This new appeal document provides the “smoking gun” since it shows how the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) is currently being challenged for erroneously fast-tracking the project by issuing demolition permits before the (Planning) zoning has made a determination on the Public Benefit entitlement,
Here are the high-impact facts extracted from the LADBS appeal: Intent to Revoke issued by City of LA on 1/30/2026 for the two demolition permits.
New Fact: The Illegal Demolition “Head Start”
The Violation: LADBS has issued permits to demolish existing structures on the site (Permit Nos. 25019-20000-03803 & 03806) before the City has even determined if the project is legal.
Why it matters: This is called “segmentation/piece-mealing.” The City is trying to let the developer start destroying the site piece-by-piece to bypass environmental reviews (CEQA).
The Legal Stand: We have formally appealed these permits, demanding an immediate stay on all work until the City Planning Department proves this isn’t a back-room deal.
New Fact: The Housing Crisis Act
Violation: The Deception: The developer labeled the buildings slated for demolition as “offices” to get a quick permit.
The Truth: City records (ZIMAS and Certificates of Occupancy) suggest these buildings were residential units.
The Legal Hit: Under the Housing Crisis Act, you cannot simply tear down housing to build a commercial cemetery without a massive regulatory hurdle and tenant protections. LADBS ignored this, failing to consult the Housing Department (LAHD).
New Fact: The “Funeral Venue” vs. “Mortuary” Bait-and-Switch
The Code Violation: The developer is trying to use a “Public Benefit” loophole that only applies to cemeteries and ancillary mortuaries.
The Reality: The project includes a large, standalone Funeral Venue/Parlor.The Law: Under LAMC § 12.03, a funeral parlor is a distinct commercial use that is strictly prohibited in A1 and RA residential zones. It requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and cannot be approved “by-right.