The Los Angeles City Council has approved the Citywide Housing Incentive Program, also called CHIP. The program aims to increase housing construction across Los Angeles.

The city wants more homes near transit stations, schools, jobs, and shopping areas. CHIP gives developers rewards for adding affordable housing units to their projects.

Instead of changing zoning rules everywhere, the city created a system with incentives. Developers who follow the program rules can receive:

• More building height

• Higher housing density

• Reduced parking requirements

• Faster approvals

The plan focuses on housing growth in key urban areas.

More Demand for Podium-Style Buildings

CHIP will likely increase the number of podium-style apartment buildings in Los Angeles.

These buildings often include parking or retail space on the ground floor with apartments above. This design helps developers use limited land more efficiently.

Podium construction is common in dense cities because it supports mixed-use development.

Engineers Will Play a Bigger Role

The new program also creates more work for civil engineers and structural design teams.

Every project must meet local safety and building standards. Developers will need strong planning before construction begins.

Engineering teams may help with:

• Structural planning

• Drainage systems

• Utility coordination

• Parking layouts

• Code compliance

Early planning can reduce delays and lower project costs.