On March 9, 2021, the County Board of Supervisors adopted the Alternative Financial Services Ordinance. The ordinance is effective April 8, 2021 and applies in the unincorporated communities of LA County.
New Regulations
Existing and new alternative financial service (AFS) uses, such as deferred deposit transaction lenders, payday lenders, check cashers, and motor vehicle (auto) title lenders, have to comply with LA County’s Zoning Code. Existing AFS uses that were established on or before April 8, 2021 are required to comply with the new standards starting April 9, 2026.
AFS uses require a permit as follows:
| Zone | Permit Required |
|---|---|
| C-3 (General Commercial) | Conditional Use Permit |
| C-M (Commercial-Manufacturing) | Conditional Use Permit |
| M-1 (Light Manufacturing) | Ministerial Site Plan Review |
| M-1.5 (Restricted Heavy Manufacturing) | Ministerial Site Plan Review |
| M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing) | Ministerial Site Plan Review |
New AFS uses are required to comply with operational and development standards, including a minimum buffer of 1,320 feet (0.25 mile) from the property boundary of any other existing AFS uses as well as safety features, signage, and operating hours.
For more information, please contact us at 213-974-6411 or by email at metro@planning.lacounty.gov. You may also visit a local Field Office for in-person assistance.