Monrovia : Density Limit Approved

The City Council has approved a new medium-density requirement that will apply to new construction in portions of the southwest area of the city. In July, the city enacted a building moratorium that covers 75% of multifamily property, mostly in the central part of the city.

City officials wanted to study the problems caused by apartment units being built in areas zoned for medium density but consisting primarily of single-family homes. Under the old standards, one housing unit could be built per 2,500 square feet. The new regulation puts that limit at 4,000 square feet. Problems had occurred when three or four units were built on a lot suitable for two, creating an apartment look in an area of mostly single-family homes, said Don Hopper, community development director.