Missing Middle housing development in LA is more likely if the City Council enacts changes to our municipal code. LA’s Planning Department code change approvals are on the fast track! LA Planning is aiming for City Council approval by the end of 2026. You can submit comments before the end of Sept, 2026 here.
Below is a library of quick-reference links regarding LA’s proposed Missing Middle housing policy.
LA Code Missing Middle Amendments For Public Comment
Amendments that make Small Scale Multi-Unit Homes Possible
Updated ADU Ordinance (Draft 1)
Changes enabled:
- Updated code implements SB 1033, which allowed the sale of ADUs as individual condo units.
- Updated code implements elements of SB 9 & SB450, which allow for Duplexes (two unit developments) and the ability to split (subdivide) urban lots (parcels)
Amendments that Implement Small Lot Subdivision and “Starter” Homes Program
Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance (Draft 1)
Starter Home Ordinance (Draft 1)
Changes enabled:
- Brings LA code into alignment with SB 684 &SB 1123, streamlining the permitting of projects with up to 10 for-sale homes.
- Sets objective design standards and establishes local controals that remain consistent with state law.
Amendments that Implement Objective Design Standards
Small Lot Map Standards (Draft 1)
Updated Design Standards regarding:
- Common Access: Driveway
- Common Access: Pedestrian Pathway
- Utility Easement
- Guest Parking
- Compact Parking Stalls (new)
- Alley Access (new)
- Electrical, Mechanical, Wall- and Ground-Mounted Equipment (new)
Small Lot Design Standards (Developer Guide Doc)
Missing Middle Background Materials
Missing Middle Interactive Story Map
Low-Rise Design Lab Consultation on LA Planning Missing Middle Strategy
Homeowner’s Guide to Missing Middle Housing
Financial Feasibility Eval – Low-Rise Housing Development in LA
Low-Rise Housing Massing Study (Examples of lot types and what’s possible under proposed ordinances)
