As the nation’s second-largest city, Los Angeles is constantly evolving. To meet the changing needs of its nearly four million residents across 470 square miles, the City enlists the help of urban planners to develop land use policies and programs that foster community, accommodate population growth, provide opportunities for housing, advancing equitable and sustainable development among other considerations.

Los Angeles City Planning oversees the preparation of long-range documents that guide development decisions. In addition, the Department manages citywide zoning updates that aim to ensure that there are sufficient sites for housing, jobs, and other amenities across neighborhoods. City Planning is also responsible for the case intake and review of discretionary project applications, as well as Los Angeles’ historic preservation efforts.