Los Altos is updating its existing objective design standards, and we would like your input.
Objective design standards are clear, measurable rules that guide the design of new multifamily residential development such as apartments, condos, and townhouses, as well as commercial and mixed-use development. They do not apply to single-family homes. The standards address features such as building form and appearance, window and entry placement, and how a building relates to the street and neighboring properties.
The City adopted its current objective design standards in 2021 and is now updating them based on what has been learned since they took effect. These standards work together with each property's zoning district development standards, which establish requirements such as allowable height, setbacks, lot coverage, and permitted uses. Their purpose is to provide clear, measurable, and consistently applied design rules so applicants know what is required, City staff have an objective basis for reviewing projects, and neighbors can better anticipate how new buildings will look and relate to surrounding properties. By replacing subjective, case-by-case judgments with requirements that can be verified, the standards make the review process more transparent and predictable while promoting thoughtful building design and compatibility with the surrounding area.
The standards cannot prohibit development that state law or zoning allows, and they do not determine how many units may be built. They guide how multifamily residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings are designed and how they relate to the street and surrounding properties.
This survey asks which design outcomes are most important to the community as the City updates the standards. It will take about 10 minutes to complete. You do not need prior knowledge of the standards. Answers are anonymous.
To learn more about the Objective Design Standards Update, please visit
www.losaltosca.gov/ODSUpdate.