Developers continue to build large single-family homes on lots zoned for more density in Los Angeles, despite the city’s efforts to curtail such construction. In 2008, the city enacted rules to crack down on the size of new residences in single-family zones.
After the original ordinance was criticized for being too weak, it was strengthened in 2017. That latest zoning revision limits the square footage of homes to 45% of a lot’s size. Builders continue to find lots large enough to site 5,000 square-foot homes, though. Long-time residents complain that this practice changes the character of neighborhoods and drives up home prices.