Land Use Consulting

We provide expert advice on the best uses of a property to maximize its potential and value. Our team analyzes the site characteristics, local regulations, market trends, and community needs to guide clients through the development process efficiently and effectively.

Entitlement Approvals:

We navigate the complex process of obtaining necessary government permissions for property development projects. Our services include preparing and submitting required documentation, representing clients in public hearings, and negotiating with municipal bodies to secure land use entitlements.

Zoning Analysis:

Our in-depth zoning analysis identifies the permissible uses of a property, considering local zoning laws and regulations. We help clients understand the implications of zoning restrictions on their property and explore opportunities for rezoning or obtaining variances where necessary.

TOC (Transit Oriented Communities):

Specializing in TOC incentives, we assist developers in maximizing the buildable square footage by leveraging proximity to transit hubs. Our services include navigating TOC guidelines, ensuring compliance, and optimizing the development's benefits such as increased density and reduced parking requirements.

Density Bonuses:

We guide clients through the process of securing density bonuses, allowing for the development of additional units beyond the base zoning limits. Our expertise includes negotiating with local authorities, ensuring compliance with affordable housing requirements, and maximizing the development potential.

Affordable Housing (ED1):

Our services in affordable housing include navigating the complexities of the ED1 program, ensuring clients meet the requirements for building affordable units, and leveraging the program’s incentives for increased project feasibility.

SLO (Small Lot Ordinance):

We specialize in the Small Lot Ordinance, assisting clients in subdividing larger lots into smaller, separately titled properties. Our comprehensive service includes site analysis, project design guidance, and navigating the approval process.

Subdivisions:

Our team expertly manages the subdivision process, from the initial planning and design to the final map recording. We handle all aspects, including site analysis, community consultations, and compliance with local regulations, to ensure a successful subdivision approval.

Zone Changes:

We provide strategic advice and representation for clients seeking zone changes for their properties. This includes analyzing the potential for a zone change, preparing and submitting the application, and advocating for approval through the public hearing process.

Our Commitments

Expert Guidance: We offer expert advice and guidance through every phase of the land use and permitting process, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and maximizing project potential.
Efficient Permitting: We streamline the permitting process, leveraging our relationships with local agencies to expedite approvals and reduce project delays.
Thorough Analysis: Our team conducts comprehensive analyses of zoning laws, land use regulations, and environmental constraints to provide accurate and actionable insights.
Tailored Solutions: We develop customized strategies to address the unique challenges of each project, ensuring that our solutions are practical and effective.
Transparent Communication: We maintain open and transparent communication with our clients, keeping them informed of progress and any potential issues throughout the project lifecycle.

Community Engagement: We actively engage with community stakeholders to address concerns and gain support for development projects, fostering positive relationships and smooth project implementation.
Sustainability Focus: We prioritize sustainable development practices, ensuring that projects meet environmental standards and contribute positively to the community.
Continuous Improvement: We are committed to continuous improvement, staying updated on industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices to provide the highest level of service.

Client Testimonials

Meet Our Team

Jake Heller - Managing Partner

Jake is a graduate of Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business with a double major in Finance and Real Estate. His foundation in real estate was built at Heller Properties, contributing significantly to the family business through key development projects, including a 130 unit development in Henderson Nevada and a 40 unit development in Beverly Hills. Jake’s expertise was further refined at Marcus & Millichap in brokerage, enriching his market insight. At JDJ, he has successfully overseen the execution of several major projects and managed the entitlements of over 4,000 units in Los Angeles, showcasing his capability in both development and regulatory navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • 1. Why You Need a Land Use Consultant?

    A land use consultant is crucial for navigating the complexities of real estate development. They bring expertise in local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring your project complies with all legal requirements. By expediting the permitting and approval process, they save you time and reduce delays. Consultants help avoid costly mistakes through early issue identification and conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to determine project viability. They also manage risks associated with development and handle public relations and community outreach to gain support for your project.

  • 2. What is Land Use Planning in Real Estate?

    Land use planning in real estate involves the strategic evaluation and management of land resources to optimize their use and ensure sustainable development. It includes assessing the physical, environmental, and economic attributes of the land, determining appropriate zoning classifications, enforcing regulations and policies that align with community goals, coordinating infrastructure development, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations to minimize ecological impact.

  • 3. What is the Best Approach to Securing Necessary Permits and Approvals for My Development Project in LA?

    Securing permits and approvals in Los Angeles requires early planning, engaging land use consultants, scheduling pre-application meetings with relevant agencies, preparing detailed documentation, conducting community outreach, and staying informed about local regulations and policies. This strategic approach helps navigate the complex regulatory landscape and facilitates a smoother permitting process.

  • 4. How Do I Navigate Los Angeles Complex Zoning Laws to Ensure My Project Complies with Regulations?

    Navigating Los Angeles' complex zoning laws involves thorough research of the city's zoning code and land use policies, working with a land use consultant, conducting a zoning analysis, exploring variances or conditional use permits if needed, staying updated on zoning amendments, and maintaining open communication with the Los Angeles Department of City Planning. This ensures your project complies with all regulations and aligns with permissible uses.

  • 5. How Can I Determine the Feasibility of My Project in LA, Considering Factors Like Land Use, Zoning, and Environmental Constraints?

    Determining the feasibility of your project involves conducting a detailed site analysis, evaluating zoning regulations, identifying environmental constraints, assessing market demand, preparing a financial model, and consulting with land use experts. This comprehensive approach helps you make informed decisions and increases the likelihood of a successful development project in Los Angeles.

  • 6. What Are Entitlements?

    Entitlements are the legal rights and approvals required to develop a property for a specific use. This process involves obtaining the necessary permissions from local government agencies and often includes zoning variances, conditional use permits, environmental impact assessments, and other regulatory approvals. Entitlements are crucial because they ensure that a development project complies with local land use regulations and policies, allowing the developer to proceed with construction and operation. Successfully navigating the entitlement process can significantly impact the feasibility, timeline, and cost of a development project.