Why Affordable Land Use Consulting Matters in Los Angeles

Building or changing a property in LA is not easy. The city has many rules about what you can and can’t do with your land. Some areas are zoned only for homes, others for shops, and some for mixed-use projects. On top of that, there are environmental rules, community plans, and permit requirements that can slow things down.

That’s where land use consulting comes in. A good consultant saves you time and money by helping you:

• Understand the rules for your property

• Find the best way to move forward with your idea

• Avoid problems that cause delays or rejections

At JDJ, we believe this help shouldn’t be expensive. That’s why we focus on affordable land use consulting that fits your project and your budget.

Common Problems People Face in LA Land Development

By helping you avoid these issues early, we help your project move forward faster—and more affordably.

What You Need to Know About Land Use Rules in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, not every property can be used for every type of project. The city divides land into “zones,” like residential (R1), commercial (C2), or mixed-use. Some areas have even more rules, like Specific Plans or Community Plans, which add extra limits.

If you don’t understand these rules, you could waste time designing something that won’t get approved.

Key Land Use Terms You Should Know

At JDJ Consulting Group, we study all these layers before your project begins. That way, you know exactly what’s possible and what steps to take.

Why Hiring a Land Use Consultant Can Save You Money

Some people think hiring a consultant is too expensive. But the truth is—not hiring one can cost even more.

Without the right help, you might:

• Submit the wrong plans

• Miss out on fast-track programs

• Run into neighborhood pushback

• Get stuck in red tape and delays

How JDJ Makes a Difference

We make sure your project follows all the right steps from the start. Here’s how we help:

• We read the zoning and city rules so you don’t waste time on the wrong design.

• We guide you through city departments like Planning or Building and Safety.

• We check if your project qualifies for faster permits, like by-right or TOC.

• We help you use affordable housing bonuses to build more for less.

With JDJ, you don’t have to guess. You get expert help at a fair price—and a much smoother process.

What JDJ Consulting Group Offers: Affordable Land Use Services That Get Results

At JDJ Consulting Group, we don’t just give advice—we guide your entire project, from the early research phase to the final permit. And we do it with one goal in mind: helping you save time and money.

Whether you’re building a small duplex, a new apartment building, or a mixed-use project, we offer support that’s both expert and affordable.

Our Most Popular Land Use Consulting Services

We work with developers of all sizes—whether you’re new to building or managing large portfolios.

How LA’s New Housing Laws Can Help You Build Smarter

Los Angeles is making changes to support more housing, especially affordable units. New laws at the state and local level offer faster approvals, bigger projects, and fewer roadblocks—but only if you know how to use them.

We help you take full advantage of these opportunities.

Recent Housing Laws That May Benefit Your Project

• AB 2011 – Allows by-right approvals for affordable housing on commercial corridors.

• SB 423 – Extends fast-track approvals for qualifying infill projects.

• TOC (Transit-Oriented Communities) – Gives you more units and height if you’re near a major transit stop.

• SB 35 – Streamlines approval for housing that meets affordability and zoning standards.

• Updated Density Bonus Law – Adds flexibility for developers who include affordable units.

These programs can let you skip public hearings, build more units, or avoid CEQA reviews—but only if your project is designed the right way from the start.

That’s why our team does the homework upfront: checking which laws apply, which benefits you can use, and how to design for compliance.

A Step-by-Step Look at How JDJ Works With You

We know that land use planning can feel overwhelming. That’s why we keep our process simple, clear, and built around your goals.

Here’s what it looks like to work with JDJ Consulting Group from start to finish:

1st Step: Free Initial Call

We start with a quick, no-pressure call to learn about your property and what you hope to build. We’ll ask questions, answer yours, and give you a realistic idea of what’s possible.

Call us at (818) 233-0750 or schedule a strategy meeting at Google Meet with our representative to discuss your project. 

2nd Step: Site Feasibility and Research

Next, we run a full check on your site’s zoning, overlays, and planning rules. We look for any red flags, and we also find chances to save time or add value.

3rd Step: Project Strategy and Timeline

Once we understand your site, we’ll map out the best path forward. This includes which permits you need, what steps to follow, and how long each part will take.

4th Step: Entitlement and Permitting Support

We help prepare and submit your applications, respond to city comments, and attend meetings if needed. We’ll guide you every step of the way.

5th Step: Ongoing Support

Even after your project is approved, we stay involved. We’ll assist with follow-ups, revisions, or any extra city requests so your build goes smoothly.

Solving Local Challenges in Los Angeles Land Use Projects

Every city has its unique hurdles—and Los Angeles is no exception. Whether it’s strict rules about wildfire zones, community concerns, or slow permit reviews, these roadblocks can delay your project or raise your costs.

At JDJ Consulting Group, we help you plan around these issues before they become a problem.

Building in Wildfire Zones and High-Risk Areas

In many parts of LA, especially hillside or canyon neighborhoods, rebuilding after a wildfire isn’t simple. Special reviews are often required, and building codes are stricter.

We help you:

• Understand if your site is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone

• Prepare documents the city may need for fire safety compliance

• Connect with licensed professionals for fire-rated design and inspections

By planning ahead, we help keep your rebuild or new construction moving forward—even in high-risk areas.

Dealing With Community Pushback and Public Hearings

Sometimes, local residents push back against new construction. This is especially common with larger housing projects, mixed-use buildings, or developments near single-family homes.

Here’s how we support you:

• We review neighborhood plans and expectations before filing

• We help adjust your design to better fit community guidelines

• If needed, we attend public meetings and hearings with you or on your behalf

We understand how to balance your goals with what the city and local groups want. That often means fewer delays and more support for your project.

JDJ’s Promise: Affordable, Expert Land Use Consulting You Can Count On

At JDJ Consulting Group, we believe land use consulting doesn’t have to be complicated—or overpriced. Whether you’re a homeowner, a small business owner, or a seasoned developer, you deserve expert guidance at a fair cost.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Upfront pricing with no surprise fees

• Clear, honest advice from experienced professionals

• Deep knowledge of LA rules, zoning, and permitting

• Creative solutions that fit your goals and budget

We’re proud to help clients across Los Angeles unlock the full potential of their land—whether it’s for a small ADU, a mid-sized apartment building, or a new community development.