety: pearance of proposed development as
viewed from existing developed areas
a. Urban hillside development must and scenic highways, will be con-
meet all applicable County and State sidered in reviewing all development
subdivision requirements. proposals. Site planning, grading,
b. In most cases, engineering solutions
will be given greater consideration in
urban hillside management
LU-B3
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Land Use
landscaping, and construction techni- ~ NonmUrban Hillside
ques which preserve, protect and en-
hance the visual character of hillside Management Areas
land forms are encouraged. A develop-
ment should be designed to:
1. Preserve to the degree possible 1. Intent
major natural features including
major drainage courses, riparian The intent of the Hillside Manage-
vegetation, rock outcroppings and ment~erformance Review Procedure is
stands of oaks and other native trees. to ensure that development in anon-
urban hillside management area, where
2. Preserve significant views from it occurs, will be located in the most
major existing residential areas. suitable and least environmentally sen-
sitive areas and will be designed in
3. Ensure that graded slopes are terms of scale and intensity in a mariner
landscaped and that such landscap- compatible with the natural resource
ing is maintained. values and general character of the sur-
rounding community. Approval of
4. Apply innovative approaches to residential development proposals that
house placement, using techniques exceed the low density threshold will
such as stepped multilevel and can- be based on the ability to mitigate
tilevered designs. natural hazards and provide for com-
patible hillside design.
In addition to the above, the following
performance criteria for non-urban The application of specific perfor-
hillside management areas shall also mance criteria may vary depending on
apply: Road Design, Building Place- the particular topographic, geologic
ment and Design, Landscaping, Utility and biotic characteristics of a proposed
Lines, and Signs. project site. However, the overall ob-
jective remains that of ensuring that fli-
ture hillside development provides for
the safety and convenience of corn-
munity residents and achieves an over-
all visual quality harmonious with the
non-urban hillside setting.
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Land Use
2. Non-Urban Hillside 3. General Conditions for
Management Area Defined Development
Non-urban hillside management areas The General Plan recognizes non-urban
are defmed as lands characterized by hillside development to be an issue of
natural slopes of 25% or greater, not regional significance. The Plan also
designated for future urban use nor embodies local plans which consider
scheduled to receive an urban level of the effects of hillside development at
services. Such areas are included the local level. The following condi-
within the non-urban classifications of tions for non-urban hillside develop-
the General Development Policy Map ment respond to these two levels of
and Land Use Policy Map. These concern by providing for the specific
lands are generally illustrated as deterinination of residential densities at
Hillside Management Area on the Spe- the local level while at the same time
cial Management Areas Policy Map. preserving non-urban hillside amenities
(See the Conservation and Open Space as regional assets.
Element).
Residential Uses
a. Slope Density Relationship1
Residential development shall be sub-
ject to the density standards shown in
Table LU-B 1:
Table LU-B1
Slope Density Relationship
Non-Urban Hillside
Natural Slope Low High
25 to 50% 1 d.u./10 acres 1 d.u]2 acres
Greater than 50% Not Applicable 1 d.u./20 acres
1 The HiZiside ManagementlPerformance Review Procedure does not apply to development on lands of Zess than 25% natural
slope. Seepage LU-A8, for General Conditions and Standards applicable to non-urban residential development.
LU-B5
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Land Use
All residential development proposals slopes of 50% (2:1) and above shall
at densities exceeding the low density constitute the maximum permitted den-
threshold (as calculated utilizing the sity in all nonuiban unincoiporated
methodology appearing on page places.
LU-B 17) will be reviewed for corn-
pliance with the performance criteria C. Density Transfer
set forth herein, and will require a Density transfer from steeper slopes to
Development Management Permit. more gently rolling level land is en-
The density granted by the Permit will couraged as a means of preserving the
reflect the extent to which performance natural terrain, mimizing grading and
criteria are met. reducing exposure to natural hazards.
Where a cluster concept is employed,
Ldcal Plan Options - Where adopted development should minimize adverse
local or specific plans apply, they estab- visual impacts on neighboring residen-
lish the maximum non-urban densities tial uses and not substantially alter the
for lands ranging from 25 to 50% character of existing communities. In
slope. These plans may reflect the no event is density transfer permitted to
countywide standards set forth above, areas of a project site predominantly in
or may set standards more appropriate excess of 50% natural slope.
to protection of identified local hillside
resources. Notwithstanding these local- Local Plan Options - Specific transfer
ly adopted standards, all residential provisions may be established on the
development proposals exceeding the basis of an adopted local or specific
low density threshold established coun- plan. Such plans may establish regula-
tywide will require approval of a tions on clustering and lot arrangement
Hillside Development Management to meet local community preferences
Permit. The density granted will and characteristics.
reflect the extent to which hillside per-
formance criteria are met. In no case d. Natural or Open Area Standards
will overall densities be higher than the Within non-urban residential hillside
maximum of one dwelling unit per acre developments, a minimum of seventy
established for all nonurban areas. percent (70%) of a project site shall be
retained in a natural or open condition.
b. Areas of 50% Natural Slope and Subject to approval by the Regional
Above Planning Commission, required open
Due to the higher probability of ex- areas may include: common open
posure to fire, erosion, and landslide space for passive recreation; areas
hazards in extreme slopes, a standard graded for rounding of slopes to con-
of 1 dwelling unit per 20 acres for tour appearance; areas of scenic
LU-B6
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Land Use
beauty; hiking, riding and bicycling also impose special review require-
trails; areas cleared for fire suppres- ments. Sut~ect to the above condi-
sion, and landscaped areas adjacent to tions, the following uses may be found
streets and highways. Clearing and appropriate:
grading required by the County for
such purposes as arterial highway ac- a. Industrial uses involving ex-
cess, and/or major utility rights-of-way plosives manufactwing, storage of
may be excluded from the calculation. volatile substances, and certain re-
The designated natural or open area search, development and product
may consist of open space lands in testing facilities requiring the
public ownership, common private seclusion afforded by hillside ter-
ownership, or private yards. rain. Such uses are encouraged to
locate in the least environmentally
Local Ptan Options - An adopted local sensitive areas of the County;
or specific plan may set natural or open
area standards in excess of the mini- b. Agricultural activities including
mum countywide standards outline livestock grazing, bee-keeping, or-
above. chards and vineyards;
Non-Residential Uses c. Limited commercial and highway
oriented uses necessary to serve
Many non-residential uses may be ap- local residents and travelers;
propriately located in non -urban
hillside management areas. Certain d. Waste disposal facilities that re-
uses, by their nature, may require quire canyon locations as a buffer t6
remote hillside locations. Neverthe- urban uses. Effectuation of ap-
less, for reasons of public safety, proved site restoration plans shall be
resource protection and general land required at the termination of such
suitability, safegnards are necessary to uses;
discourage intensive development and
to minimize environmental disruption e. Commercial resort and recreation-
and the loss of scenic and open lands. al uses including visitor accommoda-
Where it is determined that specific tions, services and facilities, when
uses may appropriately be located in designed in a manner compatible
hillside environs, they shall be with and sensitive to surrounding
reviewed for compliance with ap- natural resources and scenic
plicable performance criteria. Addi- amenities.
tional factors, such as the presence of
significant ecological resources, may
LU-B7
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Land Use
f. Mineral extraction uses such as Mitigation measures may include either
quarries and oil and gas fields. Ef- avoidance of the potential hazard area
fectuation of approved site restora- or the identification and application of
tion plans shall be required at the adequate engineering solutions.
termination of such uses; and
All excavations, roads, utilities, struc-
g. Utility installations, including tures and other facilities shall be
communication, water and power designed to corppensate for problem
facilities. soils and other subsurface conditions.
Except for linear systems for which
there is no alternative alignment,
4. Performance Review Criteria landslide hazard areas shall be avoided.
The performance review criteria out- Where a hillside development is
lined below for non-urban hillside proposed in an area indicated as a
management areas are grouped under major fault zone, it shall be
four major headings: Public Safety, demonstrated through a geologic report
Resource Protection, Suitability for that structures will be located in such a
Development, and Quality of Design. manner as to minimize the risk to life
and property in case of a major seismic
event. No structures for human oc-
Public Safety: cupancy are permitted across or within
50 feet of the trace of an active or
a. Geologic, Seismic and Slope potentially active fault.
Stability Conditions
If geologic and soil reports indicate b. Fire, Flood and Erosion
that the project site is affected by poten- 1. Fire: For development occurring on
tially hazardous geologic, seismic, or
slope stability conditions, the Depart- brush-covered slopes, the County
ment of Public Works shall require, in Forester and Fire Warden will require
compliance with the County Building adequate fire protection capabilities
Code, mitigation measures to safeguard based on fuel load, topography,
2 weather conditions, access, ex-
life, health and property. posureloccupancy and water supply.
2 Potential geologic and soils problems include, but are not limited to, the presence ~active or inactive stide areas, active
and potentially active fault nfts, corrosive soils, shrink-swell conditions, or unstable foundation materials such as alluvium,
shale, terrace deposits and schist.
LU-B8
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Land Use
To assist in efficient emergency high mudflow potential, taking into
response and fire protection in desig- consideration areas of high fire hazard
nated fire hazard areas, the project and erosion potential located uphill or
should include: 1) the use of fire retar- upstream from flood prone areas. The
dant construction techniques and interrelationship of these potential
materials (woodshake shingle roofs and hazards, and satisfactory measures to
siding--both treated and untreated--are protect against them, should be
expressly prohibited); 2) clearance of demonstrated. Engineering criteria for
brush for a minimum of 30 feet sur- development in hlllside areas are as fol-
rounding individual structures as re- lows:
quired by the County Fire Code; 3)
protective irrigated planting areas sur- a. Account for runoff and debris
rounding individual structures with from tributary areas, considering
provisions for maintenance (the use of each lot;
appropriate drought-resistant plants
and fire resistant materials requiring b. Compute runoff debris amounts
minimal water is encouraged); 4) a using Department of Public Works
development pattern which provides a criteria;
defensible fire perimeter (fuel breaks,
concentrated pattern, or other c. Design lot and locate improve-
measures); 5) provision for adequate ments so debris can be accom-
identification of dwelling units by modated without damage to
prominent signs indicating street names improvements and with access to
and house numbers; and 6) location of street for cleanup;
entrances to structures within a dis-
tance of street access acceptable to the d. Provide for passage of flood
County Forester and Fire Warden. water and debris to a safe point to
discharge (street, channel, debris
2. flood and Erosion: Development basin, etc.) without damage to im-
should be located at such distances provements or slopes. Natural
from floodways (watercourses) as deter- stream gradients shall not be altered
mined by the County so as not to inter- (i.e. flattened) unless approved by
fere with natural drainage during Los Angeles County as consistent
severe storms nor become endangered with public health, safety and wel-
by such runoff. fare; and
During the early phases of project plan- e. Where the runoff flow rates and
ning, an identification should be made debris quantities are too great to be
of any flood prone area or areas with acconimodated, as described above,
LU-B9
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Land Use
an adequate debris basin and open f. Scenic Resources
channel with access for maintenance The project should protect the visual
should be provided. quality of highly scenic areas and
views from scenic highways, roads,
Resource Protection: trails and key vantage points.
c. Drainage Networks Suitability for Development:
All water courses should be maintained
m as natural a state as possible, `mm- g. Proximity to Services
mizing modification of the natural car- The practicality of providing adequate
rying capacity or production of public services without incurring un-
excessive siltation. usual public costs should be
demonstrated. Public service exten-
d. Biotic Resources sions into hillside areas should address
The project design should recognize existing and projected service problems
the value of biotic resources and and deficiencies. Those improvement
demonstrate a minimal adverse impact costs which benefit only a particular
on wildlife habitat areas. Removal of development should be borne by that
natural vegetation should be minimized development, while costs of improve-
by focusing development on land with ments beneficial to a greater segment
less natural cover. The presence of sig- of the overall community should be
nificant ecological resources may re- shared by the community. Develop-
quire special use, intensity and design ment within hillside areas should be
considerations beyond those mentioned reasonably accessible to shopping and
in this Hillside Managementl?erfor- other service facilities.
mance Review Procedure.
h. Water Supply and Waste Disposal
e. Cultural Resources Adequate water for domestic consump-
Whenever there is a substantial indica- tion and fire protection must be avail-
tion that significant historical, ar- able. Connection to public sewers or
chaeological, or paleontological provision of a central sewage treatment
resources may be located on the project and disal facility capable of ade-
site, a survey by qualified professionals quately serving all lots within the
shall be required and, where ap- development shall be required unless
propriate, a program for resource engineering studies clearly demonstrate
preservation or salvage shall be imple- the acceptability of private disposal sys-
mented. Whenever possible, the af- tems from the standpoint of geology,
fected portions of the site should be sanitation and water quality.
avoided for building puiposes.
LU-B1O
PAGE 80 Show Image
Land Use
i. R6ad Capacity and utility paxkm.g is required.
Adequate road capacity should be However, any modifications of current
demonstrated to accommodate the an- standards or design criteria should be
ticipated traffic of the proposed discussed with the Los Angeles County
development. Capacity to allow for in- Department of Public Works and other
gress and egress must be based on the interested departments prior to propos-
assumption that at least one lane of ac- ing a tentative project design.
cess road may be temporarily closed
due to slope failures or patking of emer- Special approval will be required under
gency vehicles. Road widths should be the Subdivision Ordinance for
designed for these contingencies but, gradients over 6% for any road iden-
wherever possible, kept to a minimum tifled on the Los Angeles County High-
to avoid excessive grading. The ability way Plan (commonly known as the
of major and secondary highways to Master Plan of Highways) and
serve as escape routes and to accom- over 15% for minor residential streets.
modate seasonal recreation traffic (in- Gradients of over 12% for collector
cluding weekend peak loads) from streets are acceptable only for short, in-
outside the area shall be considered in termittent stretches.
reviewing the development proposal.
k. Site Design and Grading
Quality of Design: The suitability of the location, type,
separation, height and schematic
j. Road Design design of buildings and landscaping in
All roads shall be designed for relation to the site and surrounding
vehicular and pedestrian circulation area, particularly the appearance of
capable of providing adequate means proposed development from existing
of ingress and egress for both residents developed areas and scenic highways,
and emergency or other service will be considered in reviewing all
vehicles. In hillside areas, the analysis development proposals. Site planning,
of site characteristics may allow for in- grading, landscaping, and construction
novative design of roadways to take ad- techniques which preserve, protect and
vantage of topography and views. enhance the visual character of the
Such roadway design, where ap- hillside land forms are encouraged. A
propriate in terms of safety and main- development should be designed to:
tenance costs, may minimize grading
and irnprove overall project design. 1. Minimize grading on the site and
Travelway width requirements shall be maximize retention of natural topog-
a minimum of 28 feet in the steepest, raphy.
lowest density areas, where no gnest
LU-B11
PAGE 81 Show Image
Land Use
2. Utilize contour grading to present of multi4evel residential development
a rounded or undulating appearance is encouraged to reduce grading, en-
blending with the natural terrain. hance view potential, and maximize
usable outdoor space. Major ridgelines
3. Protect the character of drainage should be preserved wherever possible.
courses, riparian vegetation, rock Where practical, structures should be
outcroppings, and existing stands of limited to one story on major
oaks and other native trees. ridgelines. In addition, clustered
development projects should be
4. Preserve significant views from designed to minimize adverse visual
major existing residential areas. impacts on neighboring residential
uses, and to achieve compatibility with
~. Minimize grading for roads, established community character.
streets, and storm drains consistent
with public health and safety. m. Landscaping
Subject to the fire protection criteria set
6. Protect against excessive sedimen- forth earlier, existing healthy and attrac-
tation and erosion caused by water, tive vegetation, especially specimen
burrowing rodents, etc. trees, should be preserved wherever
possible. New plant materials should
7. Limit grading to that necessary be selected which will effectively
for the primary use of each lot. screen or soften the visual impact of
(Curb paikways may be eliminated, new developments. Au cut-and-fill
and front yard requirements may be SlopeS over five feet in vertical height
reduced if this will facilitate less should be planted with adequate plant
grading and alteration of the site.) materials to protect against erosion.
Trees, shrubs and ground covers shall
8. Apply innovative approaches to completely cover exposed graded area.
house placement using techniques
such as stepped multi4evel and can- n. Utility Lines
tilevered designs. Undergrounding of all local utilities is
desirable. New overhead major utility
1. Building Placement and Design lines (e.g. power, telephone or transniis-
Placement of residential structures sion lines) should follow the least
shall be designed to preserve scenic visible route and cross ridgelines at the
values. Where feasible, structures most visually unobtrusive locations.
should be placed so that roof lines do
not protrude above road grade on the
down slope side. The imaginative use
LU-B 12
PAGE 82 Show Image
Land Use
0. Signs potential adverse effects in terms of
Signs are not to block significant hazards or resource loss, as well as
views, cause visual clutter, or disrupt providing the overall framework for im-
the sight line to the horizon. Where pact mitigation.
permitted, signs, including off-premise
outdoor advertising signs, are to be
careflilly designed to have a minimum 1. Required Findings
inipact on scenic features.
In order to ensure that future hillside
development is consistent with General
Plan goals and objectives and in corn-
D. Performance Review pliance with established performance
Procedure criteria, the approval of all hillside
development proposals within the pur-
view of the Hillside Management/Per-
All hillside development proposals on formance Review Procedure shall be
lands of 25% or greater natural slope supported by the following fmdigs:
are subject to, and shall be reviewed
for, compliance with applicable peffor- a. Public Safety
mance criteria.3 For projects not ex- The proposed project is located and
~jiig low-density thresholds (or designed so as to protect the safety of
density range midpoints in urban current and fliture community resi-
areas), compliance with applicable per- dents, and will not create significant
formance criteria will be reviewed as threats to life and/or property due to
part of normal case processing proce- the presence of geologic, seismic, slope
dures. Proposed developments exceed- instability, fire, flood, or erosion
~ established low density thresholds hazards.
(or density range mid-points in urban
areas) will require the additional b. Resource Protection
review and approval of a Development The proposed project is compatible
Management Permit. During the with the natural biotic, cultural, scenic
course of permit processing, impact and open space resources of the area.
analysis procedures provide an oppor-
tunity for the early identification of
3 Development proposals are d~nedas any application for approval or renewed approval of land division, zone designation,
use permit, or other similar applications provided for in present or~ture ordinances.
½
LU-B13
PAGE 83 Show Image
Land Use
C. Suitability for Development information regarding project site loca-
The proposed project is conveniently tion, topographic characteristics, slope
served by (or provides) neighborhood analysis, and preliminary development
shopping and commercial facilities, can concept to planning staff for review.
be provided with essential public ser- Staff will review the submitted slope
vices without imposing undue costs on analysis and advise the applicant as to
the total community and is consistent general development parameters and
with the objectives and policies of the options (i.e., performance review
General Plan. criteria and permitted density ranges),
and required permit approvals (i.e.,
d. Quality of Design zone change, Development Manage-
The proposed project demonstrates ment Permit, parcel map, tract map,
creative and imaginative design result- etc.).
ing in a visual quality that will comple-
ment community character and benefit If the proposed project involves non-
current and future community residents. urban residential development at a den-
sity at or less than the countywide low
density threshold, approval of a
2. Performance Review Development Management Permit will
Procedure be required. The same exception
will be applicable to urban hillside
The process outlined below (and development proposals that do not ex-
diagrammed in Figure LU-B 1) is ceed the midpoint of the permitted den-
designed to reduce the time, costs and sity range.
uncertainty involved in securing permit However, where non-urban and urban
approval for well-designed hillside hillside development proposals exceed
development, while ensuring that such applicable low density thresholds, corn-
development will not result in in- pliance with performance review
creased exposure to natural hazards or criteria will be assured through the
result in the loss of significant natural review and approval of a Development
resources. Wherever possible, concur- Management Permit.
rent processing of required develop-
ment perinits is desirable. The general Step #2 : Preliminary Development
steps involved in the performance Plan Review
review procedure are as follows: For projects requiring approval of a
Development Management Permit, the
Step #1: Pre-Application Counseling applicant will be invited to meet and
Applicants proposing to develop in discuss the preliminary project design
hillside areas are encouraged to submit
LU-B14
PAGE 84 Show Image
Land Use
Figure LU-B1
Development Management Permit Process
SITE IN HILLSIDE MANAGEMENT AREA? NO
YES
urban LOCATION? non-urban
¼ PRE-APPLICATION COUNSELING
F DMP_REQ~D _____________
___ OTHERAPPROVAL~
SITE PLAN REQUIRED
0
0 CONSISTENCY
EVALUATION MONITORlNG
05. CUMULATIVE I.--
IMPACTREVIEW J CASE CLOSED
LU-B1S
PAGE 85 Show Image
Land Use
with inVolVed planning staff. This step recommendations relative to the
will be integrated with present impact project's consistency with General Plan
analysis procedures and will precede policy and Hillside Management objec-
case filing. tives. Once prepared, this report will
be included in all applicable case files
Preliminary plan review will be and will be presented to the Regional
directed toward developing a project Planning Commission for consid-
which is both acceptable to the ap- eration at the public hearing on the
plicant and in conformance with proposed development.
hillside performance critefia. `Ti addi-
tion, this pre-submittal review will Step #5: Cumulative Impact Review
clarif~~ potential issues and establish a As part of the General Plan monitoring
tentative case processing schedule. system, the planning staff will concur-
rently evaluate proposed hillside
Step #3: Formal Case Filing developments for their cumulative im-
Based upon the information generated pact.5
in the preliminary plan review cycle,
the applicant may choose to file the This analysis will focus on the poten-
proposed development plan, or a tial impact of projects on nearby areas
modified version thereof, paying all re- (including natal resources, hazards
quired processing fees. In addition, flir- and visual character), and on the
ther data needs identified in the relationship of developments to the
preliminary plan review should be sub- Planning Area's growth projections in-
mitted at this time. dicated in the General Plan.
Step #4: Consistency Evaluafion Step #6: Project Review and Action
Following case filing, planning staff Based upon testimony presented at the
will reevaluate the project plan and in- public hearing, and the analysis
dude in the factual data report informa- presented in the factual data report, the
tion pertinent to project compliance Regional Planning Commission may
with specific performance critefia. (1) act to approve the proposed project
This report will provide a basis for su~ as being consistent~with County plan-
sequent Commission fmdings and ning policy; (2) request the applicant to
5 When development approaches the growth projections for a planning area, staff will advise the Commission so tizat timety
and orderly review of the General Plan may commence.
LU-B16
PAGE 86 Show Image
Land Use
revise the project in terms of scale, in- Step #2
tensity, or design to more accurately Calculate the total acreage within each
reflect Plan policies and objectives; or slope category.
(3) deny the proposed development due
to inconsistencies with applicable local Step #3
planning policy. Determine the Low Density Threshold
for the subject property and calculate
and total the number of permitted
dwelling units per acre for each slope
E. Density Calculation category utilizing the low end of the ap-
plicable urban or non-urban density
Method range.
The slope map to be used with the Step #4
Hillside Management~erformance Determine the maximum density yield
Review Procedure will show three and calculate and total the number of
categories of slope: under 25,25 to permitted dwelling units per acre for
50% and greater than 50%. The map each slope category utilizing the high
will be used to determine the permitted end of the applicable urban or non-
density range for a given parcel, and urban density range. If the property in
identify the most suitable areas for question is located within an area
development. The steps outlined covered by a local or specific plan,
below should be followed to determine maximum permitted densities shall be
applicable density ranges and governed by the adopted local plan.
thresholds:
Having prepared the required slope
Step #1 map and identified the permitted den-
Use a contour map to show parcel sity range, specific project proposals
boundaries. Segment out and identify will be reviewed relative to the
portions of the property characterized provisions of the Hillside Manage-
by natural slopes of under 25%, 25 to mentl?erformance Review Procedure
50% and greater than 50%. For larger set forth herein.
parcels (500 acres or more), identified
contour intervals should not exceed 20
feet. Intervals of 10 feet or less are re-
quired for parcels of less than 500 acres.
LU-B17
PAGE 87 Show Image
Circulation
I: Transportation Element
II: Scenic Highways
III: Plan of Bikeways
The complete text for I, II, and ifi, of the Circulation Element, noted
above, can be found in the Background Report.
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 88 Show Image
Circulation
I: Transportation Element
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 89 Show Image
Circulation
I. Transportation
Table of Contents
Section Page
Ae Introduction.......................................................C-i
B.Background..........................................................C-I
1. Historic Perspective..........................................C-i
2. Related Land Use, Energy and Environmental Issues.............C-I
3. Towards a Balanced Transportation System......................C-2
4. Transportation Safety and Security Issues.....................C-5
5. Intergovernmental Relations and Financing Concerns............C-S
C. General Plan Policy Maps...........................................C-5
D. Goals and Policies.................................................C-6
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN C-i
PAGE 90 Show Image
Circulation
A. Introduction to
Transportation
The Circulation Element sets the direc-
tion for the development of a com-
prehensive, coordinated, and
continuing transportation system for
Los Angeles County. The element
identifies the locations of major exist-
ing and fliture travel corridors based on
existing and projected land use pat- Street sizes and configurations reZate to the land uses that border them.
terns. The Element reflects broad input
on transportation planning for the fil-
ture. It also provides the foundation for munity locations. This was particularly
input from Los Angeles County to true after introduction of the motor
regional and statewide levels of vehicle, although earlier patterns of
transportation planning. growth were shaped by the railway sys-
tem. This interaction between transpor-
The Element includes a brief history of tation and land use has led to primarily
the relationship between tra'~rtation a dispersed urban and suburban expan-
and County development patterns. It sion pattern.
flirther discusses transportation and re-
lated land use, energy and environmen-
tal issues; countywide programs and 2. Related Land Use, Energy
projects designed to achieve a balanced and Environmental Issues
transportation system; transportation
safety and security issues; and inter-
governmental relations and financing The automobile is still the prirnary
means of transportation in the county
concerns.
and it requires a major road system.
The long distance transport ofpas-
sengers and freight is accommodated
B. Background by highways, air, sea, rail, and
pipelines. Each of these types of
transport requires a substantial amount
1. Historical Perspective of land and resources for upkeep, ex-
pansion and modification. Today, the
The availability of transportation in county needs to reduce the cost of
Los Angeles County strongly in- local government, conserve energy sup-
fluenced patterns of growth and corn- plies and irnprove air quality. To this
C-i
PAGE 91 Show Image
Circulation
end, urban land uses must become air quality, which is considered one of
more concentrated with more use of in- the most important problems facing the
fill and recycling of uses. In addition, County today and, likely, into the fli-
developing properties in proximity to ture.
public transportation can maximize its
use and reduce energy and fliel con-
sumption. 3. Towards a Balanced
Transportation System
Reducing single car occupancy and in-
creasing the use of public tran~~rta- Some of the available options towards
tion options can improve unhealthfiil achieving a more balanced transporta-
tion system are summarized below.
a. Transportation Systems Manage-
-~ ment
A system of incentives and restrictions
on transportation can encourage
motorists to participate in alternative
modes of transport. Incentives include
- - car and van pools, car pool lanes, and
- ;-- - preferential parking for car/van
~ ---i - poolers. Restrictions include no
preferential parking for single auto oc-
.#- cupants and freeway ramp meters.
- - b. Freeway Transit
The most common means of freeway
transit incentives is High Occupancy
- Vehicle (HOV) lanes.
~~¼ C. Community Circulation/Distribu-
-- - tion Systems
- High intensity urban centers are prime
locations where such transportation al-
Providing for the movement ofpeople and goods throughout the County ternatives as demand-responsive
requires a complex roadway system.
C-2
PAGE 92 Show Image
Circulation
busses, jitney service, fixed-route bus g. Transit Prospects
service, people-mover systems or corn-
binations thereof can be implemented. Public transit, such as SCRTD, re-
quires motorists to be attracted away
d. Rail Rapid Transit Facilities from exclusive use of the automobile.
To this end, the level of service must
Fixed-rail rapid transit is the next logi- be good, transit marketing must be
cal step for service improvements in used to increase public awareness of
some heavily traveled corridors as the services, and access must be con-
bus system approaches capacity. The venient to users
county exhibits widespread emergence
of moderately high density centers
which suggest the potential for a high-
speed transit network.
e. Commuter Rail
The use of existing railroad trackage
and facilities for commuter rail service
either already is operating or appears
feasible for operation along several cor-
ridors within the region. Some likely
rail routes could run from downtown
Los Angeles to: the San Fernando Val-
ley and Ventura County; the foothill
communities of the San Gabriel Val-
ley; the Pomon~alnut Valley;
Palmdale; and Long Beach.
New freeway construction is a costly and time-intensive task. The General
f. Joint Development Projects Plan shows the location ofpotential new freeways in advance of their
construction.
The joint development concept en-
visions hannonious public and private h. Highway Prospects
development at transportation stations
and may include residential, commer- While the use of highways for auto
cial, cultural, recreational, educational travel has not substantially declined,
and other uses. the dollar effectiveness for highway
improvements and transit service has
been seriously reduced by a number of
causes including inflation; limited
federal and State flinds; and sub-
C-3
PAGE 93 Show Image
Circulation
stantially increased land and construc- railroads. The extensive railroad net-
tion costs. work in the Los Angeles region is con-
nected to key points of the State and
i. Freight Transportation nation. This railroad network is a
major investment of the transportation
Most goods in Los Angeles County are system and can be extremely energy ef-
tranported by truck. The fuel con- ficient. Railroads offer a competitive,
sumed for moving freight by truck is alternative mode to trucking for goods
about 50 ton miles per gallon as com- movement. Likewise, with improve-
pared with 2 by airplane, 360 by oil ments in pipeline safety, the use of this
pipelines, 300 by waterway and 220 by energy-efficient, economic and non-
polluting mode of goods movement
could increase.
+ j. Aviation Facilities
Los Angeles International Airport
(LAX) is nearing its mandated
capacity, thus creating the need for
development of andlor expansion of
commercial airports located within the
- southern California metropolitan
region. The projected air travel
demand is expected to far exceed the
rates of population and employment in-
crease. Additionally, aviation services
are needed for personal and business
transport as well as police, fire, medi-
cal and agricultural uses.
k. Marine Facilities
4 ~ A variety of improvements will be im-
portant for increasing the efficiency
and capacity of Los Angeles County
marine facilities for commercial, in-
dustrial and recreational uses. These
The ocean access Los Angeles enjoys facilitates a wide variety ofwater- improvements include: deepening Los
oriented uses and circutation~nctions, including "highways" for a Angeles and Long Beach harbors;
thriving fishing fleet. providing longer, wider and stronger
C-4
PAGE 94 Show Image
Circulation
berths; allocating additional land for
cargo transfer and storage; and improv-
ing coordination between harbor, high-
way and railroad facilities for the
transport of freight. Such improve-
ments wrn enable the harbor facilities
to accommodate new larger ships and
to remain competitive.
4. Transportation Safety and
Security Issues
Issues associated with transportation
safety vary but include auto accidents Freeway design includes lanes to allow emergency vehicle access to
with other autos and with other means accident scenes.
of transportation (e.g. bicycles); the
transport of hazardous materials; and dination problems relating to transpor-
attacks on pedestrians and people wait- tation planning in the county.
ing at bus stops and other centers for
public transportation. California is faced with serious flinding
shortages in virtually all aspects of
transportation. Available flinds should
5. Intergovernmental Relations be allocated where they wrn be most ef-
and Financing Concerns fective and new sources of flinding
must be found to expand existing sys-
There has been a great deal of coopera- tems to support the substantial county
tion and coordination between various growth as well as attain a reasonable
agencies involved in the planning, im- choice in modes of transportation.
plementation and management of
transportation facilities in the county.
Due to the number of politically inde- C. General Plan Policy
pendent jurisdictions involved, Maps
however, conflicts occur and activities
overlap, creating communication and
coordination problems. The estab- The circulation policy maps depict the
lishment of the Los Angeles County existing transportation system and
Transportation Commission (LACTC) identify needed additions and improve-
in 1976 was designed to minimize coor- ments, all in accordance with the plan's
C-S
PAGE 95 Show Image
Circulation
growth and development policies and Policies
anticipated financial capabilities. Cir-
culation maps appear at the end of this 1. Provide transportation planning,
chapter. A flill explanation of map services, and facilities that are coor-
legends appears on the back of each dinated with and Support the County
map. of Los Angeles General Plan.
1. Transportation Policy Map 2. Provide transportation planning,
services, and facilities that provide
This map depicts the major transporta- access for equitable employment,
tion corridors anticipated for needs to educational, housing and recreation-
the year 2000. The emphasis is on al opportunities.
freeway routes, but there is also
coverage of rail rapid transit, aviation, 3. Support research for and
railroad and marine facilities and sys- development of new transportation
tems. technologies.
2. Highway Policy Map 4. Support low capital strategies
that maximize the efficiency and
This map depicts existing and potential cost-effectiveness of existing
highway routes to serve the urban area transportation facilities and systems.
until the year 2000. It identifies areas
and routes requiring expenditure of the 5. Encourage compatible joint use
majority of fimds targeted for main- and interfacing of transportation
tenance, rehabilitation, right-of-way facilities while minimizing modal
protection and new construction as conflict.
well as routes subject to special study
owing to impacts on Significant 6. Support the development of alter-
Ecological Areas. nate routes for through traffic to
bypass the metropolitan area and
provide traffic relief for the urban
D. Goals and Policies area.
7. Encourage railroad con~anies to
The General Plan retain and expand their vital role in
transportation, especially in goods
Goal: To achieve a transportation sys- movement.
tern that is consistent with the com-
prehensive objectives of the General 8. Improve the compatibility be-
Plan and the needs of the residents. tween aviation facilities and their
C-6
PAGE 96 Show Image
Circulation
surroundings through improved land Policies
use control mechanisms and tech-
nological improvements. 14. Plan and develop bicycle routes
and pedestrian walkways.
9. Encourage the Los Angeles and
Long Beach Haibor Departments to 15. Provide opportunity for timely
effect improvements that wrn better citizen input and guidance in the
accommodate and attract deep draft transportation decision-making
vessels. process.
10. Promote the concept of a single, 16. Encourage communities to par-
multimodal transportation trust flind ticipate with existing transit
to provide for capital, operations operators in the improvement or
and maintenance flinding. development of community level
transit, where financially feasible to
11. Seek and support the estab- the community.
lishment of sources of revenue to
provide adequate flinds for transpor- 17. Encourage provision of transit
tation. service at a reasonable cost to the
users and the community.
12. Encourage the elirnination of
1tred tape" and categorical restric- 18. Support use of non-vehicle im-
tions on federal aid and State flind- provements (e.g. improved signaliza-
ing programs. tion, parking management) to
reduce peak-hour congestion.
13. Promote continued coordination
among federal, State, regional and 19. Encourage greater use of public
local agencies involved in transpor- transit to special-puipose centers
tation matters. and recreational facilities.
Responsive System 20. Stress environmental com-
patibility (including air quality,
Goal: To achieve a transportation sys- noise, ecology, aesthetics, and
tern that is responsive to economic, en- health and safety) in developing
vironmental, energy conservation and transportation systems.
social needs at the local community,
area and countywide levels. 21. Avoid or minimize the adverse
impacts upon people, businesses and
communities caused by develop-
ment of transportation facilities.
C-7
PAGE 97 Show Image
Circulation
22. Avoid construction oftranspor- 28. Provide for the safe movement
tation facilities within significant of hazardous materials.
ecological areas unless found essen-
tial following a detailed analysis of 29. Support the provisions of ade-
alternatives including a "no project" quate recreational boating facilities.
alternative. if the facility is still
found to be necessary, it shall be Efficient and Balanced System
constructed in the most environmen-
tally sensitive manner. Goal: To achieve an efficient,
balanced, integrated, multimodal
23. Support technical research and transportation system that will satin
development by automobile short and long-term travel needs for
manufacturers directed toward the movement of people and goods.
reducing ernissions, fliel consump-
tion and noise. Policies
24. Encourage the efficient use and 30. Coordinate land use and
conservation of energy used in transportation policies.
transportation.
31. Support the development of a
25. Promote the development of al- mass transportation system that will
ternatiye energy sources for provide a viable alternative to the
transportation to reduce reliance on automobile.
petroleum.
32. Support continued improve-
26. Develop a contingency plan, ment and expansion of the present
using the fill' resources of an ex- bus system as a public service.
panded transit system including car
and vanpooling, for use in the event 33. Support a public transit system
of a fuel shortage or other un- that provides accessible service, par-
foreseen crisis. ticularly to the transit dependent.
27. Provide transportation facilities 34. Support development of rail
that will improve the safety, security transit or exclusive bus lanes in high
and dependability of all transporta- demand corridors when sufficient
tion modes and provide for seismic patronage, cost-effectiveness and
safety and effectiveness in emergen- support of land use policies are as-
cy situations. sured.
C-8
PAGE 98 Show Image
Circulation
35. Support completion of the high-
way and freeway routes necessary to
make the system operate efficiently.
36. Develop parking management
plans for application in selected
areas of urban concentration.
37. Support traffic-operation im-
provements for improved flow of
vehicles.
38. Develop alternative transporta-
tion systems and procedures which
will effectively reduce vehicle miles
traveled (VMT) by automobiles.
39. Encourage greater multimodal
access to major airports and im-
prove internal circulation within
these facilities.
40. Encourage the development of
a decentralized system of major air-
ports to serve commercial and
general aviation activities.
41. Support improvements that
would increase the efficiency of
cargo handling, storage and modal
interfacing.
C-9
PAGE 99 Show Image
Circulation
II: Scenic Highways
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 100 Show Image
Circulation
II. Scenic Highways
Table of Contents
Section Page
A.Introduction.................................................C-1()
B.Background...................................................c-b
C. General Plan Policy Map.....................................C-12
D. Goals and Policies..........................................C-12
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN C-i
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Circulation
A. Introduction to Scenic
Highways
The pwpose of this element is to estab-
lish and protect scenic highways in
Los Angeles County by identif~ring
and evaluating a system of existing
roads that traverse areas of scenic
beauty and interest. The aesthetic, cul- The Pacific Coast is one of the most valued scenic resources in the County
tural, historical, and recreational fea-
tures located along these roads can be
seen and enjoyed by all residents either B. Background
by bicycle, bus, private automobile, or
other modes of transportation.
Throughout the element, consideration The county has been richly endowed
with natural aesthetic resources such as
has been given to protection of en- mountains, forest lands, beaches,
vironmental, social, and economic
values associated with aesthetic scenic varied native vegetation and desert
areas. Urban aesthetic resources in-
corridor resources and expansion of dude missions, skyscrapers, historical
the opportunity for the enjoyment of parks and monuments, and unusual ar-
these resources. chitecture in museums, amphitheaters,
This element emphasizes the develop schools and other stnictures.
ment of a system of scenic corridors Yet, the visual pollution associated
predominantly along existing road- with the proliferation of billboards,
ways and establishes priorities for ft'- signs, utility lines, and unsightly urban
ture corridor studies. Importance is
uses detracts from and often obscures
also placed on providing a practical many of our scenic resources.
means to protect scenic resources
within selected corridors. The Scenic qualities have sometimes been
proposed system includes candidate materially reduced because of lack of
routes of countywide significance, in- attention to aesthetics in highway and
cluding city routes of more than local freeway design. Occasionally too, the
importance.
opportunity for a road to enhance a
scenic experience is missed due to in-
sufficient consideration of the view-
point of the user.
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Despite these problems, ample oppor- spoiled vistas of the coast, desert, and
tunities exist to manage them and mountains. In addition, urban centers
provide the basis for generating a suc- offer numerous views embracing build-
cessfiil scenic highway program. Most ings of outstanding architectural and
importantly, Los Angeles County al- historical interest. In terms of scale,
ready has many roads within scenic these scenic resources vary from the
areas which can serve the dual puipose picturesque to the awesome and
of providing a transportation flinction deserve specific evaluation as they re-
while protecting and enhancing ad- late to existing roadways.
jacent aesthetic resources.
Prior to the County's effort to identify
Another available opportunity is the scenic corridors only one highway
variety and extent to which Los An- received official designation --the An-
geles County is endowed with scenic geles Crest Highway.
resources. Despite large-scale
development, there remain many un- While the County recognized a variety
of scenic drives in the 1965 Regional
Recreation Areas Plan, there has been
only limited progress in establishing
implementing ordinances and protec-
tive land use regulations. The local ef-
fort is compounded by the lack of
incentives in the State program.
The Scenic Highway Advisory Com-
inittee, formed to advise the State, has
noted that more thought needs to be
given to the provision of incentives to
local governments for protection of
scenichighways.
The low-key nature of programs and
litniteA -~
~rsons w£~uy
the
number of
affected by scenic highways has
resulted in a general lack of public
awareness.
Some scenic resources have been lost,
Urban development d'anges the scenic qualities found in some areas of reducing the areas that could potential-
the County. ly be considered for scenic highway
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designation. Some of the causes in- transportation compatible with
dude urban development, air pollu- scenic highway criteria and stand-
tion, and lack of aesthetic attention in ards.
highway and freeway design.
4. Encourage the fair distribution
of social and economic costs and
C. General Plan Policy benefits associated with scenic high-
ways.
Maps
5. Promote the use and awareness
of scenic highway amenities for all
The adopted Scenic Highway System segments of the population.
Map appears at the end of this Chapter.
It indicates the routes proposed for 6. Encourage increased citizen par-
scenic highway designation. ticipation in the scenic highway
programs at all governmental levels.
D. Goals and Policies Recreational Opportunities
Goal: Enhanced recreational oppor-
Alternate Transportation Modes tunities served by a system of scenic
highways.
Goal: A scenic highway system serv-
ing the public through a variety of Pohcies
transportation modes.
7. Establish and maintain rural
Policies scenic highways to provide access
to scenic resources and serve recrea-
1. Establish a countywide scenic tional users.
highways system in urban and r'iral
areas. 8. Establish and maintain urban
scenic highways to provide access
2. Encourage utilization of ap- to interesting and aesthetic man-
propriate existing roads as scenic made features, historical and cul-
highways rather than the construc- tural sites, and urban open space
tion of new routes. areas.
3. Provide a comprehensive scenic
highway system which safely ac-
commodates various forms of
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Aesthetic Resources
Goal: Preservation and enhancement
of aesthetic resources within scenic
corridors.
Policies
9. Protect and enhance aesthetic
resources within corridors of desig-
nated scenic highways.
`10. Develop and apply standards
to regillate the quality of develop-
ment within corridors of designated
scenic highways.
11. Remove visual pollution from
designated scenic highway cor-
fidors.
12. Require the development and
use of aesthetic design considera-
tions for road constniction,
reconstruction or inaintenance for
all designated scenic highways.
13. Increase governmental commit-
ment to the designation of scenic
highways and protection of scenic
corridors.
14. Improve scenic highway coor-
dination and implementation proce-
dures between all levels of
government.
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Circulation
III: Plan of Bikeways
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 106 Show Image
Circulation
III. Plan of Bikeways
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction.............................................C-14
B.Background................................................C-14
C. General Plan Policy Maps.................................C-14
D. Goals and Policies.......................................C-14
E.Glossary..................................................C-18
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN C-i
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Circulation
A. Introduction to which wrn, when implemented, en-
hance bicycle transportation
Bikeways throughout the County.
The Los Angeles County Plan of
Bikeways sets forth a coordinated C. General Plan Policy
framework for bike routes throughout Map
the County while allowing room for
each of the cities within the County to
incorporate city routes and unique fea- Accompanying the text, and included
tures of their own. at the end of this chapter, is a mapped
policy indicating existing and future
The Plan of Bikeways has been bikeway corridor routes. These should
prepared to guide the development of not be interpreted as precise locations.
an interconnected network of coun- The bikeways plan does not show
tywide bicycle corridors. It recognizes many of the community or local routes
and encourages the use of the bicycle planned by cities and uiiincorporated
for personal transportation and recrea- neighborhoods.
tion. The Plan anticipates that each
city wrn adopt a more detailed bicycle
feeder system to supplement the agreed D. Goals and Policies
upon countywide network.
Convenience
B. Background Goal: Convenient bicycle routes
throughout the County.
Across the United States and locally,
there has been a resurgence of interest Policies
in bicycling as evidenced by increased
bicycle sales, increasing numbers of 1. Develop an interconnected sys-
bike-related accidents and demand for tem of bikeways and bikeway sup-
safe facilities to accommodate the port facilities.
bicyclists. Bicycling represents a
quiet, non-polluting means of transport. 2. Require new subdivisions to
The Plan identifies major inter-city develop bicycle facilities where
and inter-community bicycle corridors feasible.
C-14
PAGE 108 Show Image
Circulation
3. Require redevelopment projects 11. initiate a program to provide
to provide bicycle facilities within bike racks, lockers and other
their boundaries. security devices at public parks,
buildings and other activity centers.
4. Solicit and use all sources of
local, regional, state and federal 12. Encourage the provision of bike
flinds to plan, acquire rights-of-way racks, lockers and other security
and construct bikeways. devices at all private activity centers.
5. Seek new means for acquisition, 13. Separate bicycle from
construction and maintenance of automobile traffic whenever it is
bikeways and support facilities. physically and economically
feasible to do so.
6. Utilize existing and abandoned
public rights-of-way for present and 14. Accommodate bicycles by
future bikeways where feasible and modif~~ing and widening existing
where a need can be demonstrated. roadways and shoulders.
7. Locate bikeways along desig- 15. Eljininate conflict between
nated scenic highways wherever en- bicycles and parked and parking
vironmentally, physically and vehicles whenever it is physically
economically feasible. and economically feasible to do so.
8. Provide trees and other ap- 16. Initiate a bicycle registration
propriate landscaping along program in unincorporated County
bikeways, whenever feasible. areas and encourage otherjurisdic-
tions to do the same.
9. Provide turnouts, shelters,
campgrounds, hostels, toilets and 17. Support state and federal
trash receptacles for off-road bike programs which develop and
facilities where needed and feasible. evaluate bicycle equipment stand-
ards.
10. Construct bikeways which con-
nect recreational, educational, cul- 18. Enact uniform ordinances (in
tural, commercial and industrial cooperation with other jurisdictions)
facilities with residential areas. which control the operation of
bicycles on off-road bikeways.
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19. Encourage citizen participation * Encourage the Department of
in the planning, financing and Education, the Department of
development of bikeways. Motor Vehicles, the Highway
Patrol and other appropriate agen-
Safety cies to develop a bicycle safety
text and distribute this text to all
Goal: Initiate comprehensive safety involved in bicycle programs.
education program for both bicyclists
and motorists. * Disseminate bicycle safety infor-
Policies mation to the public via these
same agencies.
20. Encourage adoption of safety
education program which wrn: 21. Continue to publish and dis-
tribute brochures and other literature
* Encourage bicycle safety courses on bicycle safety.
in the public and private school
curriculum and similar courses in 22. Encourage more uniform and
the high school driver education stricter enforcement procedures by
program. law enforcement agencies.
* Encourage preschool and adult 23. Encourage all judicial personnel
bicycle safety courses and make who work with the Vehicle Code
them available through public (including juvenile and traffic court
agencies. judges) to adopt uniform procedures'
in dealing with bicycle infractions.
* Include on-the-bicycle instruc-
tion as part of the safety educa- 24. Encourage the news media to
tion program. make public service announcements
regarding bicycle safety and opera-
* Encourage law enforcement agen- tional rules of the road.
cies to provide bicycle safety and
enforcement training for their per- 25. Sponsor a news program which
sonnel. emphasizes the public's need to be
made aware of bicycles on the road-
* Encourage judicial agencies to way.
provide similar training to their
personnel (including juvenile and
traffic court judges) who work
with the Vehicle Code.
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Circulation
26. Monitor accident and safety data,
identify and solve safety problems,
and keep the public informed as to the
need for strict observance of safety
practices.
Linkages with Other Systems
Goal: Provide bikeways which inter-
connect with other transportation
modes.
Policies
27. Coordinate the implementation
of bikeways with other transporta-
tion modes.
28. Encourage other agencies to
provide space, where feasible, for
recreational and commuter bicycles
on public transportation systems.
29. Encourage other jurisdictions to
adopt a comprehensive bikeway sys-
tem which interconnects with the
County's system.
30. Coordinate the planning and~im-
plementation of feeder bikeways
which connect regional bikeways
with regional mass transportation
facilities.
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Circulation
E. Glossary protection against wave action used
generally for safety or emergency use.
Carpool, anpool, Subscription Bus, High Density Area
Ride Pooling An area of high population density
A group riding concept wherein corn- characterized by high concentrations of
muters with approximately the same employment or multiple dwellings.
origin and destination travel together
and share their commuting expenses. High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)
The three main forms of group riding Motor vehicle occupied by three or
or ride pooling are the subscription more persons. Vehicles include
bus, the vanpool, and the carpool. automobiles, vans, buses, and taxis.
Community Level Transit HOV Preferential Treatment
System providing transit service within Any treatment that gives HOV opera-
a local community. tions priority over the general flow of
traffic.
Commuter Rail Service
Mass transportation concept ofutiliz- Jitney Service
ing railroad facilities for commuting A small vehicle that carries passengers
purposes. over a regular route according to a
flexible schedule.
Corridors
Travel routes that are used by large Joint Use
volumes of traffic. The term implies common use of a
right-of-way or facility by two or more
Freeway nonconflicting uses.
A freeway is a divided highway for
through traffic widi flill control of ac- Long-term
cess to adjacent property. Ten or more years into the filture.
General Aviation Facilities Low Capital Intensive Strategies
Qassification of air transportation deal- Low cost short-term improvements to
ing with small aircraft for business and maximize the efficiency of the existing
recreation. transportation system. Areas for review
include traffic engineering, regulations,
Harbor of Refuge pricing structures, management and
Natural harbor with some protective operational improvements.
development (e.g. breakwater) for
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Master Plan of Highways Peak Hours
Arterial highway system of Los An- Those hours of the day when traffic
geles County, first adopted by the volumes are at their highest hourly
Board of Supervisors in 1940 and con- count.
tinually modified and updated.
Short-term
Modal Conflict Now to five years into the fliture.
Situation existing when two or more
modes of transportation must share the Significant Ecological Areas
same right-of-way creating a safety Ecologically important or fragile land
hazard or causing disruption to one or and water areas valuable as plant and
all modes involved. animal communities.
Mode Ton Miles per Gallon
Any fomi of transportation such a A measurement of the number of miles
private motor vehicle, public transit, one ton of goods can be transported
railroad, bicycle, walking, pipeline, using one gallon of fuel.
boat or plane.
Transit Dependent
Multimodal Facilifies Individuals dependent on public transit
A transportation system comprised of to meet private mobility needs, e.g. the
more than one modal network to young, the elderly, the handicapped,
provide the user with a reasonable those unable to drive, the autoless,
choice. those not licensed to drive, etc.
Parking Management Transportation Systems Manage-
Planned procedures whereby ment (TSM)
automobile parking in metropolitan A program which addresses short4erm
areas is controlled or managed for pur- improvements to maximize the efficien-
posed of controliing traffic, access, cy of the existing transportation sys-
mobility, and air quality. tem. Areas for review include traffic
engineering, public transportation,
Passenger-mile regulations, pricing structures, manage-
A statistical unit denoting one mile ment and operational improvements.
traveled by one passenger, who may
also be the vehicle operator, used in Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
measuring the volume of passenger traf- A unit used to indicate the amount of
fic. highway use; equal to the number of
vehicle trips times the length of each
trip.
C-19
PAGE 113 Show Image
Housing Element
H~ousing Element
Part I of the Housing Element
Adopted by the
Board of Supervisors
County of Los Angeles
November 2, 1989
Amended December 17,1992
The complete text of this element, including implementation
programs and background infonnation is available firm the
Department of Regional Planning. The 1992 Amendment
concerning preservation of assisted housing is also available.
PAGE 114 Show Image
Housing Element
Table of Contents
Section Page
~e liltroduction . * . . . . * . . * . . e * * . . e * e * . * . * HE - 1
1. ~cconiplishinents . ..... .. ...........*.. . . * e. * e * e * e HE - 1
2.CitizenParticipation...................................HE-2
3.ContentoftheHousingElement.................. HE-2
B.Backgroundandlssues ................ HE-3
1.CountywideNeedsAnalysis................................HE-3
L Housing Supply and Affordability......................HE -3
b. Overcrowding and Illegal Residences..................HE -3
C. Housing Quality......................................HE -4
d. Housing Discrimination...............................HE -4
e. Populations With Special Housing Needs...............HE -4
f. Unincorporated Housing Needs.........................HE -5
2.TheHousingEnvironinent.................................HE-6
a. Population and Employment Trends.....................HE -6
b. Household Characteristics............................HE - 6
c. Housing stock........................................HE -6
d. Housing Supply Constraints...........................HE -6
C. Housing Plan for Unincorporated Los Angeles
1.QuantifiedObjectives...................................HE-9
2. Housing Goals and Policies .........................HE- 10
a. Housing Quantity.....................................HE - 10
b. Maintenance and Improvement of Affordable Housing.... HE- 10
c. Housing Affordability................................HE - 11
d. Housing Opportunity..................................HE - 11
imp- i
PAGE 115 Show Image
Housing Element
List of Tables
Title Pa~
H - 1.........................................HE - 4
People With Special Housing Needs
H - 2.........................................HE - S
Los Angeles County Share of Regional Housing Needs
H - 3.........................................HE - 8
Unincorporated Urban Residential Vacant Land Inventory
H-4...........................................HE-9
Los Angeles County Housing Element Quantified Objectives
HE -ii
PAGE 116 Show Image
Housing Element
A. Introduction
Housing and Community Development to
The attainment of decent housing in a stimulate private sector development of
suitable living environment for every Los affordable housing including:
Angeles County household is a high * permitiing senior citizen residences as
priority. Piogress toward this goal second units in single family zones;
requires the cooperation of government
and the private sector in an effort to * encouraging residential development of
expand housing opportnnities and surplus public lands;
accommodate the housing needs of
residents of all economic levels and * legalizing manufactured housing in all
ethnic backgrounds. This Housing residential zones;
Element represents a commitment on the * mainta~g an adequate supply of land
part of Los Angeles County government for uiban residential uses;
to work toward attainment of this major
public policy, and to meet the i~ire- * offering density bonuses for affordable
ments mandated by the California housing; and
legislature. * initiating assessment financing of new
irif~tructure and off site improvements
1. Accomplishments to reduce increases in up-front develop-
ment costs.
Since the last revision of the Housing
Element, adopted in 1986, significant Authorized housing starts continued at a
steps have been taken by many agencies, rapid pace over the past three years. The
non-profit organizations, the develops estimated 12A90 housing permits autho-
ment community, and others throughout rized throughout the unincorporated
Los Angeles County towards the goal of county in 1987 is the highest annual level
providing decent housing for all Los since 1965.
Angeles County households. The County However the goal of decent housing for
takes pride in its contributions which in
the past three years have included: all county residents remains a distant one
for many. Housing prices and rents rose
financing purchase of about 2,400 very rapidly over the past few years. The
single family dwellings and construc- median single family housing price
tion of about 2,200 multi-family units reached more than $180,000 in 1988 an
forlow- and moderate-income house- increase of more than 75% over 1980(1).
holds through mortgage revenue Rents appear to have increased more than
bonds; 100% over approximately the same
period. Continued intense effort by both
* constructing 750 public housing units; the public and the private sector is needed
and, to begin to meet local housing needs.
* expanding the Section 8 progi~m to Public flinds have been increasingly
3,100 additional households. limited and housing needs must compete
with other public concerns for limited
The County of Los Angeles has also revenue. The private sector, with its
implemented many incentives and greater access to capital and more efficient
opportunities recommended to local production methods, must be relied on as
jurisdictions by the State Department of the major provider of housing.
HE-I
PAGE 117 Show Image
Housing Element
The primary role of County government housing throughout the entire county
is to facilitate, through planning and including its 85 cities.
cooperative efforts, greater private
investment in both the construction of
new housing and the renovation of The Housing Element consists of three
existing housing. Where the private pails. This introduction is Part A. Part B
sector fails or is unable to meet the needs presents a summary of background
of specific groups of people such as low- infonnation on countywide housing
income households - including the problems, and a statement of
disabled, elderly, homeless and unincoiporated housing needs for the next
farmworkers - the County, supported by five years. Part C, the housing plan for
resources from the State and Federal unincorporated Los Angeles County,
government, should intervene to help presents quantified objectives, goals and
meet basic shelter needs. policies for the maintenance, improve-
ment and development of housing. The
2. Citizen Participation time period covered by this Element is
Private citizens, interest groups and July 1989 through June 1994.
government agencies provided input
throughout the Housing Element revision
process. of significant note is the contri- A five year schedule of housing programs
butions of the Countywide Citizens' and activities which the County intends to
Planning Council (CCPC) which pro- implement is provided in the County ~
vides advice and recommendations to the Los Angeles General Plan !n'plementa-
Regional Planning Commission and the tion Program (under separate cover). In
Board of Supervisors concerning General addition, the ftill text of the Housing
Plan policy. The Housing Subcommittee Element background report is included in
of the CCPC monitors the County's the County ofLos Angeles General Plan
housing planning process, and its input Background Report (under separate
has resulted in policy and program cover). These two documents are avail-
directions reflected in this document able from the Department of Regional
Planning.
In addition a concerted effort was made
to notif~ a broad range of housing
organizations, agencies, and interest
groups during the Housing Element In regards to data cited in this Housing
public hearing process. Element, the major source for recent
population figures, housing units, number
of households, household size, types of
3. Content of the Housing housing units, and vacancy factors is the
Element Department of Regional Planning's semi-
annual estimates, published as the Bulle-
As apart of the Los Angeles County tin. These population and housing
General Plan this Element addresses not estimates have been maintained since
only the direct responsibility of the 1942, and are based on staff monitoring of
County for the unincorporated areas, but building pennits, utility vacancy rates,
also provides a policy fi~ewoik for the and household size factors.
improvement and development of
HE -2
PAGE 118 Show Image
Housing Element
B. Background and
Issues
incomes. The Southern California Asso~
1. Countywide Needs Analysis ciation of Governments (SCAG) estimates
that 618,528 households, 21% of all
~ Housing Supply and households in the county, are lower
Affordability income and are paying more than 30% of
Between 1980 and 1988, an estimated their incomes for housing. In the
249,946 net units were added to the unincorporated area, SCAG estimates that
county housing stock, an 8.8% increase. 58,985 lower-income households (17% of
In the same time period the general all households) are overpaying for hous-
population increased by 12A% and ing. The California Association ofReal-
households (e.g. occupied housing units) tors estimates that only 20% of all
increased by 9.1 %(2). There was a households in the county can afford to
consequent reduction in the estimated purchase the median priced single family
vacancy rate fiom 4.3% to 4.0%. A unit sold in 1988, based on income alone.
vacancy rate of 5% is generally consid- Apartment rents appear to have at least
ered a minimum for healthy housing doubled, on average, between 1980 and
markets. 1987(3).
Trends in the unincorporated area are
more difficult to evaluate because of the
effect of municipal incoiporations. In the b. Overcrowding and Illegal
past 3 years (1985 to 1988), Residences
unincorporated housing units increased Overcrowding, defined as units with more
by 21,660(6.8%), however households than 1.0 persons per room, is a symptom
increased by 22,029 (7.2%).* The of imbalances in housing supply and
overall vacancy rate consequently demand. Countywide, about 11% of the
decreased fiom 3A% to 3.1%. occupied housing stock was overcrowded
in 1980; using this rate it is estimated that
These figures actually mask the severity about 333,600 dwellings were over-
of the affordable housing supply problem crowded in 1988. Overcrowded units
in the county because they do not reflect comprised about 12% of the total occu-
the 40,000 households estimated to be pied units in the unincorporated areas in
living illegally in garages, the 30,000 to 1980; in 1988 it is estimated to be about
60,000 homeless people, and the thou- 39,000 dwelling units.
sands of people living in overcrowded
conditions. In addition, over the next Another indicator of the housing
decade thousands of low-income units affordability problem is the increasing
subsidized under federal housing pro- number of illegal dwelling units. In 1987,
grams could revert to market rate under the Los Angeles Times estimated that
original contract provisions permitting over 40,000 garages in Los Angeles
mortgage prepayment. County were being lived in illegally by
about 200,000 people(4).
Housing prices and rents have increased
extremely rapidly in the past few years, __________________________________
far outpacing the growth in household * Unincorporated area data includes the City of
Diamond Bar which incorporated in April1989.
HE-3
PAGE 119 Show Image
Housing Element
C. Housing Quality
unincorporated areas involve race and
Age of housing is a general indicator of nearly 20% concern the presence of
housing quality. Countywide about 17% children(6). Discrimination is a major
of all housing units were built before contributor to many housing problems
1940. In the unincorporated area the including homelessness, overcrowding,
housing stock is somewhat newer; it is and substandard maintenance. Discrimi-
estimated that about 12% of all units were nation is evidenced in the disproportion-
built prior to 1940. The cwi~nt Los
Angeles County Housing Assistance Plan ate number of people of racial or edinic
estimates that about 7.3% of all dwelling minorities who are ill houses
units in the ulban county are substandard
and about 0.5% of the tool cannot be
economically rehabilitated and need to be e. Populations With Special Housing
replaced(s). Unreinforced masonry Needs
sttuctures that are seismically unsafe The housing opportunities of groups such
encompass about 45,000 dwelling units in as senior citizens, people with disabilities
the City of Los Angeles alone, and about and the homeless, are limited by lack of
100' dwelling units in the unincorporated income, discrimination, and too few units
areas. designed for their needs. In addition, for
these groups in particular and the county
population as a whole, there is a tremen-
d. Housing Discijinination dous need for affoidable childcare ser-
Housing discrimination continues to vices and facilities both in residential
areas and employment centers. Table H-i
discourage many people fi~ renting or identifies the major special housing needs
buying the homes of their choice.
groups and their presence in the county
The Fair Housing Congress of Southern population It is assumed that these
California finds that 50% of all investi- groups are represented equally in the
gated discrimination cases in the unincoiporated population.
ThbIe H-i
People With Special Housing Needs
Estimated Percent of
Group Number of People County Population
Lower income overpaying
for housing 1.7 million 20%
Female headed 1.2 million 14%
Homeless 30-60,000 1%
Senior Citizens 900,000 10%
People with Disabilities 530,000 6%
-Muscular/Skeletal 225,000 3%
-Cardiovascular 95,000 1%
Large Households 417,000* 14%*
Sources: (7), (8), (9), (1()), (11).
* Households
HE -4
PAGE 120 Show Image
Housing Element
to adequately house the projected popula-
f. Unincorporated Housing Needs tion growth, taking into account target
Table H-2 identifies the existing and five vacancy rates and anticipated demolitions.
year (1989-1994) housing needs for Future need is fiii~er broken down into
unincorporated Los Angeles County as the number of units that need to be
contained in the Regional Housing Needs affordable to each household income
Assessment (RI{~~A) developed by the category. Very low-income units must be
Southern California Association of affordable to households making no more
Governments (SCAG). It should be noted than 50% of the County median income.
that these numbers include the City of Low income is defined as 80% of median;
Diamond Bar. Existing housing needs is moderate income is up to 120% of
defined as existing lower-income house- median; and, high income is above 120%
holds paying more than 30% of their of media
incomes for housing. The unincorporated Included in the projected need is a calcula-
area is estimated to contain 58,985 such
households out of 338,364 (17A% of the tion of additional need accrued from the 1
total). 112 year `gap' period from January 1,
1988 to June 30, 1989. The `gap' is an 18
In regards to ~ture need, the Los Ange- month inteival existing between the last
les County unincorporated area wrn regional needs assessment and the current
require 34,039 additional dwelling units one.
Thble H-2
Los Angeles County Share of Regional Housing Needs
Existing Housing Need Unincorporated Area
Total Households 311,879
Total Lower-Income Households 108,533
Lower-Income Households
Overpaying for Housing 54,6,13
-Very Low-Income Households 36,744
Owners: 8,359
Renters: 28,385
-Low-Income Households 17,869
Owners: 5,492
Renters: 12,377
Future Housing Need: through June 1994
7/1989-6/1994 `Gap'Period TotalFuture Percent
Housing Need' Housing Need2 Need of Total
Total Units 33,866 173 34,039 100%
* Very Low-Income 5,148 26 5,174 15%
* Low-Income 7,112 36 7,148 21%
* Moderate-Income 6,062 31 6,093 18%
* High-Income 15,544 80 15,624 46%
Source: (7).
Notes: `This is the five year housing need developed by SCAG.
~ `gap' period need is an estimate of the number of additional units to meet housing needs
fiom the period January 1988 to June 1989; calciilation is shown in the list of sources at end of
Element under (7).
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Housing Element
It should be noted that this estimate of b. Household Characteristics
fliture housing need for the In January 1988 there were an estimated
unincorporated area does not include the 2,978,649 households in the county-
need to develop sufficient housing for 293,234(9.8%) of these were in the
homeless people, for people who are unincorporated areas. Generally, since
currently living in illegal garage units, 1980 the proportion of single person
and for those doubling up in existing households has fallen, while married
residences. These populations need access couple, single parent and non family
to an adequate supply of housing that is households have increased proportion-
affoi~lable to very low- and low-income ately. Average household size countywide
people. Based on the unincorporated has increased fi~ 2.69 persons in 1980
area's current share of the county's to 2.77 persons in 1988. In the
population, and assuming that these ill unincorporated areas overall, household
housed populations are evenly disuibuted size averaged 3.25 persons in 1988.
throughout the county, the unincorporated
area could absorb 5,000 additional units if
they were sufficiently low cosL Produc- ~ Housing Stock
ing this quantity of low cost housing, As of January 1988 there were an esti-
however, is probably economically mated 3,103,376 housing units in Los
unfeasible given the cLirrent problem of Angeles County- 338,364(10.9%) in
federal deficits; providing adequate the unincorporated areas. During the past
housing for these groups will require deep decade, slightly more than 73% of all
government subsidy of new constmction units added in the county have been
~or rents.
multifamily which now complise 44% of
the total housing stocks Renters resided in
neady 50% of the total occupied stock in
2. The Housing Environment 1987. In the unincorporated areas almost
L Population and Employment 22% of the housing stock is multi family.
Trends Mobile homes, typically located in trailer
Population growth in Los Angeles paiks, comprise an estimated 1.5% of the
County rebounded in the 1980s reaching countywide and 2.9% of the
unincorporated housing stock. Mobile
8,407,440 people in January 1988(2). The homes which meet modem standards for
unincorporated area population, currently construction and safety are peimitted in
estimated at 969,524, has declined since all residential zones in the unincorporated
1960 because of municipal incorpora- areas. They must comply with develop-
tions. General Plan population and ment standards applicable to all single
employment projections (refer to page 1-8 family residences.
of the General Plan), foresee a year 2000
county population of 9.3 million people
and a year 2010 population of 9.9 `nil-
lion. Employment will total more than d. Housing Supply Constraints
5.2 million jobs in the year 2000 and Housing development directed at the for-
neady 5.8 million in 2010. The interpo- purchase maiket is very sensitive to
lated 1994 projections would be about 8.8 changes in mortgage interest rates. These
million people and 4.8 million jobs. rates, which are currently at about 11%
for fixed rate loans february 1989), are
expected to rise in the near future due to
HE -6
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Housing Element
concerns about inflation and the federal schools and highways are being addressed
budget deficit Interest rate increases will through legislated fees and assessment
have a dampening effect on housing districts.
construction and will preclude many The Regional Planning Department
thousands of households flom qualifying utilizes its automated Development
for standaid home mortgages. Housing Monitoring System to analyze the indi-
developed for lower-income households vidual and cumulative effects of develop-
has generally been subsidized by the ment proposals upon urban service
federal government However, federal systems mcluding water, sanitation,
flinds for new ~iuction of low- schools, fire protection, and libraries. The
income housing have been drastically Appendices of the Countywide General
reduced since 1980. Plan Land Use Element set out the
Increased land costs appear to be one of procedures used for ensuring that service
the major factors explaining the rapid rise demand fiom existing and proposed
in housing prices and rents. The remain- development, will be met by planned
ing supply of raw, developable land is public facility capacities. Development
very limited and demand is high. Various qualification standards are employed
types of development impact fees have which are designed to ensure that ad-
also added substantially to the cost of equate public services and facilities will
housing. These include school, paik, and be provided in conjunction with new
road assessments, sewer connection, and development
development processing fees. Case processing times are another con-
Local government policy in the form of straint affecting the development of new
General Plan land use designations and housing. The time cost of money invested
related zoning affect the supply of land in in land is a significant component of
terms of its capacity. The remaining housing costs. Efforts continue to stream-
vacant uit)an land inventory designated line processes through ordinance amend-
by the General Plan appears to be suffi- ments, reorganization, and automation of
cient to house the 5-year projected case files.
housing needs of 34,039 housing units. A flirther concern is the effect that
This conclusion will be verified during General Plan policy, zoning, building
Fiscal Year 1989 utilizing a new data codes, and enforcement actions can have
base being developed as part of the
on peoples' efforts to maintain and
County's zoning consistency effort The improve housing. Housing that is not in
vacant residential land inventoried in
conformance with the existing zoning can
Table H-3 includes only urban desig- be difficult to secure financing for,
nated lands for which infrastructure whether for a mortgage or home improve-
services are generally available. These ment lo~ Conllicts between zoning and
areas are adjacent to existing urban areas General Plan policy may forestall new
in which urban services have been
provides Public services are required to construction and related property im-
be incrementally extended as part of the provements. Building codes and enforce-
ment procedures do not appear to pose a
conditions of development approval. significant constraint to the maintenance
Within rapidly developing areas such as and improvement of housing.
the Santa clarita Valley, short term
capacity constraints in services such as
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Table H 3
UnincorDorated Urban Residential Vacant Land lnventorv
Undeveloped Prolects2 Existing Urban Areas3 Undeveloped Areas4
Proposed Dwelling -i
Acreage Dwelling Net Dwelling Gross Unit Total
Vacant Land in Prolects Density Units Acreage Density Units Acreage Density Capacity Units
(includes Manu- Igrosacre ~net ac. Igross ac. 23,200 d.u. 40,000 d.u.
Single-Family 8,250 ac. 1-7 d.u. 14,300 d.u. 400 ac. 1-8 d.u. 2,500 d.u. 5,500 ac. 1-6 d.u. 9,700 - 26,500 -
factured
housing
Multi-Family 550 ac. 7-15 d.u. 5,500 d.u. 100 ac. 9-22 d.u. 1,400 d.u. 350 ac. 7-15 d.u. 2,800- 9,400 -
igross met acre Igross acre 4,200 d.u. 11,500 d.u.
acre
50 ac. 15-40 900 d.u. 140 ac. 22-30 d.u. 3,400 d.u. 50 ac. 15-40 d.u. 800 - 5,500-
d.u. Inetacre Igrossac. 2,000d.u. 6,700d.u.
gross ac.
10 ac. 30-50 d.u. 400 d.u.
Infill
Single-Family 200 ac. 1-8 d.u. 1,200 d.u. 1,200 d.u.
met ac.
Multi-Family 100 ac. 20 d.u. 2,000 d.u. 2,000 d.u.
av.lnet ac.
Revitalization `200 ac. 20 d.u. 4,000 d.u. 4,000 d.u.
av.lnet ac.
Totals e,eso ac. - 20,700 d.u. 1,150 ac. - 14,900 d.u. 5,900 ac. - 13,000- 48,600-
29,800 d.u. 65,400 d.u.
Notes: `This table presents an estimate of vacant land designated by the General plan for residential development.
2Acreage in development proposals approved, in some cases recorded, but not yet built.
~Vacant subdivided residential land within urban planning areas such as East Los Angeles and Altadena.
4Gross acreage designated for urban residential development within outlying planning areas such as the Santa Clarita Valleys. Includes development proposals in the
Santa Clarita Valley which have not received tentative approval.
(
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Housing Element
TableH-4
Los Angeles County Housing Element
Quantified Objedives units)
COUNTY PROGRAMS
New Constriiction Countywide Unincorporated~
Single Family Mortgage Revenue Bonds (Low-Income) 3,750 1,850
Density Bonus (Low- or Moderate-Income) - 1,000
Public Housing 300 150
Redevelopment - 900
Totals 4,050 3,900
ConservationlAffordability
Section 8/Vouchers (Includes 13,642 current units) 15,500 7,750
Public Housing-Existing 3,250 1,900
Multi Family Revenue Bonds (20% Lower-Income) 1,000 500
Rental Rehabilitation Loans (Lower-Income) 2,000 1,000
Housing Rehabilitation Loans (Low-Income) 1,000 500
Section 8 Moderate Rehab (Low-Income) 300 150
Redevelopment-Rehabilitation 500
Redevelopment-Home Improvement 1,000
Handy Worker Services (Low-Income) ______ 2.500
Totals 23,050 15,800
PRIVATE SECTOR#
New Construction 30,000
Rehabilitation 1,000
GRAND TOTALS
New Construction 33,900
Rehabilitation/Repair 6,650
Affordability
1Accounts for total units financed or owned by the County, many of which are located in
incorporated areas.
2Units financed or owned by County and located in the unincorporated areas only: an estimation.
3Up to 40% of the bonds funds issued can be used by lower-income households to purchase
existing homes.
4lncludes all units built or rehabilitated without County funding.
II. almost all of these wrn be affordable to
C. i;iouslng Plan for lower-income households. The attanment
Unincorporated Los of these objectives depends heavily on
Angeles County flinding levels of the State and Federal
governments.
1. Quantified Objectives Section 8 rental vouchers, provision of
public housing, and rehabilitation pro-
The County's short i~nge (1989-1994) grams of the County are projected to help
housing objectives are quantified in directly or indirectly maintain and im-
Table HA. Approximately 3,900 hous- prove about 15,800 units throughout the
ing units are projected to be developed in county unincorporated areas as affordable
the unincoiporated area through various housing. Private-sector construction is
forms of County financial assistance; defined as units developed without the
HE-9
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Housing Element
L Housing Quantity
assistance of County housing fluids. Goal 1:
Plivate-sector construction is anticipated A sufficient quandty of dwelling units to
to average about 6,000 units per year,
about 25% less than the average number meet the housing needs ofthepopuia-
of units authorized by building pennits uon, pwl~cu£ariy those of lower-income
over the pastS years. The reasons for this househoids and odor special needs
projected downturn include expected groups such as the elderly and the
interest rate increaees, the effects of homeless.
recent incoiporations and annexations, Policy 1: Encourage private sector
and the expected decline in multifamily
constiuction due to federal tax reform in participation in the development oflow-
1986. and moderate-income housing.
Plivate-sector rehabilitation of housing Policy 2: Support and facilitate the
units is very difficult to project because development of housing affordable to
lower-income households, and encourage
there is little reliable data available. An the dispersal of new lower-income
estimated 25,000 housing units cun~ntly housing throughout the unincoiporated
require rehabilitation in the
unincoiporated area. However, what is areas of the county.
not known is how many of these units are Policy 3: Support the design and con-
improved annually through private-sector struction of rental housing to meet the
efforts and, concurrently, how many needs of lower-income households,
other units slip into the substandard particularly large families, senior citizens,
category through lack of maintenance. and people with disabilities.
Permits issued by the County for residen- Policy 4: Assist private sponsors and
tial additions, alterations and repairs developers to identify, aggregate, and
average over 7,300 units per year. As a prepare land suitable for housing develop-
conservative estimate, it is assumed that ment for low- and moderate-income
1,000 net units needing rehabilitation wili families and individuals and other special
be brought up to standard each year needs groups.
through private-sector efforts. Policy 5: Encourage wherever appropriate
and consistent with sound planning
objectives, the conversion ofnon-residen-
tial buildings to residential usage.
2. Housing Goals and Policies
This section of the Housing Element
presents the goals, policies and major b. Maintenance and Improvement
programs of the County's housing efforts. of Affordable Housing
The implementation programs are based Goal 2
on a 1989-1994 time frame, a shortrange Mwntatn housing in sound cond~tio~n in
period for which flinding can be reason- neighborhoods ~ are safr and he~~-
ably estimated and projects can be fUL
planned as well as implemented; the 1994
target year coincides with the housing Policy 6: Encourage the investment of
needs statement time frame in Part B both public and private resources to
above. reverse housing and neighboitiood
deterioration, and to discourage the
unnecessary demolition of dwelling units.
HE -10
PAGE 126 Show Image
Housing Element
Policy 7: Seek the removal of housing Policy 13: Continue to streamline case
units that are so deteriorated that they do processing procedures, as well as regula-
not provide decent and healthy habitation tions, ordinances, codes, and standards to
and cannot be economically rehabilitated. reduce government impacts on develop-
Support efforts to assist residents in ment costs.
relocating.
Policy 14: Encourage joint housing
Policy 8: PrOvide and rehabilitate corn- programs between and among developers,
munity facilities, services and infrastruc- profit and non-profit corporations, County
ture to enhance the vitality of older and departrnents, and other local governments
lower-income neighborhoods. to increase the efficiency and cost-
effectiveness of housing programs.
Policy 9: Minimize displacement in
revitalization areas and provide for Policy 15: Encourage the use of energy-
expeditious and equitable relocation. saving technologies, on a cost~ffective
Require the relocation and rehabilitation, basis, in the design, construction, and
or replacement, of any low- and moder- operating systems of existing and new
ate-income housing units removed by residential buildings to reduce utility costs
public redevelopment actions. to fliture residents.
Policy 10: Identi~ and seek to conserve Policy 16: Require, where feasible, the
distinct, viable residential neighborhoods inclusion of low- and moderate-income
by recognizing these in the policies of the housing in residential developments
General plan, including its area and within the coastal zone.
communityplans.
Policy 11: Regulate the conversion of d. Housing Opportunity
rental units to condominium or stock-
cooperative ownership to ameliorate the Goal 4
effects of relocation upon tenants. Adequate housing, accessible to employ-
ment and community services for all
persons, regardless of race, elhnic
Housing Affordability background, sex, age, man~ status,
income, ordtsabIii:y.
Goal3
A housing supply that ranges broadly Policy 17: Require the location of low-
enough in price and rent to enable all and moderate-income housing near
househoids, regardless of income, to employment opportunities and reasonably
secure adequate affordable housing. accessible to public transportation; avoid
placing an inequitable fiscal impact on
Policy 12: PrOmote and expand zoning, any particular neighborhood.
land division, and construction incentives
to reduce the cost of new and rehabili- Policy 18: Facilitate the establishment of
tated housing, to increase development of licensed family day care homes within
low- and moderate-income housing, and residential areas, and the inclusion of
to encourage the use of manufactured childcare centers in major residential and
housing and other lower-cost housing non-residential developments.
options.
Policy 19: Support the establishment of
Iii~~-11
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Housing Element
shelter facilities and transitional housing
for homeless people in a diversity of Regarding Table H-2: Gap Period Hous-
county locations with appropriate support ing Need:
services.
Net housing stats January 1988 thiough
Policy 20: Promote actions to assist November 1988(11 months)1: 6,033 d.u.
persons residing in motels and other
temporary quai~ers to obtain permanent Total gap period housing need January
housing. 1988 through June 1989 (18 months)2:
10,160 d.u.
Policy 21: Oppose discriminatory acts
related to housing, including acts that 11 months of data/i 8 month gap =61.1%
have the effect of discrimination, and
affirmatively promote equal opportunity 10,160 d.u. X .611=6,208 d.u.
in housing and community development 6,208 - 6,034=173 d.u. deficit in meet-
programs, countywide, public or private, ing gap housing neeCL
without regard to race, color, religion,
sex, sexual orientation, national origin, 173 X .152=26 ~u. very low
disability or presence of children. income
173 X .210=36 ~u. low income
Sources 173 X.179=31 d.u. moderate
income
l.California Association of Realtors, 173 X A59 =80 d.u. high income
Cahfornia Real Estate Trends, September Sources;1 Los Angeles County Public
1988. Woiks Department, Building and Safety
2.Department of Regional Planning, Division
2Source (7).
Bulletin, No.153 published January 1989.
8.Department of Regional Planning, "Los
3.City of Los Angeles, Housing the Angeles County in 1980: A Statistical
Future, 1988, Section 5.1. Abstract," September 1984.
4.Los Angeles Times, "Garages: Immi- 9.County of Los Angeles, Comprehensive
grants In, Cars Out," May 24, 1987, Part Homeless Assistance Program, February
I, page 1. 1989.
5.County of Los Angeles, Community 10.Department of Regional Planning,
Development Commission, - "Housing Housing the Elderly, 1988.
Assistance Plan," February 1989.
1 1.State Department of Rehabilitation,
6.Southem California Housing Congress, California Disability Survey, 1981.
communication with Marcella Brown,
Executive Director, January 1989.
7.Southem California Association of
Governments (SCAG), Regional Housing
Needs Assessmentfor Southern Cahfor-
nia, June 1988.
HE -12
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
I. Conservation and Open Space Element
II. Regional Recreation Areas Plan
The complete text for the Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
chapter can be found in the Background Report. This Chapter was
adopted on November 25, 1980. The last text amendment was
adopted on December 4, 1986.
County of Los Augeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 129 Show Image
Conservation, Open, Space and Recreation
I. Conservation and Open Space Element
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 130 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
I: Conservation and Open Space
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction...................................................Os-i
B. Background.....................................................Os-i
1. OpenLandsliiventory.......................................OS-i
2. Land Capability and Suitability...........................05-2
3. Environmental Resources and Natural Hazards...............OS-3
C. General Plan Policy Maps.......................................05-8
1. Conservation and Open Space Policy Map....................OS-8
2. Special Management Areas Policy...........................OS-8
D. Goals and Policies.............................................OS-8
E. Glossary......................................................OS-13
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN OS-i
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
List of Tables
Table Page
1. Use of Existing Open Space in Los Angeles County.........OS-2
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN OS-u
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
A. Introduction B. Background
The Conservation and Open Space por-
tions of this Element set policy direc- 1. Open Lands Inventory
tion for the open space-related
resources of Los Angeles County. The county contains 2,613,0()0 acres
These resources include land and water (4,083 square miles) of land and inland
areas devoted to recreation, scenic
beauty, conservation and use of natural water. Seventy-five percent of this
area is either vacant, in agricultural use
resources, agriculture and mineral or existing open space. Ninety percent
production. The Element's policies are of the uncommitted open land is lo-
based on the need to conserve natural cated in the Santa Monica and Santa
amenities, protect against natural Susana Mountains, the Puente Hrns,
hazards, and meet the public's desire the Santa Clarita Valley and the rela-
for open space experiences. To protect tively flat lands of the Antelope Valley.
areas of significant natural resources The use of open lands is shown in
the Element recommends the retention Table OS-i.
of these areas in non-urban or open
space use. Special emphasis is placed
on protection of hillside character and
significant ecological areas.
The State of California declares that
open space is necessary for main-
tenance of the State economy, for the
enjoyment of scenic beauty and recrea
tion, for the protection and use of
natural resources, and for the produc-
tion of food and fiber. State policy dis-
courages premature conversion of open
space to urban use. The Element sup-
ports this policy and the general policy
direction of the General Plan to en-
courage a more concentrated urban pat-
tem by directing urban growth to
environmentally suitable locations. Some 3,000 square miles of open lands provides an exhilarating contrast
to the County's intense urban areas.
OS-i
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
Table OS-i
Use Of Existing Open Space
In Los Angeles County
(In acres)
Public Private Total
Outdoor Recreation 67,8001 4,000 71,800
Natural Areas & Arboreta 43,900 1,100 45,000
Water Supply & Conservation 13,000 200 13,200
Military Reservations 85,700 -~ 85,700
Other Committed Open Lands 28,500 8,900 37,400
Sub-Total 238,900 14,200 253,100
National Forest Lands 649,600 -- 649,600
Total 888,500 14,200 902,700
Source: Los Angeles County Department ~RegionalPianning, 1975.
I Includes 8,300 acres of local parks andS9,500 acres of regional parks, beaches and specializedfacilities.
2. Land Capability and acres of vacant and agricultural land
Suitability to support various land uses. The
key finding of the analysis is that lit-
tie prime or completely problem-free
The county conducted a comprehen- land remains for urban development
sive analysis to determine the
capability of more than one million in the south county. In addition,
Agriculture creates a special demandfor open space.
05-2
PAGE 134 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
much of the remaining vacant land ports measures to protect air quality.
deemed suitable in temis of natural Air pollution, however, remains a
factors is located in remote areas of critical problem in the County. Some
the Antelope Valley where the of the contributing factors to air pol-
demand for urban development has lution include rapid growth in the
been significantly less in the past region, a di~ersed pattern of ur- Two-thirds of the
than demand in the south county. banization, automobile exhaust and County'scritical
industrial emmissions. water supply
comes from the
3. Environmental Resources b. Energy Resources Owens Valley, the
and Natural Hazards Colorado River
The county, similar to other areas and Northern
across the nation has become increas- California.
a. Air Resources ingly dependent on petroleum and
natural gas for heating, cooling,
Good air quality is vital to the health transportation and other lifestyle
and economic welfare of the County. needs. These resources are limited
The County has participated and sup- and means of reducing their con-
sumption continues to be a challenge.
"`~~` `~ C. Water Resources
Los Angeles county has three natural
drainage systems: the Los Angeles
River, the Santa ciara River and the
Antelope Valley basins.
The coastal waters are recreational
and scenic assets and are used for
commercial fishing, industrial cool-
ing and coastal shipping routes.
Ground water provides about one-
third of the county's water supply.
Supplements are provided through
three import sources: the Owens Val-
ley and Mono Basin via the Los An-
Fresh ocean air provides the bright spot in the geles aqueduct; the Colorado River
County's air quality, but air pollution remains a aqueduct; and northern California
serious problem.
05-3
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
water via the California aqueduct. e. Biotic Resources
Water supply from these combined
sources is anticipated to meet demand The county's biotic resources can be
through the year 2000 although water broken into four geographic areas in-
conservation, recycling and ground cluding: 1) coastline, 2) hill and moun-
water replenishment may also be tain ranges, 3) desert and, 4) lowlands
needed. and inland valleys. Each of these
geographic regions has an associated
Although water supplies are generally ecologic unit.
of good quality, salt-water intrusion,
mineral buildup in underground storage The county has identified more than 60
basins, oil leakage from drilling opera- significant ecological areas (SEA's)
tions and other industrial pollutants that represent a wide range of biotic
have impaired the quality of some local communities. These areas also have
water supplies. stringent development standards as-
sociated with each.
d. Agricultural and Soil Resources
f. Mineral Resources
The U.S. Soil Conservation Service
groups soils into eight classes based on Local mineral resources consist of oil
agricultural potential. Class I or II and deposits of rock, sand and gravel.
soils, often referred to as prime soils, Most of Southern California's on-shore
are best for agricultural production. oil deposits are located in Los Angeles
Based on this classification, more than County. In addition, California is the
450,000 acres of prime agricultural soil largest producer of sand and gravel in
remain undisturbed by urbanization in the nation. The greater Los Angeles
the county. area is the nation's leading producer
for its geographic size. Sand and
The majority of this land is located in gravel reserves have declined in the
the Antelope Valley where water costs past due to the encroachment of incom-
and climatic conditions limit produc- patible development. These resources
tivity. In the south county, urban must be protected and conserved.
growth has eliminated most agricul- When mineral operations are complete,
tural acreage. As a result, the remain- the sites should be reclaimed for benefi-
ing agricultural activity has become cial uses or restored to a natural condi-
very specialized, shifting to crops of tion.
high value, such a nursery products, cut
flowers, vegetables and fruits.
OS-4
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
g. Scenic Resources
The scenic resources in the county in-
dude both natural and man-made fea-
tures. The peaks of the San Gabriel
Mountains rise 10,000 feet over the
basin, and the waters of the Pacific
Ocean and broad sandy beaches define
the western margm of the land. Stands Sculptures in the La Brea tar pits capture an ancient moment to share with
of pine, fir, and other evergreens cover thepresent.
the higher slopes of the San Gabriel
Mountains. The desert floor of the An- structures, museums, amphitheaters,
telope Valley is caipeted with fragile schools, parks and urban skylines.
wildflowers in the early spring. Build-
ings designed by notable architects and Muiholland Drive in the Santa Monica
other buildings of special significance Mountains is an example of a scenic
offer outstanding examples of varied road. Other roads that pass through
urban structures. Other man-made fea- the Angeles National Forest and by the
tures include historic San Andreas fault are considered
scemc routes.
Snow covered mountain slopes are a refreshing contrast to the County's predominately
Mediterranean climate.
OS-5
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
h. Cultural Heritage Resources
The County has numerous ar-
chacological and historical sites from
the Indian, Hi~anic and American
periods of California history. Paleon-
tological sites and important geologi-
cal formations from periods millions
of years before man's first ap-
pearance exist in the County. The
cultural heritage resources are non-
renewable and irreplaceable. Public
awareness of their value should be
encouraged, and their enjoyment
should be fostered whenever possible.
I. Recreational Resources
The County's recreational resources
are varied and extensive. The Na-
tional Forests and Santa Catalina Is-
land are the largest recreational
areas in the county. Large water con- ¼
servation projects such as Whittier
Narrows and Castaic Lake are used Equestrian trails meander throughout Los
for nature study and fishing. State Angeles County offertng an important
Parks and Recreation Areas in the contemporary recreationalversion ~western
Santa Monica Mountains, Antelope tr~tion.
Valley, and Puente Hills provide
thousands of acres for scenic enjoy-
ment and riding and hiking in rela- Del Rey and Avalon Harbor are used
tively undisturbed terrain. The State by boaters. A system of regional
also operates historic parks at El parks has been developed through
Pueblo de Los Angeles and Pacific city and county efforts and it is com-
Palisades (Wrn Rogers). plemented by a local park system
that is designed to meet neighbor-
The shoreline is one of the most in- hood and community outdoor recrea-
tensively used recreational resources tion needs.
in the county. Long Beach Marina,
King Small Craft Harbor, Marina
05-6
PAGE 138 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
j. Geologic and Seismic Hazards k. Flood, Mudfiow and Erosion
Hazards
The land in the county, in a youthfiil
stage of geologic evolution, is Un- Areas exposed to the greatest flood
stable. Many active and potentially hazard are in the fire-flood fringe in
active earthquake faults are found in the foothills of the San Gabriel
this area. Liquefaction, landsliding, Mountains, the Malibu coast, the
shattered ridges, land settlement, and Santa clarita Valley and the An-
tsunamis and seiches are other seis- telope Valley. Areas most subject to
mic-related hazards. Many areas are mudf[ow hazards include the central
subject to local earth movement such Santa Monica Mountains and hilly
as landslides, rockslides and sub- and mountainous areas in the San
sidence. Rocks and soils prone to in- Fernando, East San Gabriel, Santa
stability include alluvium, terrace clarita, and Antelope Valleys.
deposits, shale, metamorphic schist
and siltstone. 1. Wildiand Fire Hazards
The frequency of wildland fires is
primarily determined by the type of
Responsible planning is a critical factor in thwarting the deadly brz~h fires tizat occur due to a
combination of high wine, high temperatures and the abundance of natural fliel.
OS-7
PAGE 139 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
vegetation, climate and weather pat- protection of natural resources, as
terns, and the proximity to human well as management of hazards.
habitation or activities. Arson is also
a frequent cause. The major fire
fliels are chaparral, sage and grasses. 2. Special Management Areas
The risk of wildiand fires is corn- Policy
pounded when isolated development
occurs in and near brush-covered
areas, particularly hillsides. Steep, This map depicts and elaborates
rugged hillsides allow fire to spread upon special natural, scenic or
rapidly. Control efforts are thwarted hazard area designations on the Con-
and fire-fighting costs are increased servation and Open Space policy
in these areas. map. Special criteria lead to both
general and special conditions in the
Land Use Element to prevent proper-
ty and environmental loss or damage.
C. Genei~il Plan Policy
Maps D. Goals and Polides
These policy maps depict regionally
significant open space and special Air Quality
resource or hazard management
areas. They appear at the end of tiiis Goal: To support local sorts to im-
chapter. A frill explanation of map prove air quality.
legends appears on the back of each
map. Policies
1. Actively support strict air
1. Conservation and Open quality regulations for mobile and
Space Policy Map stationary sources, and continued
research to improve air quality.
Promote vanpooling, carpooling,
This map depicts existing and recom- and improved public tran~orta-
mended open space resources of tion.
regional significance and areas
generally recommended for public ac-
quisition. It also depicts areas requir-
ing special management or
OS-8
PAGE 140 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
Energy space into housing, commercial and
industrial developments especially
Goal: To conserve energy resources in urban revitalization areas. Use
and develop alternative energy sources. drought-resistant vegetation.
Policies Ecological Resources
2. Support the conservation of ener- Goal: To preserve and protect prime
gy and encourage the development agricultural lands, forests, fisheries,
and utilization of new energy sour- significant ecological areas and other
ces including geothermal, thermal biotic resources.
waste, solar, wind and ocean-related
sources. Policies
3. Promote the use of solar energy 7. Protect significant agricultural
to the extent possible. resource areas and encourage the ex-
pansion of agricultural activities
Water into underutilized lands such as
utility rights-of-way and flood prone
Goal: To conserve water and protect areas.
water quality.
8. Preserve significant ecological
Policies areas by appropriate measures, m-
cluding preservation, mitigation,
4. Protect ground water recharge and enhancement.
and watershed areas, conserve storm
and reclaimed water, and promote 9. Protect the quality of the coastal
water conservation prograrns. environment. Maximize public ac-
cess to and along the coast and maxi-
5. Encourage the maintenance, mize public recreational A key policy invol-
management and improvement of opportunities in the coastal zone ves cooperative
the quality of imported domestic consistent with sound resource con- management of
water, ground water supplies, servation principles. the significant
natural runoff and ocean water. resources in the
10. Preserve and restore marine extensive National
6. Encourage the maintenance of resources emphasizing the shore and Forests.
landscaped areas and pollution- near shore zone, especially lagoons
tolerant plants in urban areas. In- and salt water marshes.
tegrate landscaping and open
½
OS-9
PAGE 141 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
11. Support an offshore marine 13. Protect watershed, streams,
sanctuary from the Mexico border and riparian vegetation to mini-
to Ventura County, extending fifty mize water pollution, soil erosion
miles seaward. and sedimentation, maintain
natural habitats, and aid in ground
;;~ ~ __ water recharge.
½ , 14. Encourage maintenance of
;~;~- ~;;+ fisheries through improved com-
mercial and sport fishing prac-
* tices, habitat improvement
A ~ programs, and research on fish
propagation.
15. Maintain natural watershed
~ -~ processes by regulating develop-
ment in tributary watersheds.
i
16.
increased
erosion, and siltation of stream-
; ~ -- - beds that would limit the uses of
streams and wateibodies for
Preserving our heritage enhances the quality of the present. recreation and other beneficial
water-related uses.
12. Cooperate with the U.S. Mineral Resources
Forest Service in developing a
comprehensive management Goal: To protect mineral resources.
program for the National Forests
which will maintain high quality 17. Protect and conserve existing
watershed, protect against natural mineral resources, evaluate the ex-
hazards, provide recreational ~P- tent and value of additional
portunities, and protect fish and deposits, and require fliture
wildlife habitats and designated reclamation of depleted sites.
wilderness areas. Encourage
public acquisition of private in- Cultural
holdings in the forests.
Goal: To preserve and protect sites of
historical, archaeological, scenic and
sciennflc value.
Os- 10
PAGE 142 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
Policies Policies
18. Encourage open-space ease- 25. Restrict urban development in
ments and dedications as a means areas subject to seismic and
of meeting scenic, recreational geologic hazards.
and conservation needs.
26. Restrict urban development in
19. Protect the visual quality of flood prone areas, and thus avoid
scenic areas including ridge-lines major new flood control works.
and scenic views from public
roads, trails and key vantage 27. Encourage the multiple use of
points. flood prone areas for recreation,
agriculture, ground water
20. Protect cultural heritage recharge and wildlife habitat.
resources, including historical, ar-
chaeological, paleontological and 28. Manage development in
geological sites, and significant ar- hillside areas to protect their
chitectural structures. natural and scenic character and
to reduce risks from fire, flood,
21. Encourage public use of cul- mudslides, erosion and landslides.
tural heritage sites consistent with
the protection of these resources. 29. Discourage isolated develop-
ment in wildland fire hazard areas
22. Promote public awareness of and develop stricter brush
cultural resources. clearance ordinances to protect ex-
isting structures.
23. Encourage private owners to
protect cultural heritage resources. Recreation
24. Support preservation of Goal: To improve opportunitiesfor a
heritage trees. Encourage tree variety of outdoor recreational ex-
planting programs to enhance the periences.
beauty of urban landscaping.
Policies
Hazards
30. Provide low intensity outdoor
Goal: To reduce the risk to life and recreation in areas of scenic and
propertyfrom seismic occurrences, ecological value compatible with
flooding, erosion, wildland fires and protection of these natural resour-
landslides. ces.
OS-li
PAGE 143 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
31. Develop local paiks in urban
areas as part of urban revitaliza-
tion projects, wherever possible.
32. Encourage improved public
transportation to recreation sites.
33. Develop a system of bikeways,
scenic highways, and riding and
hiking trails; link recreational
facilities where possible.
34. Encourage safe conversion of
sanitary landfills for recreational
use when no longer needed for
waste disposal.
35. Support the provision of ap-
propriate areas for off-road recrea-
tional vehicles, so as to reduce
their impact on environmentally
sensitive areas.
36. Actively participate in the plan-
ning for acquisition and develop-
ment of the Santa Monica
Mountains National Recreation
Area. Strongly encourage Con-
gress to maintain a fimding level
adequate to meet the objectives of
the National Recreation Area
legislation.
37. Support improved public ac-
cess to coastal recreation areas, in-
cluding the Channel Islands,
consistent with protecting marine
and land environments.
OS-12
PAGE 144 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
E. Glossary Habitat
The natural abode or loCality of a plant
of animal.
Archaeology
The science of recovering data about Land Capability
pre-existing or extinct culture and The capacity of the land to sustain
peoples. development taking into account all
natural factors which may constrain
Cultural Heritage Resources development.
All sites, features, burials, examples of
rock art structures, ruins, artifacts, Landslides
remains, chemical traces and other data Downhill movement of masses of earth
pertaii~g to or derived from the ac- material under force of gravity.
tivities and presence of pre-existing
and/or extinct population at a locality, Paleontology
whether above, on or below the surface The study of fossil remains.
of land or water.
Prime Agricultural Land
Easement All land which qualifies for rating as
A method of acquiring partial use Class I or Class II in the Soil Conserva-
rights of land with no transfer of fee tion Service land use capability clas-
title. sification, plus: land which supports at
least one animal unit per acre or which
Environment retums not less that $200 per acre on
The aggregate of all the external condi- an annual basis.
tions and influences affecting the life
and development of an organism. Seiches
The oscrnation of sloshing of water in
Fault a lake, bay, or other enclosed body of
A plane or breakage in rock or soil, water caused by seismic activity or
along which significant offsetting of landsliding.
the two sides of the plane have taken
place. Seismicity
Relates to the general level of
Fault Zone
A numerous interlacing of small faults. earthquake activity in an area.
OS-13
PAGE 145 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
Subsidence
A local mass movement of earth
material in which surface material is
di~~laced vertically downward as an
areal settlement with little or no
horizontal component.
Terrain
The physical features of a piece of land.
Tsunami
A sea wave generated by a submarine
eatthquake, landslide, or volcanic ac-
tivity.
OS-14
PAGE 146 Show Image
Conservation, Open, Space and Recreation
II. Regional Recreation Areas Plan
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 147 Show Image
Conservation, Open,Space and Recreation
II. Regional Recreation Areas Plan
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction...............................................OS-15
B. Background.................................................OS-- 15
C. Goals and Policies.........................................05-15
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN OS-i
PAGE 148 Show Image
Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
A. Introduction C. Goals and Punciples
A regional recreation area is an ex- Recreational Opportunities
tent of land and/or water surface
which, by its unique features and/or Goal: Adequate regional recreation
unusual or extensive development, opportunitiesfor County residents and
offers recreational opportunities that visitors.
attract visitors from beyond the im-
mediate vicinity without regard to Principles
physical, political or community
boundaries. These regional attrac- 1. Promote the acquisition or
tions are generally beyond the scope preservation of areas identified in
of local park programs. the Regional Recreation Areas
Plan.
2. Provide diverse recreational op-
B. Background portunities.
3. Coordinate efforts with other
The focus of the Regional Recrea- jurisdictions in the County to
tion Areas Plan is first on regional determine present and fliture
recreation areas within the urban needs for regional recreation
and urbanizable areas close to the areas and facilities.
concentrations of population, and
second, on rural and open portions 4. Refine and reestablish stand-
of the county. The recreation plan ards in accord with the current un-
identifies and recommends acquisi- derstanding of needs and use of
tion of a wide variety of regional regional recreation areas and
recreation areas. facilities.
5. Provide a wider range of recrea-
tional areas and facilities iden-
tified as having regional
significance.
OS-iS
PAGE 149 Show Image
Noise
Noise
The complete text for the Noise Chapter can be found in the
Background Report.
Coiinty of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 150 Show Image
Noise
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction......................................................N-I
B.Background.........................................................N-i
1. Resolution of Noise Measurement Methods......................N-i
2. Sources of Transportation Noise..............................N-i
3. Effects of Noise.............................................N-i
4. Land Use~ransportation Noise Interrelationship...............N-S
5. Transportation Noise Laws....................................N-5
6. Multiplicity of Governmental Jurisdictions...................N-6
7. Distribution of Noise Mitigation Costs.......................N-6
C. Goals and Policies................................................N-6
D. Glossary..........................................................N-9
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN N-i
PAGE 151 Show Image
Noise
List of Figures
Figure Page
N-i Acoustical Scale.................................................N-2
N-2 Present Noise Emission Levels for Transportation
Vehicles.............................................................N-3
N-3 Typical Arterial Highway Noise Levels (L io).....................N4
N4 Typical Freeway Noise Levels (701A)...............................NA
N-5 Typical Railroad Noise Levels (CNEL ~)...........................N-5
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN N-u
PAGE 152 Show Image
Noise
A. Introduction 1. Resolution of Noise
Measurement Methods
Sound refers to anything that is or may
be heard. Noise is an unpleasant sound. Approximately 60 methods of noise
The sound from an individual source
measurement have been developed to
decreases with increasing distance. relate the various characteristics of
The amount of sound reaching the sound to human perception and reac-
receiver is affected by barriers between tion. The methods need to be corre-
the source and receiver (such as walls, lated to evaluate the overall impact of
landscaping and buildings) , atmos- transportation noise on the community.
pheric conditions (such as wind, Many communities use measurements
temperature and humidity), and the of CNEL (Community Noise
number of sources emitting sound. Equivalent i-evel) as the most ap-
The typical community noise environ- propriate means of measurement.
ment is comprised of a background
noise level and higher noise levels, fre- 2. Sources of Transportation
quently transportation oriented. Back- Noise
ground levels are lower at night, and
most people demand greater quiet at
this time. The problems posed by high Some of the most common sources of
noise levels from individual sources are noise are highways (auto and tmck traf-
more pronounced during these fic), railroads, mass transit (e.g. buses),
nighttime hours. and airports. The typical noise levels
emitted from these sources is shown in
Figures N-i, N-2, N-3, NA, and N-5
B. Background (found on the following pages). ____________
A typical corn-
As industrialization became more 3. Effects of Noise munity noise en-
prevalent in the American economy, ex- vironment is
cessive noise became recognized as a comprised of a
serious problem. Noise can have varied effects on the background noise
human lifestyle including: physiologi- level and higher
As transportation became an increasing cal, psychological, sociological and noise levels,fre-
force, noise problems also increased. economic. quently transporta-
tion oriented.
N-i
PAGE 153 Show Image
Noise
Figure
Acoustical Scale
LEThAL dBA*
-180-
-175-
-170-
-165-
-160-
-155-
-150-
-145-
SofliC Boom -140-
-135-
ThRESH OFPAIN
-130-
Jet Takeoff at 200' -125-
-120-
-1 is- Discotheque
Motorcycle at 20' -110-
-105- Power Mower
COMFORT
PHYSICAL -100-
Freight Train at 50' -95-
Propeller Plane Ry-over at 1,000' -90- Food Blender
45- Electric Mixer
Freeway Traffic at 50' -80- Washing Machine; Garbage Disposal
-75- Office with Tabulating Machines
Averaga Traffic at 100' -70- Vacuum Cleaner; Portable Fan
-65- Electric Typewriter at 10'
-60- Air ConditionIng Unit
-55-
-50- Normal Conversation at 12'
Ught Traffic at 100' -45- Refrigerator
-40-
-~ Ubrary
40-
-25-
-20- Motion Picture Study
-15-
-10- Leaves Rustling
-5-
ThRESHOLD OF HEARING -0-
* The unit of sound is the decibel (dBA). The loudness of sound is typically measured using a
sound meter, the scale of which corresponds to the way the human ear perceives sound. Thus
the sound level for noise evaluations is frequently expressed in dBA.
N-2
PAGE 154 Show Image
Noise
Figure N-2
Present Noise Emission Levels
For Transportation Vehicles
6570 75 80 85 90 95100105
HIGHWAY GENERATORS 50 FEET
Passenger Cars
Sports Cars
Compact and Import Oars
Heavy Trucks
Ught Trucks
Highway Buses
Trash Compactors
Large Motorcycles
Small Motorcycles
RAIL LINES AT 50 FEET
Diesel Locomotives
Freight Cars
RAPID TRANSIT AT 50 FEET AT 20 TO 30 MPH
(Steel wheels on steel rails)
AIRCRAFT AT 1000 FEET (000 approach; --- take oft)
4 Engine Turbofan (B-707, DC-8)
4 Engine widebody Turbofan (B-747)
3 Engine Widebody Turbo fan (DO-b, LiOl 1) 00 -
SingIe~engine Propeller 0
Multi-engine Propeller 00~
Executive Jet co 0
VTOL CRAFT AT 500 FEET
Light Turbine Helicopter (2-7 passenger)
Light Piston Helicopter (2-7 passenger)
Heavy Helicopter (20-50 passenger)
~
(Decibes, dBA)
N-3
PAGE 155 Show Image
Noise
Figure N-3
Typical Arterial Highway Noise Levels (L10)
RIW
40' OR 50's
15 8~BA
8OdBA
150 7~BA
0 285...................7OdBA
H -~ S2~ 6~BA
w
1:000............................6OdBA
1850w::: . 5~BA
C') *3800~~ . 5OdBA
Figure NA
Typical Freeway Noise Levels (701A)
R/W
40' OR
22 85dBA
8OdBA
165 75dBA
0 & 300 7OdBA
Cr -~ 550 65dBA
Ho
w
~o00 6OdBA
55dBA
C,) ~20 5OdBA
N-4
PAGE 156 Show Image
Noise
Figure N-5
Typical Railroad Noise Levels
(CNEL,~)
70 ~NEL
2i~ 65CNEL
-~ 55 ONEL
C)
5OCNEL
E
45CNEL
C')
4. Land Use/Transportation
Noise Interrelationship
Due to a past lack of land use and
transportation planning in some areas,
noise impacts have been most
prevalent near highways, airports, rail
lines and other such types of facilities.
5. Transportation Noise Laws'
Current federal and state laws in many
instances preempt local government A common method ~mitigating transportation noise impacts is to locate
uses nearby that are not noise-sensitive.
from controlllng certain sources by set
ting noise levels and operational proce-
dures for aircraft, motor vehicles, and passed by the local authority agree with
interstate carriers. These legal preemp- the statutes of the higher authority.
tions also require that noise legislation
N-5
PAGE 157 Show Image
Noise
Local government can, wherever it has 7. Distribution of Noise
jurisdictional authority, restrict certain Mitigation Costs
noisy aircraft from using an airport or
reduce speeds and prohibit trucks on
surface streets. The path of noise can Noise mitigation is costly. There are at
also be controlled by construction of least two ways to distribute these costs:
walls, landscaping, buffer zones, or 1) among the general public; and 2)
soundproofing of existing structures. among those who generate the noise.
Future problems can be minimized Assessment of noise abatement costs
through a combination of land use plan- against the producers of the noise is the
fling, building code and zoning restric- most equitable. Equally important is a
tions, and noise ordinances and policies balanced, coordinated approach to the
which dictate and enforce a noise abate- noise problem which wrn flimish the
ment program responsive to local con- most benefits for the least amount of
ditions. money.
6. Multiplicity of Governmental C. Goals and Policies
Jurisdictions
Reduce Transportation Noise
Multiple governmental bodies and mul- Goal: Reduce transportation noise to a
tiple agencies have control over noise level that does not jeopardize health
sources or are implementing diverse
noise programs in the greater Los An- and welfare.
geles County areL Some of these
groups include the County of Los An- Policies
geles and the municipalities within it, 1. Promote the necessary organiza-
the Southern California Association of tion adjusttnents within county
Governments, the South Coast
government to establish a central
Regional Coastal Commission, and the authority which identifies tech-
Southern California Rapid Transit Dis- nological opportunities, conducts
trict. Unfortunately, noise in~~acts are
not limited to municipal boundaries nor studies, assesses effectiveness of
agency territories. Noise originating programs, sets standards, and recom-
within one jurisdiction frequently mends transportation noise mitiga-
penetrates another jurisdiction's boun- tion techniques, programs and
daries. alternatives.
N-6
PAGE 158 Show Image
Noise
2. Establish acceptable noise stand- Minimize Future Transportation
ards consistent with health and Noise
quality of life goals and employ ef-
fective techniques of noise abate- Goal: Minimize noise levels offliture
ment through such means as transportation facilities.
building code, noise, subdivision
and zoning ordinances. Policies
3. Determine and evaluate the 8. Determine and evaluate the fil-
present noise levels associated with ture noise levels associated with all
all major tranPOrtation facilities in major transportation facilities in the
the county. county.
4. Coordinate with and assist the 9. Establish noise criteria in the
various cities in deallng with the specifications for purchase of
problem of noise and provide leader- vehicles, aircraft, and their com ______________-
ship and technical expertise when re- ponents intended for use by the
quested by other jurisdictions. County including all equipment One of the most ef-
needed for maintenance and repair fective reductions
5. Coordinate with federal, state, of such vehicles and aircraft. in noise impacts
and city governments in developing can be achieved
and implementing noise abatement 10. Encourage the federal and state through thejudi-
programs. governments and other agencies to cious use oftech-
work for standardization and nology, planning,
6. Monitor the programs and simplification of the measurement and regulatory
policies of the responsible special methods used in assessing noise im- measures on
districts, regional, state and federal pact. transportation
agencies in order to ensure that they sources.
effectively exercise their mandate to Compatible Land Uses
control the sources of noise for new,
proposed, or existing tran~~rtation Goal: Establish compatible land use
facilities, vehicles or aircraft. adjacent to transportation facilities.
7. Encourage the state Department Policies
of Transportation to conduct an ac-
tive highway noise abatement 11. Reduce the present and future im-
program with scenic/aesthetic con- pact of excessive noise from transporta-
siderations. tion sources through judicious use of
technology, planning and regulatory
measures.
N-7
PAGE 159 Show Image
Noise
Allocate Noise Mitigation Costs Policies
Goal: Allocate noise mitigation costs 16. Encourage cities to adopt
among those who produce the noise. definitive noise ordinances and
policies that are consistent
Policies throughout the county.
12. Seek flinds from the appropriate
levels of government to underwrite
the costs of noise abatement
progranis.
13. Urge continued federal and
State research into the noise
problem and recommend additional
research programs as problems are
identified.
14. Recommend needed legislation
to the State and federal government
which will provide for noise abate-
ment and the distribution of the
costs of noise abatement programs
among the producers of noise.
Public Awareness
Goal: Alert the public regarding the
potential impact of transportation
noise.
Policies
15. Promote increased public aware-
ness concerning the effects of noise.
Existing Quiet Areas
Goal: Protect areas that are presently
quiet from~ture noise impact.
N-8
PAGE 160 Show Image
Noise
D. GlOssary Statistical A-weighted Noise Level
This scheme represents the A-weighted
Background Noise noise level, ~A, which is exceeded a
The total of all noise in a system or percentage of the time over the dura-
situation, independent of the presence tion of the sample noise measurement.
of the desired signal. In acoustical Thus, L99, L90, L50, LlO, Li, denote
measurements, strictly speaking, the the value of the noise level exceeded
term "background noise" means electri- 99,90,50, 10, and 1 percent of the
cal noise in the measurement system. time.
However, in popular usage the term
"background noiset1 is also used with Rapid Transit
the same meaning as "residual noise". A mode of mass public transportation
accomplished by various types of
Community Noise Equivalent Level vehicles i.e. trains or buses. Such a
CNEL is a scale which takes into ac- mode transports patrons more efficient-
count all the A-Weighted acoustic ener- ly and quickly than an independent
gy received at a point, from all noise form of transportation for each cus-
events causing noise levels above some tomer.
prescribed value. Weighting factors
are included which place greater impor-
tance upon noise events occurring
during the evening hours (7:00 p.m. to
10:00 a.m.).
Decibel
The decibel ((`B) is a measure, on a
logarithmic scale, of the magnitude of
a particular quantity (such as sound
pressure, sound power, and intensity)
with respect to a standard reference
value (0.002 microbar for sound pres-
sure and 10-12 watt for sound power).
Noise
Any sound which is undesirable be-
cause it interferes with speech and hear-
ing or is intense enough to damage
hearing or is otherwise annoying.
N-9
PAGE 161 Show Image
Safety Element
Safety Element
Adopted by the
Board of Supervisors
County of Los Angeles
December 6, ~99O
The complete text of this element, including implementation
programs, background infonnation and maps is available
firm the Depamnent of Regional Planning.
PAGE 162 Show Image
Safety Element
Table of Contents
FOREWORD. e * e * * * * . * * . . . * . * . . * . *....**.**.....*...*. ii
SUMMARY OF THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF THE SAFETY
ELEME~~ * . * . . . * *........... . . * . *.....*.*.*.*. 1
~,. Introduction . . . . * * . . . . . . . . * . . e * * . . . e * * . * * 3
B. Background and ............. ..*......e... 4
Seismic Hazards....................................................4
Geologic Hazards...................................................5
HoodandlnundafionHazards...........................................5
Fit~Hazards........................................................5
Hazardous Materials................................................6
Emeigency Response, Pi~pai~dness and Recovery......................6
Research and Safety Infonnation Systems............................6
C.SafetyE1ementGoaIs&Poh~cies e*...e....... 7
Seismic Hazards....................................................7
Geologic Hazards...................................................7
F'oodandlnundationHazards..........................................8
Wildiand and Ulban Fire Hazards....................................8
Hazardous Materials................................................9
Emeigency Response, ~paredness and Recovery .......................9
Research and Safety Infonnation Systems...........................10
I). ~1ossary . . * . . . . * * . . . . . e * * * * . . . . . e e . * `1
SE-i
PAGE 163 Show Image
Safety Element
FOREWORD
The Board of Supervisors adopted the first Safety and Seismic Safety Elements as compo
nents of the Los Angeles County General Plan in 1975. The revised Safety Element,
presented in the following pages, responds to new knowledge and concepts gained from
studies of safety related issues and events; and from experience gained through manage-
ment of public safety since 1975. This revised Element combines the formerly required
Safety and Seismic Elements into one document in accoi~ance with current State law.
SE-u
PAGE 164 Show Image
Safety Element
SUMMARY OF `nIE BASIC PRINCIPI]~~S OF
`I1IESAI'~~TY EI]~~NT
The following principles constitute a public safety and avoid loss of life and
summary of the content of the Safety injury through careflil review of siting,
Element. design and construction.
The Safety Element is basically a long * Hazardous structures (substandard
range emergency response plan. It seeks buildings, freeway overpasses, bridges,
to reduce future losses of life, injuries dams, etc.) have the greatest potential to
and socioeconomic disruption by design cause loss of life, injuries, and socioeco-
of safer environments and facilities; by
avoidance of hazardous sites; by removal nomic disruption and loss. Abatement
or strengthening of unsafe structures; and of hazardous structures through
strengdiening or removal should receive
by promotion of preparedness for the highest priority.
eme~encies.
* The Safety Element addresses earth- * Major emergencies will require all the
quake, landsliding, flood and fire available resources of the various levels
hazards; and potential hazardous materi- of government cooperatively applied.
als incidents related to these hazards. * Public agencies and actions alone
* Implementation of the Safety Element is cannot achieve or pay for a safer
environment The general public,
the responsibility of many County individuals, communities, businesses
agencies including the planning agency. and non~profit or volunteer organiza-
* A basic flinction of the Safety Element is tions must be persuaded to invest in
to mcrease public awareness and support safety improvements and actively
of safety~conscious planning. prepare for emergency events.
* County decision makers can make one of * Safety costs must be allocated fairly. No
their foremost contributions to public group must be unfairly penalizeCL Costs
safety by review of proposed public and incurred are investments which should
private developments under theirjuris- be designed to prevent larger future
diction to ensure that developments are losses. Conversely, defeimi of invest-
sited, designed and built in a manner ments in safety may lead to major future
which will minimize exposure to the losses of life, injuries, heavy costs and
hazards identified above. socioeconomic disruption The issue of
costs should be addressed in a study of
* Review of projects for development of the relative priority and financing of
critical facilities (examples are public actions recommended in the Element
safety facilities, hospitals, child care
facilities and elderly care facilities)
offers major opportunities to improve
SE-i
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Safety Element (ft Page)
Safety Element
(Blank page 2)
PAGE 166 Show Image
Safety Element
* Wildiand and ulban fires; and
* Other safety issues including the
management of hazaidous materials,
potentially hazardous buildings, critical
facilities, eme~ency response resources,
and safety oriented research.
The Safety Element is only one compo~
nent of the General Pia~ Although the
A. Introduction basic objective of the Element is "to
reduce death, injuries, propeity damage,
The Safety Element is a required compo- and economic and social impact from
hazards" and is of paramount concern,
nent of the Los Angeles County General other social, economic, political, and
Plan. Prepared in accordance with Sec- aesthetic factors must be considered and
tions 653O2~) and 8875 of the California balanced with safety needs. The Safety
Government Code, the Element assesses Element, therefore, is designed to be
threats to public health and safety from a consistent with the other elements of the
variety of ~ds and recommends General Plan, including the Housing,
strategies to reduce these threats. Because Economic Development, Land Use,
local juiisdictions have a degree of discre-
tion in tailoring the Safety Element to their Transportation, and Conservation and
particular concerns, the serious threat of Open Space Elements.
earthquakes to Los Angeles County has This document is intended to provide
influenced the emphasis on earthquake- guidance to the public about the policies
induced hazards in this documenL Con- and actions which can produce a safer
sideration of the topics discussed in the environmenL It is specifically designed to
text suggests that many actions that reduce assist public officials in making decisions
the risk from earthquakes also contribute regarding projects, regulations and
to reduction of risks from fire, flooo, and programs which flirther public safety; and
geologic hazards and vice versa. The to assist County agencies in meeting their
following subjects are addressed in the public safety responsibilities. Although
Safety Element: the Element applies primarily and directly
* Seismic hazards: surface rupture, ground to the unincorporated areas of Los Ange-
les County, it may also serve as a useflil
shaking, and ground failure; reference and model for the cities within
* Geologic hazards: slope instability, the County. The threat of natural hazards
landslides, and unstable ground; to Los Angeles County can never be
totally eliminates The implementation of
* Rood and inundation hazards: structural the Safety Element, however, can signifi-
failure of water storage facilities, tsu- cantly reduce the magnitude of impacts
nami, seiche, and rain-induced flooding; from a variety of future disasters.
SE-3
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Safety Element
B. Bae~~oii~d The Element and implementation program
are organized to address major safety
and Issues problems and related issues. These
include hazards associated with seismic
County is the center of the events; geologic instability; fire safety
Los Angeles (both wildland and ulban fires); flooding
lai~est population concentration on the and inundation; hazardous materials,
Pacific Coast. Curi~ntly, more than 8.5 especially those related to the hazards
million residents reside in the County
with population projected to reach neaily identified above; emergency response,
10 million by the year 2010. Large scale preparedness and recovery; and reseai~h
growth will continue to create and safety information systems. The
u'i)an the natural and physical following paragi~phs give a brief intro-
pressure on duction to these subjects. The Safety
environments in the County, as the Element background report, entitled
importance of the region as a key indus- Hazard Reduction in Los Angeles County,
trial,, commercial, and cultural center
continues to expand. Intensification of provides a technical discussion of these
land uses thioughout the urban area, and subjects.
the extension of development into areas Seismic Hazards
with environmental constraints, will
flirther increase the vulnerability of Los Damaging earthquakes are a fact of life in
Angeles County to seismic, geologic, the Los Angeles region. Since 1800,54
flood, and fire hazards. These trends damaging earthquakes have jolted the
emphasize the need to implement prudent region. Within the County itself; there are
land use, hazard abatement and risk over 50 active and potentially active fault
management programs. segments, and an undetermined number of
Los Angeles County utilizes two dimen- buried faults, potentially capable of
sions of risk in applying programs in the prod~icing damaging earthquakes.
Safety Element: unacceptable risk for No area in the County is flee fiom the
those conditions which cannot be tolerated widespread potential for severe ground
and toward which the government actions shaking by the catastrophic "Big One", an
and programs should be focused; and earthquake which could occur on any one
tolerable risk for those perceived threats of several major faults in or near the
that pose some danger, but that are County. Equally severe damage fiom
tolerated until such time as programs and earthquake-induced ground rupture,
resources are available for their abate- ground failure, and landsliding threaten
ment: It is the County's responsibility to more localized areas. In addition, flood-
identify hazardous conditions that expose ing of low-lying coastal areas could result
the public to unacceptable levels of risk fi~)m a tsunami generated by a large
and to cooperate with other levels of offshore earthquake or submarine slide.
government and the public to reduce them
to tolerable levels. Tolerable levels of risk Widespread and localized earthquake-
are achieved through compliance with induced effects place structures or utility
County, State and Federalsafety standards lifelines at risk that, if damaged, could
and policies. result in fires, failure of large dams, or
release of toxic, flammable, or explosive
SE-4
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Safety Element
YYood and Inundafiou
materials. Projected losses of billions of Hazards
dollars and estimated casualties in the tens
of thousands would surpass the effects of flooding within the County can be
any previous natural disaster in the United earthquake-induced or can result fr)[n
States including the Loma Prieta ~ay intense rainfall. Although the likelihood
Area) Earthquake. A catastrophic earth- for the catasti~phic inundation of the low-
quake would severely strain the emer- lying coastal areas of the County by
gency response and recovery capabilities tsunamis is considered relatively low, the
of Federal, State, and local governments; risk of losing the vital commerce associ-
and profoundly impact the economy of the ated with the number one port facility in
State, the nation, and possibly the wofid the United States warrants adequate risk-
for an extended period. Ths Element reduction measures. Similaily, inundation
seeks to significantly reduce the impact caused by a catastrophic dam failure could
from such catastrophic losses, since they devastate large areas of the County and
are cleaily unacceptable. thi~aten many residences and businesses.
Two darn failures and one near failure
Hazards have occurred in the County since 1928.
GeolOgiC Frequently occurring, intense storm events
With more than 50 percent of the County have also caused mudtlow and flood
in hilly or mountainous terrain, and with hazards involving the destruction of
much existing development and new property, mjuries and deaths. It is County
growth being accommodated in these policy to minimize the losses and risks
areas, the County recognizes hillside from major flood-related events.
hazards as a major problem. Mud and
debris flows, active dee~seated land- F~r~e Hazards
slides, hillside erosion and man-induced
This Element addresses the threat from
slope instability comprise the vast major- both wildiand and urban fires. Los
ity of hillside hazards. The causes are
many and encompass predevelopment and Angeles County is susceptible to wildiand
postdevelopment problems; artificially fires because of its hilly terrain, dry
saturated or rainfall-saturated slopes; the weather conditions, and the nature of its
erosion and undercutung of slopes; plant cover. The Forester and Fire Warden
earthquake-induced rockfalls and shallow has designated woodland and brush areas
failures; and natural or artificial compac- with high fire potential as Fire Zone 4 and
tion of unstable ground. While elimina- a variety of regulatory programs and
tion of all losses from geologic hazards is standards are directed toward the abate-
unrealistic, large scale losses cannot be ment of this hazard and reduction of risk
tolerated. to tolerable levels.
Because of the intensity of development,
the numbers of the potentially affected
population, and the difficulties of contain-
ment, the County must devote major
SE-5
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Safety Element
resources to controlling potential fire ~~e~ency Response,
hazards in its urban areas. Fire safety and Preparedness and
suppression are especially critical in Reeoveiy
industrial areas and high-rise (more than The Safety Element is essentially a long-
75 feet in height) buildings. Because
high-rise sttuctures typically occur in range emergency response, prepai~~ess
and recovery plan. It provides a policy
intensely developed setiings and accom- framewoik for the implementation of
modate large numbers of occupants, the short-range emergency preparedness
potential for fires in these stiuctures to plans. These include the Five Year Plan
create major catastrophes is significanL for Earthquake Preparedness and the
Moreover, height limitations of fire County Multihazard Functional Plan.
fighting equipment makes fire suppression More importantly, all of the policies and
in high-rise buildings unusually challeng- recommendations of the Element are
mg. aimed at producing a safe environment
Hazardous Materials and easing the task of disaster response
organizations during emergencies. In
Los Angeles County is especially vulner- short, the Element seeks to strengthen
able to unauthorized releases of hazardous short- and long-term emergency response
materials. The County is one of the and recovery capability.
nation's largest industrial centers and a
major producer of a wide variety of toxic, Researeh and Safety
flammable, and explosive materials. A hifonnation Systems
surprising variety of toxic materials is also
stored and used in many small businesses An important flinction of the Element is to
and households. Earthquakes, fires, and identify safety research needs and oppor-
floods increasingly involve the possibility tunities. An important data base is
of hazardous materials releases or explo- already available within County agencies
sions. A chlorine gas release resulting with immediate applications in safety
from the 1987 Whittier News earth- planning and emergency response opera-
quake emphasized this potentially cata- tions. Better geologic and seismic
strophic problem. information, including information on the
location and occupancy of hazardous
Please note that the Safety Element stnlctures and critical facilities, could lead
addresses only limited aspects of hazard- to measures which would gi~atly reduce
ous waste and materials management, i.e., loss of life, injuries and property damage
those aspects related to seismic events, during emergencies. I[nproved fire and
fires, and floods. Hazaidous materials flood hazard data bases are also a neces-
management is more ftilly addressed in sity. In addition, there is a need to
the County Hazardous Waste Manage- improve hazard prediction and early
ment Plan adopted by the Board of warning capability.
Supervisors in 1989, and in `fltle 2 of the
Los Angeles County Code.
SE-6
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Safety Element
~. Safety Element ~ or replace-
and the
Go a's & Policies retrofiting or abatement of potentially
hazardous buildings, highway structures,
and dams and reservoirs which do not
Seisinie Hazards meet seismic safety standards.
Goal: Mm imize miwy and toss £~f life, 6. Encourage the preservation and sensi-
property damage, and the socia4 cul- tive reuse of hiStoriC buildings, that need
tura4 and economic impacts caused by strengthening for protection from
eanhqucike hazards. seismic hazards, in a manner that does
Policies: not endanger public safety.
7. Strengthen earthquake resistance
1. Encourage the use of nonuibanized standards for nonstructural components,
segments of active fault zones for rural especially in critical facilities.
and open space purposes.
2. Review projects proposing expansion of GeOlOgiC Hazards
existing development and construction Goal: Protect public safety and minim~e
of new development, especially critical the social and economic impactsfrom
facilities, and encourage them to avoid geologic hazards.
localities exposed to high earthquake
hazards through such techniques as Policies:
cluster development and transfer of
development rights. 8. Review proposals and projects propos-
ing new development and expansion of
3. Continue enforcement of stringent site existing development in areas suscep-
investigations (such as seismic, geo~ tible to landsliding, debris flow, and,
logic, hydrologic, and soils investiga- rockfalls, and in areas where collapsible
tions) and implementation of adequate soils are a significant problem; and
hazard mitigation measures for develop- disapprove projects which cannot
ment projects in areas of high earthquake mitigate these hazards to the satisfaction
hazard, especially those involving of responsible agencies.
critical facilities. Do not approve
proposals and projects which cannot 9. Continue to improve and enforce
mitigate safety hazards to the satisfaction stringent slope investigation and design
of responsible agencies. standaids, and to apply innovative
hazard mitigation and maintenance plans
4. Promote the development of seis- for development in hillside areas.
mically resistant major lifelines serving
Los Angeles County and connecting it to 10. Upgrade slope maintenance measures
surrounding regions and the rest of the and improve emergency response capabil-
nation ity in hillside areas.
SE-7
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Safety Element
Flood and Inundation Wildiand and Urban ~e
Hazards Hazards
Goal: MLnLmL~e ti~jUry, loSS of14e, Goal: Reduce threats topublic safety
property dwnage, WLd economic and and protect property from wd~~d and
social disruption caused byflood and urban fire hazards.
inWLdcLdon hazards. Polides:
Policies 15. Maintain and strengthen the review of
11. Continue to review proposals and projects and development proposals; and
projects for expansion of existing upgrade County fire prevention Stan-
development and construction of new dards and mitigation measures in areas
facilities, especially critical facilities, of high wildland (mainly Fire Zone 4)
within areas subject to floods and other and wt,an fire hazard
high-risk inundation areas, and disap- 16. Continue to coordinate fire fighting
prove projects which cannot mitigate the efforts with State, Federal and local
hazards to the satisfaction of responsible agencies in fire hazard areas; and review
agencies. and update mutual and automatic aid
12. Promote the use of flood plain man- agreements between the County and
agement measures in high-risk inunda- other fire protection agencies.
tion areas, and require expansion of 17. Continue efforts to reduce all fire
existing and proposed new develop- hazards, with special emphasis on
ments to be flood-proofed and secured reducing hazards associated with older
to minimize fliture flood losses. buildings, multistory structures, and fire-
13. Encourage improvement of the prone industrial facilities; and maintain
existing flood control system capacity to an adequate fire prevention capability in
ensure that it is capable of protecting all airs.
existing development from rising
amounts of runoff produced by in- 18. Expand and improve vegetation
creased urbanization ~ efforts in wildland fire
14. Upgrade protection of the public from 19. Promote improved watershed manage-
inundation hazards caused by structural ment practices to reduce damaging
failure and/or breaching of water storage runoff and debris movement into urban
tanks, debris basins, or dam and reser- areas.
voir facilities.
SE-8
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Safety Element
Eme~eney Response,
Hazardous Materials Preparedness and
Goal:Reduce threats to the publlc health Recoveiy
and safrty from hazardous rnateri(gs,
especially threats induced by earth- Goal: Strengthen County short4erm
quakes. emergency response and long-term
recoveiy capabUity.
Policies:
Policies:
20. Review proposed development
projects involving the use or storage of 25. Promote greater public awareness and
hazardous materials, and disapprove understanding of safety hazards and
proposals which cannot propefly miti- emergency preparedness and response
gate unacceptable threats to public health procedures.
and safety to the satisfaction of respon- 26. Promote the development of commu-
sible agencies. nitylneighborhood, and wolkplace seff-
21. Promote the safe transportation of help and disaster relief groups to
hazardous materials. improve the effectiveness of local
emergency response, light search and
22. Encourage businesses and organiza- rescue, and emergency medical care.
tions which store and use hazardous
materials to improve management and 27. Strengthen the capability of County
transportation of such materials. agencies to effectively respond to
earthquake and non-earthquake induced
23. Promote efforts to reduce or eliminate eme~encies.
the use of hazaidous materials through
dissemination of information about and 28. Upgrade regional heavy rescue
creation of incentives and disincentives capability including mobilization
for use of safer substitutes. operations and resource management.
24. Encourage improved, timely commu- 29. Encourage critical facilities to main-
nications between businesses and tam and regulaily update emergency
emergency response agencies regarding response plans identi~ng safety
hazardous materials~waste incidents. procedures, disaster control capabilities,
and evacuation procedures such as drills
and exercises.
30. Upgrade interagency and multi-
jurisdictional communications, planning
and decision making to ensure efficient
and integrated emergency response
capability.
31. Promote improved cooperation with
nonprofit and private sector emergency
response organizations.
SE-9
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Safety Element
32. Establish an appropriate o~anition Researeh and Safety
composed of County agencies and
community representatives to develop Infomiafion Systems
adequate reconstruction policies and Goal: Cont~nue to promote research on
pmcedures in advance of a major and `napping of nasal and urban
emergency; and to effectively manage hazards; and Lrnprove safety mfonnadon
rebuilding and recovery operations after Nystemsforp&mning, emergency Te-
a major earthquake or other similar sponse management and hazard miaga-
disaster. tio'L
33. Support Federal and State legislation Policies:
to develop an adequate earthquake
insurance progrrm that includes hazard 36. Support research programs to improve
mitigation incentives. knowledge of seismic, geologic, fire,
flood, and other hazai~s.
34.~Encourage the improvement of hazard
prediction and early warning capability. 37.Encourage research that wrn lead to
the detailed mapping of ground response
35. Strengthen emergency communication (microzonation) of Los Angeles County.
systems and improve cooperation
between the media and emergency 38.Advocate early warning and disaster
response agencies. p~diction research, and support applica-
tion of the research results to emergency
prep~dness operations.
SE- 10
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Safety Element
Counteimeasure Planning - Planning of
D. ~iossaiy
emergency response, preparedness, and
mitigation activities directed against the
This glossary is included for the conve- potential consequences of a disaster.
nience of Safety Element users. Addi- Discretionary Pmiect - Any project that is
tional terms are defined in the glossary considered as discretionary pursuant to
contained in the background report for the Section 15357 of ~tle 14 of the Califor-
Element nia Code of Regulation
Abatement - The reduction or elimination Dynamic Analysis - A complex engineer-
of a hazardous condition, including but ing analysis of the stability of a site or
not limited to, strengthening, occupancy structure that considers the effect of
restrictions, or demolition. motion from any source, such as ma-
Active Fault - A fault that shows evidence chinery or a seismic event, on a mass.
of, or is suspected of, having experi- Earthquake-Hazardous (High Earthquake
enced surface displacement within the Hazard) Area - An area subject to
last 11,000 years. An active fault is potential severe ground shaking, lique-
considered to have the highest potential faction, or fault rupture. This includes
for future surface rupture. active fault zones (see Plate 1) and
Alluvium - Unconsolidated surficial liquefaction (L) areas shown on Plate 4.
sediments of clays, silts, sands, and/or Factor of Safety - The ratio of driving
gravels deposited principally by running force versus resisting force used to
water. describe slope stability.
California Environmental pilality Act Far Field Eailhquake - An earthquake
(CEOA) - A law requiring the consider- with an epicenter approximately 50
ation of environmental issues and kilometers or farther from a measure-
impact analysis prior to project ap- ment site and which commonly has
proval. more significant effects on larger,
Critical Facilities - Structures and facili- multistory buildings.
ties which house essential services, are Fuel Load Management - Reduction of
occupied by large numbers of people, or the volume of combustible material,
(and) which would otherwise pose an usually vegetation
extraordinary hazard to public safety and Ground Failure - Loss of bearing strength
welfare if damaged by an earthquake or or movement of the ground surface from
other disaster. As defined by the Safety ground shaking. Ground failure can be
Element they include lifeline system caused by, but not limited to, differential
facilities (e.g., major utility facilities,
evacuation routes); essential facilities settlement, liquefaction, or slope failure.
(fire and law enforcement); high-risk Hazardous Materials - flammable,
facilities (containing flammable, explo- explosive, radioactive, infectious and
sive, or toxic materials); dependent care toxic materials.
facilities (hospitals, convalescent High-Risk Inundation Areas - Any area
homes); high occupancy buildings determined to be susceptible to risk of
(multistory structures, auditoriums); and flooding from tsunami, inundation due
selected economic facilities (poit(airport to failure of dams and debris basins, or
facilities and major banking facilities). inundation from other sources of large
volumes of water. High-risk dam
inundation areas are areas subject to
SE-li
PAGE 175 Show Image
Safety Element
flooding due to failure of dams or water NEHRP - National Earthquake Hazards
tanks with substandard design Reduction Program.
features. Open Space - An area dedicated to lOW
Landslide Prone Areas - Areas subject to intensity land uses often undeveloped
slope instability identified on landslide with structures.
inventories, available maps, or as Potentially Active Fault - A fault show-
identified during geologic investigation. ing evidence of movement within the
Liquefaction - Loss of soil strength, last 11,000 to 750,000 years.
caused by the temporary ti~nsformation
of a soil (unconsolidated alluvium) from Probabilistic - Analysis that considers the
a wet solid mass to a weaker state that is probability of a particular hazard
occurring at a particular location,
unable to support structures, where the expressed in percent per year.
material behaves similar to a dense
liquid as a consequence of earthquake Project - Development proposals includ-
shaking. ing public works projects; and applica-
________ in months to years tions for development such as zone
Long-Term - Measured changes, variances, conditional use
after a disaster, involving mitigation of permits, tentative parcel maps, tentative
social and economic impacts. tract maps and plan amendments.
Major Utility Facilities - Any major Pseudostatic Analysis - A simplified
facility of a public or municipal utility engineering analysis of the stability of a
that is vital to the continued utility site or structure that translates motion
service to county residents. A pipeline or into a static force in perfoiming
sewer line over 36 inches in diameter stability calculations.
may be considered a "major utility
facility". A public ufility facility will not Scenario - An outline or synopsis of a
be considered a "major utility facility" if hypothesized chain of events.
changes to or control of a project Seisniic~eologic or Hazardous Area
affecting the facility by the County Oveday Zone: A zone used to imple-
would be preempted by the jurisdiction ment cerain measures or regulations to
of the California Public Utilities Com- protect public safety within hazard
mission areas either as defined on a particular
Microzonation - The detailed mapping of hazard plate or a composite of hazard
various seismic hazards for use in urban areas shown on two or more plates
and disaster response planning, includ- referred to in the Technical Appendix
ing the effect of ground motion on man- of the Safety Element
made structures. Short-Term - Measured from the occur-
Mud or Debris How - The rapid down- rence of a disaster to weeks or months
waid movement of predominately later, involving activities ranging from
saturated, unconsolidated, mud or earth, rescue and emergency sheltering to
commonly including boulders and trees. initial reconstruction
Near Field Eailhquake - Used to describe Soft-Story Construction - A structure
the effects of a local earthquake within with at least one story, often the ground
tens of kilometers of the source area. A floor, with significandy less resistance
near field earthquake is characterized by to strong earthquake shaking than other
high frequency ground motion that is floors in the structure.
destructive to above gi~und utilities and
short period structures.
SE-12
PAGE 176 Show Image
Public Facilities
Water and Waste Management
The complete text for the Public Facilities Chapter can be found in the
Background Report.
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 177 Show Image
Public Facilities
Table of Contents
Section Page
A.Introduction...................................................PF-I
B.Background.....................................................PF-1
1. Water Supply and Distribution............................PF-l
2. Flood Control and Aquifer Replenishment..................PFA
3. Sewerage and Water Reclamation Systems...................PF-5
4. Industrial and Solid Waste Disposal......................PF-5
C. General Plan Policy Maps......................................PF'-6
1. Water Service Policy Map.................................PF-8
2. flood Protection Policy Map..............................PF-8
3. Sewerage Service Policy Map..............................PF-8
4. Solid Waste Management Plan Map..........................PF-8
D. Goals and Policies............................................PF-8
E. Glossary.....................................................PF-I1
PF-i
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Public Facilities
List of Tables
Table Page
PF-1 Quantities of Waste Received at Major Class I and
Class II Landfills in Los Angeles County......................PF-7
List of Figures
Figure Page
PF-1 Aqueducts Serving Southern California.........................PF-2
PF-ii
PAGE 179 Show Image
Public Facilities
A. Introduction B. Background
As a result of many years of advance 1. Water Supply and
planning, Los Angeles County is
served by excellent water, sewerage, Distribution
solid waste and flood protection sys-
tems. The Public Facilities Element Most water for the Los Angeles Basin
describes present systems for water is imported. The basin area includes
supply and distribution, flood protec- the coastal plain and the San Gabriel
tion, water conservation, sewerage, and San Fernando Valleys. One-third
water reclamation, and solid-waste dis- of the water used in the Basin comes
posal and sets forth County policy on from local ground water and from
these systems. In addition, this Ele- runoff including water from the An-
ment focuses on the need for resource geles National Forest watershed.
recovery and for the protection and con-
servation of resources.
Population growth in Los Angeles
County is supported by an extensive in-
frastructure of water and waste manage-
ment services. The extension of these
services can contribute to the desired
pattern of urban development. Conver-
sely, where the cost of these services is
too high, urban development can be
deterred. Although the Element should
not be construed as binding on cities,
planning for water and waste manage-
ment should be integrated with and
guided by countywide growth and land
use plans.
Providing water to residents is a science of its own. fl requires aeration,
½ -~ punfication, storage and transport.
PF-1
PAGE 180 Show Image
Public Facilities
Three public agencies import water Resources (DWR). The aqueducts
into Los Angeles County: the Los An- used to import water into the County
geles City Department of Public are shown on Figure PF-1: Aqueducts
Works, the Metropolitan Water District Serving Southern California.
of Southern California (MWD) and the
California State Department of Water
Figure PF-1
Aqueducts Serving Southern California
SACRAMENTO
RIVER
~ OROVILLE
DAM&RES.
FEAThER
7'
- ANQORUThED&ATY/!.
Three importing \\ ~ SACRAMENTO
`~~~PROPOSED
agencies share ;4PERIPHERAL `
responsibility for SAN FRANCISC *~\ 44~
the wholesale dis- OUTS BAYS
tribution of water AQUEDUCT'
with 13 other SDAANML8~JRISES~ AUF61(" * I
public and private AQUEDUCT ~
agencies. Some of
these wholesale
distributors share
pumping rights to
local ground
water with the 228 SANTA ~RBARA LOS ANGELES i
retail water agen-
cies in the County. O~ADO IVER
`.`.`.~ U AQUADUC
Source:
Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
PF-2
PAGE 181 Show Image
Public Facilities
These three importing agencies share The County does, however, experience
responsibility for the wholesale dis- some occasional problems related to
tribution of water with 13 other public water quality and quantity. Occasional
and private water agencies. Some of problems relate to salt water intrusion
the wholesale distributors share pump- and mineral buildup in underground
ing rights to local ground water with storage basins. Irladdition, local
the 228 retail water agencies in the deficiencies in supply and distribution
County. systems have occasionally caused
quality and pressure problems in
MWD has estimated that the water limited areas.
supply for the District will be adequate
for the population anticipated in the Iii addition, some areas experience fire-
year 2000. The MWD, however, has flow pressure deficiencies (especially
indicated that the adequacy of water in areas where systems were con-
supplies for Southern California by the structed prior to 1960), and systems in
year 2000 is clouded by a number of these areas can become overloaded
factors: 1) uncertainties about the when low density land uses are
timing and level of deliveries of water replaced with higher density uses.
from the State Water Project; 2) pos-
sible decrease in allowed water impor- Section 208 of the Federal Water Pollu-
tation by the City of Los Angeles from tion Control Act (Public Law 92-500)
Mono Basin and the Owens Valley 3) provides for comprehensive regional
uncertainty over the amount of water programs that will consider all sources
from the Colorado River; and 4) in- of water pollution. The Southern
creased costs and possible inadequacy California Association of Governments
of energy supplies needed to pump and is the designated 208 regional authority To provide an ade-
transport imported water. Thus, it is for much of Southern California, in- quate supply of
prudent to develop programs to reduce cluding most of Los Angeles County. water, it must be
the County's dependence on imported The California State Water Resources used wisely and
water. Control Board has been designated the protectedfrom pol-
208 regional agency for the rural and lution.
Water must be conserved by con- desert areas of the State including the
sumers to reduce the demand for this Antelope Valley in northern Los An-
vital resource. In addition, the source geles County. The goal of the ~I208Yt
of the local water supply, the water- program is to make all waters in the na-
shed of the National Forests, must be tion safe for fishing and swimining.
protected against pollution. Overall
water quality in the County is high.
PF-3
PAGE 182 Show Image
Public Facilities
2. Flood Control and Aquifer flooding has been almost eliminated in
Replenishment the District by the installation of flood
control channels, storm drains, dams,
debris basins, and pumping plants. The
The Los Angeles Department of Public two main drainage systems, the Los +An
Works includes all of the County ex- geles River and the San Gabriel River-
cept San Clemente and Santa Catalina Rio Hondo systems, are channeled
Islands and a section of the Antelope from the foothills to outlets in the Los
Valley. The Department of Public Angeles and Long Beach harbors.
Works is responsible for the protection Storm water is impounded in flood
of life and property from storm water control basins for later release to
damage and for the conservation of downstream water spreading grounds.
storm waters for subsequent use. More The Department of Public Works is
recently, the protection of water quality also responsible for spreading the water
has been an increasing responsibility. purchased by member agencies of the
MWD for ground water replenishment.
-, The Department of Public Woiks is
. ~ & ~ 4# also largely responsible for protecting
- +- A--- ground water quality and, in coopera-
tion with other County departments, for
the study of flood plain management as
-~ ~- -~ -~ part of the Federal flood Insurance
$ F - Some existing problems that occur
~~------- with flood control include:
The elimination of riparian
-~ habitats and deposit of storm sedi-
ments and the expense and dif-
ficulty of its removal; and
- - - * Sand erosion along the beaches
believed to be partly the result of
- ~- paving natural storm channels and
the constsuction of upstream
Flood control channels are an essential component of the Public Facilities dams, which inhibits the move-
Element. They channel heavy rains away from other tand uses and
provide an escape route in flooding emergencies. ment of sand downstream.
PF-4
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Public Facilities
3. Sewerage and Water commercial reflise, and 40% ofresiden-
Reclamation Systems tial reflise is collected by the many
private hauling contractors in the Coun-
ty. The rest is collected by city depart-
Sewage disposal and waste water ments and waste disposal districts.
reclamation services in Los Angeles Most solid waste is disposed of in
County are provided by 29 sanitation landfills. Reflise comes from three
systems distributed throughout the
County. The City of Los Angeles has
2 sewerage systems. Twenty4our
County sanitation districts are active,
15 of which have combined to form the
Joint Outfall System. Three inde-
pendent water agencies also operate
sewerage systems.
Water reclamation from sewage may m-
dude as many as three areas oftreat-
ment, each of which separate the
sewage into two components: 1) an ef-
fluent of liquid; and 2) sludge or
solids. Recycling sewage is a three-
stage process that includes primary,
secondary and tertiary treatment. Ter-
tiary treatment produces a highly 5
clariiied quality water and usually in-
cludes at least two different filters and
additional chlorination. Sewerage sys-
tems and services are provided to most Industry is an. active part ~the Los Angeles County economic scene.
of the urbanized areas in the County. Establishing Zocationsfor the proper disposal of industrial waste is a
factor ofpublic services.
4. Industrial and Solid Waste primary sources: households (41%),
construction and demolition industries
Disposal (31%), and commercial, industrial and
all other sources (28%). I'll-os An-
Solid waste disposal in Los Angeles geles County, in 1979, there were 20
County involves essentially three opera- major landfill sites and approximately
tions: collection, hauling, and disposal.
Over 90% of industrial refuse, 72% of
PF-5
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Public Facilities
20 minor sites. Many of these sites gineering, flinding and evaluating the
will be Closed by the end of 1980. The impact on the environment.
fill capacity of the remainder will be The California Solid Waste Manage-
severely depleted by the year 2000 ment and Resource Recovery Act of
(Table PF-1, following page). 1972 (SB 5) resulted in the need to
study the County's solid-waste manage-
Due to the shortage of landfill sites and ment program. The Department of
the environmental problems created by Public Works prepared the Los An-
the sites, ways of reducing the volume geles County Solid Waste Management
of waste and alternatives to landfilling Plan (CoSWMP) dated October 1977.
are being found. The economics of Land use suitability and compatibility
waste disposal facility siting, however, with surrounding land uses was a major
should never outweigh public health, consideration in updating this Plan.
safety and welfare.
In adopting the CoSWMP, the Los An-
Some alternatives to landfilling reflise geles County Solid Waste Management
have been considered by the County. Committee was formed and consists of
These alternatives include recycling; representatives from the public, in-
salvaging and segregating materials dustry, and government.
from other refuse at the source; convert-
mg waste to energy; composting;
pyrolosis; and ocean disposal. Two ~ General Plan Policy
resource-recovery facilities have been
proposed for Los Angeles County. The Maps
Due to the County Sanitation Districts have ap-
shortage of plied for grant flinding for a water-wall
landfill sites and incinerator to be constructed in the The Public Facilities maps are located
the environmental vicinity of Long Beach. The other at the end of this chapter. They depict
problems created proposed facility, the Watson Energy policy related to water service, flood
System, will be privately owned. It control, sewerage service and solid
by the sites, ways will be similar in design and operation waste management. A full explanation
of reducing the of map legends appears on the back of
to the Long Beach facility. No dates
volume of waste have been set for the pilot operation of each map.
and alternatives to
landfilling must be either plant.
found. Three alternatives to landifiling, corn-
posting, pyrolosis and ocean disposal
do not seem likely options in the near
fliture due to the time required for en-
PF-6
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Public Facilities
Table PF-1
Quantities of Waste Received at Major Class I and Class II Landfills
in Los Angeles County (1979-1980)
Ouantities Received
(tons/year)1
Solid Waste
Estimated Estimated
Remaining Life
Group 2 Group 3 LiquId Hmrdous Total Capacity In
a~ Wasta Waste Total Waste2 Liquid Waste3 Wasta Millions of Tons Yeari
Palos Verdes Landfill I 1,214,300 123,900 1,338,200 118,300 (99,000) 1,456,500 0 5
Spadra Landfill H 250,800 38,100 294,900 2,800 -- 297,700 4 is~
Mission Canyon Landfill II 1,201,600 363,100 1,564,700 -- -- 1,564,700 18.7 12
Scholl Canyon Landfill II 660,600 58,300 718,900 -- -- 718,900 25 40
Calabasas Landfill I 496,300 54,400 550,700 86,000 (67,000) 636,700 18 304
Puente Hills Landfill H 2,115,300 38,600 2,153,900 73,500 -- 2,227,400 110 404
Toyon Canyon Landfifl H 436,200 259,900 696,100 - -~ 696,100 1 1.5
L~z Canyon Landfill H 345,000 112,300 457,300 - -- 457,300 15 25
Burbank City Landfill H 52,200 3,800 56,000 - -- 56,000 0.56 10
City of Whittier Landfill II 100,00 15,000 115,000 - -- 115,000 5.7 50
North Valley laandfill H 161A00 278,000 439,400 - -- 439,400 40 404
Bradley Avenue Dump H 13,600 157,700 171,300 - - 171,300 7 20
Penrose Pit H 160,400 364,000 524,400 - -- 524,400 0.5 2
Azusa Western H 471,700 58,300 530,000 - -- 530,000 3.8 14
BKK Landfill I 928,300 9,000 937,300 450,500 (275,700) 1,387,800 65 504
Operating Industries Landfill II 522,000 18,000 540,000 171,000 -- 711,000 2.5 4
Ascon II 140,400 5A00 145,800 44,300 -- 190,100 0.2
Haibor Dump II 18,700 17,900 36,600 - -- 36,600 0
Chiquita Canyon II 78,800 -- 78,800 - -- 78,800 `ink. 35
Antelope Valley Public Dump H 48,800 13,400 66,200 - - 66,200 link. 15
Lancaster Dump H 50,600 15,600 66,200 - -- 66,200 1.8 15
Total 9,473,000 2,004,700 11,481,700 946,400 (441,7OO)~ 12,428,100 319.86
1. Tonnage for period 1 July 1979 through 30 June 1980.
2. For the Class I lan~~lls tonnage shown includes a small amount of solid Group 1 waste.
3. Included in "Liquid Waste" quantities.
4. Requires additional land use permits to utilize fi'll capacity.
5. Less than 1 year.
Sources: County Engineer-Facilities; County Sanitation Districts; Report on Determination of Solid Waste Quantities in
Los Angeles County Wastesheds, Prepared for County Engineer-Facilities by Engineers-Science Consultants, October
1980.
PF-7
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Public Facilities
3. Sewerage Service Policy Map
This policy map displays existing and
proposed major trunk sewer lines and
water reclamation plants. Areas need-
5 ing additional service are also
described.
Providing adequate water pressure is necessary to serve fire fighting 4. Solid Waste Management
equipment. Plan Map
1.Water Service Policy Map This policy map enumerates existing
transfer stations and landfill facilities
Thisrnap presents existing water impor- as well as a proposed resource recovery
facility. Potential landfill sites derived
tation lines, major transmission lines, from the 1977 Solid Waste Manage-
water treatment plants, lakes and reser-
voirs, water spreading grounds and salt ment Plan are also indicated.
water intrusion barrier projects. It also
indicates areas needing additional
water service and proposed new lines. D. Goals and Policies
2. Flood Protection Policy Map Mitigation
Goal: Mitigation of hazards and
This map depicts the flood protection elimination of adverse impacts in
system related to the Los Angeles
River and San Gabriel River - Rio providing water and waste services.
Hondo drainage basins. Policies
It indicates both natural drainage cour- 1. Program water and sewer ser-
ses and improved channels and vices extensions to be consistent
facilities as well as areas recommended with General Plan policies and to
for channel improvements and mitigate situations that pose im-
floodplain management mediate health and safety hazards.
PF-8
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Public Facilities
2. Prohibit the degradation of air 7. Require an independent geologic
quality by requiring the mitigation study for all Class I disposal applica-
of emissions from waste disposal tions.
sites.
8. Design water and waste manage-
Protection ment systems which enhance the ap-
pearance of the neighborhoods in
Goal: To protect the health and safety which they are located and mini-
and welffire of all residents in provid- mize negative environmental im-
mg water and waste services. pacts.
Policies Improvements to the Systems ________________
3. Encourage private firms and Goal: Improved systems of resource Improved ~cien-
public agencies providing water and use, recovery and reuse. cy in water usage
waste management services to can be achieved
cooperate with all levels of govern- Policies by multiple use,
ment in establishing, enacting and such as with water
enforcing consistent standards and 9. Improve coordination among and waste manage-
criteria. operating agencies of all water and mentfacilities.
waste management systems.
4. Cooperate with federal, State,
regional, and local agencies to 10. Encourage compatible, multiple
develop and implement new tech- use of water and waste management
nologies in water and waste manage- facilities, including public recrea-
ment while continuing existing tional utilization, where consistent
methods until new alternatives are with their original purpose and the
economically feasible. maintenance of water quality.
5. Explore inirnediately user 11. Increase storage of potable
cooperation with federal and state water in underground aquifers
agencies for use of public lands for through greater use of spreading
waste disposal. grounds.
6. Ensure the location, acquisition, 12. Promote solid waste technol-
and development of landfill sites ogy, including source reduction, to
which meet the environmental and reduce dependence on sanitary
siting criteria for hazardous liquid landfills.
and solid wastes.
PF-9
PAGE 188 Show Image
Public Facilities
13. Promote the advancement of 20. Continue to recover off-site
technology to reduce the volume of costs for capital improvements
liquid waste. necessitated by development, includ-
ing required additional plant
14. Facilitate the recycling of capacity, as well as other water and
wastes such as metal, glass, paper waste management facilities.
and textiles.
Quality Water
15. Use technology for the conver-
sion of waste to energy. Goal: A high quality of coastal, surface
and ground waters.
16. Encourage development and ap-
plication of water conservation, in- Policies
cluding recovery and reuse of storm
and waste water. 21. Protect public health and
prevent pollution of ground water
Efficiency through the use of whatever alterna-
tive is necessary.
Goal: Efficient water and waste
management services. 22. Provide protection for ground
water recharge areas to ensure water
Policies quality and quantity.
17. Increase service efficiencies, 23. Avoid or mitigate threats to pol-
both within individual agencies and lution of the ocean, drainage ways,
among agencies performing similar lakes and ground water reserves.
flinctions, while striving to reduce
costs. 24. Design flood control facilities
to minimize alteration of natural
18. Protect the capacity of class I stream channels.
landfills by restricting their accep-
tance of nonhazardous wastes. 25. Design and construct new water
and waste management facilities to
19. Accelerate the implementation maintain or protect existing riparian
of advanced technological methods habitats.
for waste di~,o sal, and expand the
countywide capacity of sanitary
landfills only as justified by need.
PF-1O
PAGE 189 Show Image
Public Facilities
E. Glossaiy Effluent
A discharge of pollutants into the en-
vironment, partially or completely
Aquifer treated or in its natural state, and
An underground bed of stratum of generally used in regard to discharges
earth, gravel or porous stone that con- into waters.
tains water.
Groundwater
Aquifer Recharge The supply of freshwater under the
Return of water to the aquifer or earth's surface in an aquifer of soil
natural underground storage. which forms a natural reservoir for
man's use.
Channelization
The straightening and deepening of Groundwater Recharge
streams to permit water to move faster, See aquifer recharge.
to reduce flooding or to drain marshy
acreage for farming. Channelization Inert
reduces the organic waste assimilation Non-water soluble, non-decomposable
capacity of the stream and may disturb solids having no active chemical
fish breeding and destroy the stream's properties.
natural beauty.
Infrastructure
Class I Landfill The underlying installation and
Landfills which wrn accept non- facilities on which the continuance and
radioactive, hazardous solid and liquid growth of a community depends, in-
waste. cluding water, sewerage and other
utilities.
Class II Landfills
Landfills which will accept solid and MGD
non-hazardous liquid waste. Millions of gallons per day. Mgd is
commonly used to express rate of flow.
Class III Landfills
Landfills which will accept inert Outfall
materials only. The mouth of sewer, drain or conduit
where an effluent is discharged into the
Debris Basins receiving waters.
Dam areas used to filter debris from
flood waters before water continues
downstream
PF-11
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Public Facilities
Potable Water Riparian Habitat
Water suitable for drinking or cooking The natural location of animals or
purposes from both health and aes- plants on or near the banks of lakes,
thetic considerations. rivers and streams.
Primary Treatment Runoff
The first stage in waste water treatment The portion of rainfall, melted snow or
in which substantially all floating or set- irrigation water that flows across
tleable solids are mechanically ground surface and eventually is
removed by screening and sedimenta- returned to streams. Runoff can pick
tion. up pollutants from the air of the land
and carry them to the receiving waters.
Recharge
To restore. Sanitation
The control of all the factors in man's
Reclamation physical environment that exercise or
See waste water renovation. can exercise a deleterious effect of his
physical development, health and sur-
Recycling vival.
The process by which waste materials
are transformed into new products in Sanitary Landfill
such a manner that the original A site for solid waste disposal using
products may lose their identity. sanitary landfilling.
Refuse Reclamation Sanitary Landfilling
The process of converting solid waste An engineered method of solid waste
to saleable products. For example, the disposal on land in a manner that
composting of organic solid waste protects the environment; waste is
yields a saleable soil conditioner. spread in thin layers, compacted to the
smallest practical volume and covered
Replenishment with soil at the end of each working
To refill, i.e., place, water in the day.
aquifer by any means.
Secondary Treatment
Resource Recovery Waste water treatment beyond the
The process of obtaining materials or primaiy stage in which bacteria con-
energy particularly from solid waste. sumes the organic parts of the wastes.
This biochemical action is ac-
complished by use of trickling filters of
the activated sludge process. Effective
PF-12
PAGE 191 Show Image
Public Facilities
secondary treatment removes virtually suspended in the sedimentation tanks
all floating and settleable solids and ~ and must be disposed of by filtration,
proximately 90 percent of both BOD's incineration or by transport to water or
and suspended solids. Customarily, dis- land disposal sites.
infection by cMorination is the final
stage of the secondary treatment Sludge Disposal
process. Organic solids removed from waste
water which must be subsequently
Sewage treated and disposed of as a solid waste.
The total of organic waste and waste
water generated by residential and corn- Solid Waste
mercial establishments. Any garbage, reflise, sludge from a
waste treatment plant, water supply
Sewage Treatment treatment plant, or air pollution control
See primary treatment and secondary facility, or other discarded material in-
treatment. cluding solid, liquid, semisolid, or con-
tained gaseous material resulting from
Sewer industrial, commercial, mining, agricul-
~ Any pipe or conduit used to collect and tural operations, and community ac-
carry away sewage or storm water tivities.
runoff from the generating source to
treatment plants or receiving streams. Solid Waste Disposal
A sewer that conveys household and The ultimate disposition of refuse that
commercial sewage is called a sanitary cannot be salvaged or recycled.
sewer. If it tran~)orts runoff fmm rain
or snow, it is called a storm sewer; in Solid Waste Management
Southern California it is called a storm The purposeflil, systematic control of
drain. the generation, storage, collection,
tran~)0rt, separation, processing, recy-
Sewerage cling, recovery and disposal of solid
The entire system of sewage collection, wasted.
treatment and disposal. Also applies to
all effluent cairied by sewers whether it Spreading Grounds
is sanitary sewage, industrial wastes or Surface ground areas used for holding
storm water runoff. water to allow its percolation to the
aquifer.
Sludge
The solid matter removed from sewage Tertiary Treatment
during waste water treatment that set- Waste water treatment beyond the
tles to the bottom, floats or becomes secondary or biological stage that in-
PF-13
PAGE 192 Show Image
Public Facilities
cludes removal of nutrients such as Waste Water
phosphorous and nitrogen, and a high Water carrying wastes from homes,
percentage of suspended solids. Ter- business and industries that is a mix-
tiary treatment, also known as ad- ture of water and dissolved or
vanced waste treatment, produces a suspended solids.
high quality effluent.
Waste Water Renovation Or
Transfer Stations Reclamation
Sites where waste is transferred from The stabilization and removal of fme
collection trucks to larger vehicles for suspended solids--BOD and COD-
ultimate disposal. from waste water for possible reuse.
Transmission Lines Water Importation Facilities
Pipelines used for moving large All canals, pipelines, pumping stations,
volumes of water within the service dams, and treatment plants used to
ares bring water into an area.
Waste Water Importation Lines
Also see solid waste. (1) Bulky waste: Major pipelines and canals to bring
items whose large size precludes or water into an area. Examples include
complicates their handling by normal the State Water Project, Metropolitan
collection, processing or disposal Water District, Colorado Aqueduct,
methods. (2) Construction and demoli- and the City of Los Angeles Owens
tion waste: building materials and rub- Valley System.
ble resulting from construction,
remodeling, repair and demolition
operations. (3) Hazardous waste: was-
tes that require special handling to
avoid illness or injury to persons or
damage to property. (4) Special waste:
those wastes that require extraordinary
management. (5) Wood pulp waste:
wood or paper fiber residue resulting
from a manufacturing process. (6)
Yard waste: plant clippings, priming
and other discarded material from
yards and gardens. Also known as
yard rubbish.
PF-14
PAGE 193 Show Image
Economic Development
Economic Development
The complete text for the Economic Development Chapter can be
found in the Background Report. This Chapter was adopted on
November 25, 1980. The last text amendment was adopted on
December 29, 1987.
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN
PAGE 194 Show Image
Economic Development
Table of Contents
Section Page
A. Introduction................................................ED-i
B. Background..................................................ED-i
C. General Plan Policy Maps....................................ED-3
D. Goals and Policies..........................................ED-3
County of Los Angeles GENERAL PLAN ED-i
PAGE 195 Show Image
Economic Development
t3i,~
~ Introduction
The purpose of the Economic Develop-
ment Element of the General Plan is to
examine current conditions prevailing
in the Los Angeles County economy,
ident~ problem areas and set forth
recommended policies and programs to
improve employment and income op-
portunities for County residents. Inpar-
ticular, the Element addresses two
major concerns: a) providing the labor
force with needed job skills; and b) es-
tablishing the proper preconditions for
maintaining and attracting new job op- Economic vitality provides jobs and aliows expansion of business and
portttmties. industrial uses.
Many changes have taken place in the
County's economy. For instance, B. Background
tremendous growth has occured in
some industries (high technology, "11975, the unemployment rate in Los
aerospace, services) while stagnation Angeles County was almost 10% with
has occurred in others (steel, autos). In more than 320,000 workers out of
addition, immigrants have arrived here work. By 1985, that rate had dropped
in large numbers increasing foreign in- to 7.0%. Unemployment among
vestment and international trade. minorities and young adults, however,
continued to remain much higher.
Los Angeles County has also attained a
new status as the major center of corn- The continued increase of women enter-
merce, finance and trade within the ing the labor force has had a profound
Pacific Rim. impact on the national and local job
market. "11970, the labor force par-
The County's business image has ticipation rate of women in the County
prospered by eliminating unfavorable was 45.6% and was expected to rise to
taxes, streamlining regulations, and in- 51.3% by the year 2000; instead, it had
itiating closer woiking relationships already exceeded that level by 1984.
with the private sector.
ED-i
PAGE 196 Show Image
Economic Development
ofethnicorracialminorities. By 1980,
more than 54% of the people in the
County were members of such groups.
The County's industrial mix underwent
significant changes during the 1975-
l98Speriod. Manufacturingcontinued
to grow, though its share of total
~ employment declined, while the ser-
vice industries suipassed manufactur-
ing as the major supplier of jobs.
+ Between 1975 and 1985, the service
sector created over 330,000 new jobs.
If Los Angeles County were a, separate Counli)?, its gross domestic
product would be exceeded by on~~ 15 nations. The Los Angeles County economy has
The phenomenal growth of immigrants reached a new level of prominence as
has tremendously affected public ser- an international center for trade,
vices and the job market. `[11970, fmance, and business services. `[1
only 32% of the population consisted 1985, there were 75 foreign banks and
over 2A00 foreign companies repre-
sented in Los Angeles County with
more than 600 firms from 3apan alone.
Other factors in the County's economy
relate to housing and infrastructure
costs. Among major metropolitan
areas, Los Angeles County housing
prices were among the highest in the
U.S. In general, the average single-
family house in Los Angeles County
was priced 53% higher than its counter-
~+½~ partintherestoftheU.S. andits
mortgage payments absorbed 54% of
4+ the median income in 1985. The
County's infrastructure entered a phase
where major costly repairs, improve-
ments and expansions will be a must.
Each home requires water, sewer, heating and electricity. The cost ~ Tourism is another important factor in
maintairn'ng existing Systems and providing new water and sewer sevices the local economy. `[11984,43.2 mil-
is on the rise. lion people visited the County, a 31%
ED-2
PAGE 197 Show Image
Economic Development
increase from 1976. U.S. residents
spendmoreoftheirtouristdollarsin
California than in any other state, and
Los Angeles County receives more ½
than 30% of tourist expenditures in
California
International trade has shown sig-
nificant growth and vitality in Los An-
geles County. In 1982, for the first
time in history, the predominance of
U.S. trade activity took place across the
Pacific coast rather than across the At-
lantic coast. Los Angeles is the fastest
growing Customs District in the U.S.,
with the value of imports and exports
growing by more than 500% in the last
decade.
Diverse cultures not only rich~ enhance the urban fabric ~the County
but provide tourist opportunities.
C. General Plan Policy D. Goals and Policies
Map
The Economic Development Policy Determining Factors
map complements other policy maps Goal: To accurately determine major
by depicting the general location of
major areas of commercial and office forces--both positive and negative--
job centers; industrial expansionlinfill; which currently impact the County
economic revitalizationi intensifica- economy.
tion; and major transportation facilities Jobs
crucial to the economic base. A flill ex-
planation of the map legend appears on Goal: Create jobs and increase in-
the back of the map. It is located at the
end of this chapter. comesfor County residents.
ED-3
PAGE 198 Show Image
Economic Development
Policies Policies
1. Maintain and update accurate 4. Encourage local school boards to
labor force and employment data, in- emphasize in their curricula
cluding wage rates, ethnic, sex and proficiency in the bask skills (read-
age breakdown, and occupational ing, writing and arithmetic), to take
and skill needs and use such data to into account the multi-cultural back-
strengthen the County's economic grounds of their pupils and, to
development and job training prepare the County's youth for the
programs. demanding and highly specialized
job market of the fliture.
Access to Opportunities
5. Target job training programs
Goal: County residents have access to toward groups and geographic areas
existing opportunities for the improve- most impacted by long4erin, struc-
ment of their economic well-being. tural unemployment--particularly
minority groups and youth.
Policies
Business Incentives and Support
2. Support efforts to improve and en-
force immigration laws. Goal: Create an environment con-
ducive to economic growth by provid-
3. Work with both the public and mg the necessary incentives and
private sectors and Boards ofEduca- suppQrt to businesses and by eliminat-
tion throughout the County to ex- mg cumbersome and unnecessary
amine the effectiveness of programs regulations.
The County seeks designed to teach English to non-
to provide the English speaking adults and Policies
necessary incen- children and correct program
tives and supports deficiencies where they exist. 6. Promote Los Angeles County as
to business by an ideal location for high technol-
eliminating cum- Job Skills ogy industries.
bersome and un-
necessary Goal: Properly prepare the County's 7. Encourage employers to provide
regulations. labor force by helping them acquire close or on-site child care facilities
skills so that they may fill the jobs of for their employees through incen-
the~ture. tive programs. Encourage local
cities to amend their zoning or-
dinance, if necessary, to allow
employers located in industrial
ED-4
PAGE 199 Show Image
Economic Development
zones to establish such facilities for encourage the motion picture,
their employees. television, and other entertainment-
related industries to remain in Los
8. Continue to operate and enhance Angeles.
existing programs designed to assist
in the formation and growth of 14. Ptomote Los Angeles County na-
small businesses. Examples of tionally and internationally as an
such prograrns include low-interest ideal location for business and
loans, management assistance, and recreational activities.
establishment of "incubator centers."
15. Support efforts to ensure suffi-
9. Work with appropriate agencies cient customs personnel to serve the
to develop a comprehensive pack- growing tourism and international
age of incentives which would trade needs of the Los Angeles area.
stimulate growth and job creation in
the County's enterprise zone. 16. Strengthen contacts and coopera-
tion with private sector organiza-
10. Support creation of a Federal tions including the Los Angeles
enterprise zone program with suffi- Area chamber of Commerce and
cient Federal incentives to make local business groups within the
such zones more attractive to busi- various County communities.
nesses.
17. Strengthen the County's legisla-
11. Support State, local and private tive advocacy fimetion in Sacramen-
sector visitor industry organizations to and Washington D.C. so that it _______________
on their promotional campaigns to may take forceflil positions on legis- Pollcies are
encourage and strengthen the visitor lative proposals which affect its directed at promot-
industry. economy, its interests and--most par- mg the County na-
ticularly--its economic development tionally and
12. Support projects which promote programs. internationally as
Los Angeles County as a year-round an ideal location
tourist attraction and encourage Land Resources for business and
local visitor organizations to ac- recreational ac-
quaint visitors with less publicized Goal: Preserve land and infrastructure tivities.
interest spots and underutilized needed to support economic growth.
recreational and cultural points.
Policies
13. Support legislative proposals
and other actions which would 18. Continue to emphasize the need
for public transit, an improved bus
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Economic Development
system, and an expanded light rail Managing Resources
network.
Goal: Improve the coordination of
19. Promote greater use of incen- economic activities in order to con-
tives to encourage van pooling and serve limited resources and maximize
car pooling. their impact.
20. Work with RTD and other major Policies
mass transit providers to establish a
simple system of employee incen- 23. Woik toward providing suffi-
tives designed to alleviate parking cient resources for the maintenance
requirements and traffic congestion and expansion of our existing in-
in high density office and commer- frastructure facilities.
cial centers.
24. Continue to seek improved solid
21. Promote the intensive use of waste di~)0 sal techniques which
new and recycled industrial and would alleviate the problems of land
commercial land reserves and shortage and environmental pollu-
protect such reserves from being tion generated through the con-
diverted to other uses. tinued use of landfills.
Revitalization and Rehabilitation 25. Vigorously support measures
that will provide an adequate supply
Goal: Prevent the wastefiel under of high quality water for Southern
utilization of physical resources by CaliforniL
revitalizing and rehabilitating
deteriorating industrial, commercial Economi~nvironmental Balance
and residenttal areas.
Goal: Maintain a healthy balance be-
Policies tween economic growth and environ-
mental quality.
22. Support efforts to improve hous-
ing availability at reasonable costs Policies
including rehabilitation of existing
housing units as a cost-effective al- 26. Identiiy ~cific labor intensive
temative to building new, more ex- growth industries in all sectors of
pensive units. the economy which are environmen-
tally acceptable to our area and use
existing as well as new programs to
attract and retain such industries.
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Economic Development
27. Continue to revise and stream-
line the zoning ordinance emphasiz-
ing flexibility in the types of uses
allowed in the commercial and in-
dustrial zones and encourage greater
use of perfomiance standards as a
more effective approach to regulat-
ing land development.
28. Promote the safe disposal ofhaz-
ardous wastes through on-site
pretreatment, establishment of trans-
fer stations, creation of toxic waste
depositories for treated material and
use of educational programs on the
handllng and hazards of certain new
chemicals including dangerous
household items.
29. Support a more realistic alterna-
tive to the "reasonable efforts1'
program currently being advocated
by the Environmental Protection
Agency EPA).
30. Strengthen econornic develop-
ment program coordination with
local cities and federal and State
economic development agencies.
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LOS ANGELES COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF REGIONAL PLANNING
GENERAL PLAN PROGRAM
The attached material contains notes and explanations relating to
the maps of the General Plan. Please retain and distribute with
those maps.
PAGE 203 Show Image
aeneral development ps--' -
The General Plan distinguishes between 4. Urban Expansion
urban and non-urban areas principally to Areas where suitable non-urban
identify those areas where it is believed land may be converted to urban
urban services can be provided in a uses as demand warrants. They
reasonably cost-effective manner. Con- were defined by use of the fol-
sequent ly, the map categories are divided lowing criteria: areas committed
into "Urban Areas" and "Non-Urban for urban development and plan-
Areas" as follows: ned for urban use in the near
A. URBAN AREAS future, including areas shown on
city and areawide/community
Areas which have, or are planned to plans; areas with existing or
have, a full rapge of urban land uses programmed services, or in close
and public services. Typically, these proximity to existing urban areas
areas have residential densities and service systems; and unin-
greater than one dwelling unit per corporated land suitable for
acre. These areas are subdivided into urban use (i.e. without major
the following categories: hazards or significant natural
resources(. This designation,
1. Revitajization however, does not automatically
Areas where existing urban uses constitute an entitlement. New
are being rehabilitated and/or development should occur in a
recycled or where such action is logical, orderly manner and
desirable to restore and protect should pay for the marginal
the area's physical, economic and public costs (economic, social
social health. The criteria for and environmental) that it
defining revitalizat