Back in 2008, the City of Los Angeles passed the Baseline Mansionization Ordinance, essentially setting building limits for single family residences, including limits to the allowable square footage in proportion to the lot size, as well as limits to the height of the structure.
The ordinance, and the issue it attempts to affect, have been clouded in controversy for years. You've likely even seen one or two of the anti-mansionization signs posted in your neighbor's yards. It's an absolute must-read document if you have plans to build or renovate, but it's important to understand even if you don't.
Read the 35-page document in its entirely by clicking the button below.
Or, check out a summary of the ordinance put together by the City of Los Angeles Department of City Planning.