Building in the City of Arcadia
The City of Arcadia relies on a comprehensive General Plan to guide long-term growth and development. This plan reflects the community’s vision and provides a framework for land use decisions, addressing a wide range of development-related concerns for the next 25 years and beyond.
The Development Code establishes regulations for the use, development, and subdivision of property, as well as the permitting process. It ensures that land use aligns with the General Plan while promoting orderly growth, protecting public health and safety, preserving the City’s unique character and diversity, and supporting the economic vitality of neighborhoods.
Residential ZoningArcadia’s residential zones are designed to provide diverse housing options while maintaining livability, open space, and architectural harmony. Key zones include:
1. R-M (Residential Mountainous Zone): Estate-type lots for detached single-family homes in hillside and valley areas, along with compatible ancillary uses.
2. R-0 (Very Low-Density Residential Zone): Large-lot detached single-family homes with appropriate residential uses.
3. R-1 (Low-Density Residential Zone): Detached single-family homes with compatible ancillary uses.
4. R-2 (Medium-Density Residential Zone): A mix of housing types including single-unit, duplexes, and multi-unit dwellings.
5. R-3 (High-Density Residential Zone): Medium- to high-density housing such as townhomes, condominiums, and apartments.
6. R-3-R (Restricted High-Density Residential Zone): Similar to R-3 but with a one-story height limit.
Commercial and Industrial ZoningCommercial and industrial zones support economic stability and job growth while ensuring new developments are contextually appropriate and minimize community impacts. Notable zones include:
1. C-O (Professional Office Zone): Administrative, business, medical, governmental, and professional offices.
2. C-G (General Commercial Zone): Businesses providing goods, services, offices, restaurants, and similar uses.
3. C-R (Regional Commercial Zone): Regional retail, entertainment, dining, and commercial services within regional shopping centers.
4. M-1 (Industrial Zone): Light manufacturing, assembly, storage, and delivery uses.
The zoning map is available through the link provided.
Design Guidelines
The City Council has updated design guidelines for Single-Family, Multi-Family, Commercial/Mixed-Use, Industrial, and Signage developments. These updates aim to provide clear guidance for property owners, developers, designers, staff, HOAs, the Planning Commission, and the Council to maintain high architectural standards. The guidelines focus on site design, architectural consistency, and design review criteria, including updated HOA design standards for the five recognized HOAs in the City. The goal is to foster enduringly attractive architecture that enhances Arcadia’s reputation, community pride, and overall quality of life.
The Planning Division guides the City’s growth and development by:
1. Providing information and advice on zoning, land use, and development regulations, assisting property owners, architects, and developers.
2. Enforcing state and municipal planning and development laws.
3. Supporting design efforts of Fire, Police, and Library departments.
4. Collaborating with the City Council, Planning Commission, and public to establish long-term goals, policies, and objectives for Arcadia’s growth.
The Building Services Division oversees all aspects of construction, renovation, and demolition in the City, ensuring compliance with local and state laws. Key responsibilities include:
1. Reviewing and approving construction plans for most project types.
2. Conducting inspections at critical stages to ensure safety, quality, and code compliance.
3. Protecting public safety, property, and welfare through enforcement of building standards.
The Public Works Services Department maintains and improves City-owned facilities, infrastructure, and equipment, managing key projects under the City’s Capital Improvement Program. Divisions include:
1. Engineering: Oversees road and sidewalk repairs, building maintenance, park improvements, water and sewer upgrades, traffic signal installation, and other infrastructure projects.
2. Environmental Services: Promotes sustainable practices, ensures compliance with federal and state environmental laws, and manages stormwater and industrial waste programs to protect water quality.
3. Street Maintenance: Handles street sweeping (weekly), curb painting, and tree pruning to ensure clean and safe streets. Street Sweeping Maps are available in the Knowledge Center.
These efforts preserve Arcadia’s safe, healthy, and environmentally conscious community.
Arcadia is located in Los Angeles County, approximately 13 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Valley, at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The city has a population of over 55,300 and offers recreational amenities such as Arcadia County Park, the Los Angeles County Arboretum, and Santa Anita Park.
Contact InformationArcadia Community Center
240 West Huntington, Arcadia, CA 91066
Phone: (626) 574-5400
