Airport
master plan main page Van Nuys Airport pageNovember 1996
Introduction
Purpose and Use of the Plan
Objectives of the Plan
Policies
Land Use Land use table Land use compatibility table
Housing
Air Quality
Economic Development
Open Space and Conservation
Transportation
Infrastructure and Public Services
Public Safety
Noise
Airport Standards and Criteria
Master Plan Implementation Programs
Land Use
Housing Use
Air Quality
Economic Development
Open Space and Conservation
Transportation
Infrastructure and Public Services
Public Safety
Noise
Aesthetics/Urban Environs
The Van Nuys Airport Master Plan consists of the following text and the accompanying Land Use Map. This Master Plan is an element of the General Plan of the City of Los Angeles. The Master Plan includes the land within the boundaries of the Van Nuys Airport.
The Van Nuys Airport Master Plan consists of a series of goals, objectives, policies, and measures that will guide the long-term development and use of the airport as a general aviation center in Southern California and promote the compatibility of the Van Nuys Airport with the surrounding community. Return to index
The purpose of the Master Plan is to provide a comprehensive long-term plan that encourages the orderly development of on-airport land uses, provides protection of the environment, and encourages land use compatibility between the airport and surrounding development.
The Master Plan is intended to serve as an official guide to the future development of the Van Nuys Airport for use by the City Council, the Mayor, the City Planning Commission, the Board of Airport Commissioners, and other concerned governmental agencies, as well as private organizations and citizens concerned with planning and civic betterment. The Plan will function as a reference to be used in connection with actions taken on various City development matters as required by law.
The Master Plan is intended to promote an arrangement of land uses, circulation, and services which will encourage and contribute to the economic, social and physical health, safety, welfare and convenience of the airport within the larger framework of the City; guide the development and betterment of the airport to meet existing and anticipated needs and conditions; contribute to a healthful and pleasant environment; balance growth and stability; reflect economic potentialities and limitations on land development and other trends; and protect public investment to the extent reasonable and feasible.
This Master Plan proposes approximate locations, configuratioīs, intensities of various land uses, and related transportation and public service infrastructure. Future development may vary slightly from the Master Plan, provided the general category of land use, the land use intensities and the physical relationship among the various land uses are not altered in such a manner as to conflict with the General Plan, Zoning Code or other Council ordinance. Development should be consistent with the intent and purpose of the Master Plan.
The Master Plan map is not an official zone map. While it is a guide, it does not imply any implicit right to a particular zone or to the land uses permitted therein. Changes of zone are considered under a specific procedure established under the Los Angeles Municipal Code, subject to various requirements set forth therein, including consideration of the relation to and affect upon the General Plan. Inasmuch as the Master Plan shows land uses projected as much as 20 years into the future, it designates more land in some areas for different zones and land uses than may be desirable for many years. This Plan will be reviewed and amended periodically to reflect changes in social, economic and aviation conditions and to ensure that land use projections are consistent with the City General Plan and Zoning Code standards.
The Master Plan is intended to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Master Plan guidelines contained in Advisory Circular Number 150/5070-6A (June 1985) and other FAA guidelines that regulate the use of airport land sufficient to comply with forecasted aircraft growth projections. The Master Plan land use designations, intensities of various land uses, and general categories of uses must conform with FAA restrictions contained in the Aircraft Noise and Capacity Act (1990), governing operation of the airport.
The Master Plan must comply with the conditions and restrictions of the 1949 Quitclaim Deed recorded by the City of Los Angeles and the U.S. War Assets Administration pertaining to the long term aeronautical use of the airport. According to the 1949 Quitclaim Deed, land uses that do not permit long term aeronautical use must be determined as acceptable by the United States government.
The land use designations proposed for Van Nuys Airport focus on the relationship between aviation uses and industrial, office and other non-aviation uses that are predicted by federal, state and local agencies to occur during the next 20 years. To ensure that the predicted land use demands for recreational pilots and business pilots can be safely and effectively accommodated, the Master Plan establishes objectives, policies and programs that encourage recreational flight training, recreational flight employment, recreational aircraft use incentives, business and corporate resource incentives and flight accountability. Pilot safety, disclosure and educational programs that are intended to inform the public about aircraft characteristics and to reduce the potential for pilot error, are provided to reduce conflict between the airport and surrounding communities.
The Master Plan contains objectives, policies and programs that focus on maintaining a reasonable balance among jets, helicopters and piston aircraft and promotes recreational flight instruction, pilot training and community services. Return to index
1. To coordinate the orderly development of Van Nuys Airport with that of other parts of the City of Los Angeles.
2. To promote land use patterns on Van Nuys Airport and in the surrounding community that encourage land use consistency and compatibility.
3. To promote the continued use of Van Nuys Airport as a general aviation reliever airport with an integral role in the Southern California air transportation system in conformance with Federal Aviation Administration airport safety and design standards.
4. To promote economic well-being and public convenience by: designating sufficient and appropriate land area to meet future general aviation needs and to designate appropriate areas that can be used for jets, propeller airplanes and helicopters without detriment to adjacent land uses; encouraging long-term aviation and aviation related development that allows the continued use of Van Nuys Airport as a hub of general aviation activities for a 20 year planning period; designating land for industrial and commercial development that can be used without detriment to adjacent uses; and promoting well-designed, conveniently located industrial and commercial facilities with adequately landscaped off-street parking, proper sign controls, ground access and traffic circulation patterns to encourage a proper balance between airport land uses and the neighboring community.
5. To improve the aesthetic quality of Van Nuys Airport by setting forth appropriate building design, tenant sign and landscaping criteria.
6. To establish land use policies based on accepted planning principles and standards that minimize adverse environmental impacts for both aviation and non-aviation developments, located adjacent to and on Van Nuys Airport.
7. To provide a basis for the selection and location of public services and utilities and to coordinate the use of public services with airport development.
8. To provide a circulation system that can adequately accommodate airport traffic and to encourage the expansion and improvement of public transportation facilities and services.
9. To set forth standards and policies that result in aircraft noise reductions.
10. To provide periodic review of the Van Nuys Airport Master Plan to ensure that goals, objectives, policies and measures are being implemented. Return to index
The Master Plan contains policies that are intended to support orderly airport development and land use patterns that support and implement the objectives of the Plan. The policies are subdivided into ten (10) categories. Return to index
The Master Plan land use policies are intended to maintain the public safety, health and welfare of the residential community surrounding Van Nuys Airport and to protect and enhance the quality of aviation development on the airport. Airport land use categories and types of uses are shown on Table 1 of this Master Plan, titled Land Use Compatibility Guidelines. These land use categories are defined to include:
These are the essential aeronautical areas required to allow aircraft ascent and descent, maneuvering and taxiing. These areas are restricted to exclusive use for aircraft operations and prohibit assemblage of people, structures, or aircraft storage. Significant obstructions that include large trees, heavy fences and walls, heavy poles, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and billboard signs are prohibited in runway/taxiway areas.
High safety risk and high noise levels occur in these areas. These areas coincide with the Federal Aviation Administration aircraft movement area designation. Return to index
These areas constitute a safety zone adjacent to the aircraft movement area that protects ascending and descending aircraft from obstruction and allows safe and effective aircraft movement. Approach areas are restricted to recreational, agricultural or unenclosed storage uses that do not contain or create hazards for overflying aircraft. Low profile landscaping, sod, or hardscape surfaces that do not contain multiple- story structures, water features or trees that encourage bird concentrations, are allowed.
These areas are restricted to non-intensive uses that provide a maximum concentration of 10 persons per acre. Significant obstructions that include large trees, heavy fences and walls, heavy poles, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and billboard signs are prohibited in Approach Areas.
The storage, handling or use of petroleum products or explosives is also prohibited in these areas. There is a safety risk in these areas for aircraft below 400 feet above ground level and within 1,000 feet of a runway. Aircraft engine noise occurs within these areas. These areas coincide with the Federal Aviation Administration runway protection zone designation. Return to index
Generally, these are the "aircraft performance" areas that support aircraft operations including hangars, aircraft tie down parking, aircraft ramp and maneuvering area, aircraft maintenance, flight training, fueling, military aviation functions, air tour, air taxi, and other aircraft uses that are classified as primary general aviation employment uses. These areas provide direct access to runway and taxiway systems. Therefore, aviation uses that require airfield access are located on these areas to reduce aircraft delays, aircraft engine air emissions, noise and fuel consumption.
Aircraft maintenance and air taxi firms that directly support other primary aviation uses require direct access to runway and taxiway systems to conduct aircraft repairs, and to tow aircraft to hangars and maintenance areas. Activities in these areas can result in aircraft safety and noise exposure risks to persons on the ground due to the runway/taxiway proximity. Uses such as shopping centers, eating establishments, meeting halls, multi-story office buildings and labor intensive manufacturing uses are prohibited in these areas. Maximum concentrations of people should be no more than 40 to 60 persons per acre. Significant obstructions that include large trees, heavy fences and walls, heavy poles, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and billboard signs are prohibited in these areas. These areas are intended to act as sideline and inner safety zones. Return to index
These areas are intended to allow aircraft support or aircraft dependent uses that generate sufficient revenue and jobs. These areas will permit aircraft engine manufacturing, aircraft engine retrofitting, and aircraft related accounting offices, aircraft cooperative management, aircraft classroom instruction, exhibits, research and development, aircraft parts recycling, wholesale industrial uses that primarily target airport users, and other aviation related uses.
p>Any use that would direct a steady light or flashing light of red, white, green or amber colors associated with airport operations toward an aircraft, or cause sunlight to reflect towards an aircraft, or generate smoke or standing water that attract birds, or that would generate electrical interference are prohibited in these areas. Shopping centers, eating establishments, and multi-story labor intensive office buildings are unacceptable uses in these areas.Significant obstructions that include large trees, heavy fences and walls, heavy poles, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and billboard signs are conditionally permitted based on findings of land use compatibility and safety. A maximum concentration of people of no more than 60 to 100 persons per acre is permitted. These areas are intended to act as outer safety zones. Return to index
Lands designated as Aviation Buffer Area consist of non-aviation airport-independent activities located on sites that do not contain direct airfield access. While most of these areas provide a level of business that is a direct function of general aviation aircraft volume, these uses could function independently in other areas of the City. These land areas are intended to ensure the economic viability of the airport by generating revenue that can be used to make airfield improvements.
Permitted uses include hotels, car rental agencies, restaurants, offices, limited neighborhood retail or grocery stores and industrial uses that derive income from aircraft owners, tenants and visitors but are not essential to maintaining an airport. Aircraft tie down, hangars or other primary aviation uses are prohibited. There is some safety risk in these areas from aircraft flight at an altitude near or below 1,000 feet above ground level and frequent noise intrusion. Significant obstructions that include large trees, heavy fences and walls, heavy poles, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and billboard signs are conditionally permitted in these areas.
Any use that would direct a steady light or flashing light of red, white, green or amber colors associated with airport operations toward an aircraft, or cause sunlight to reflect towards an aircraft, or generate smoke or standing water that attract birds, or that would generate electrical interference are prohibited in these buffer areas. Shopping centers and labor intensive multi-story office buildings are also prohibited in these areas. A maximum allowable density of 80 to 140 persons per acre is permitted. Higher densities are conditionally permitted based on findings of land use compatibility and safety. Return to index
TABLE 1 |
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| LAND USE COMPATIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR VAN NUYS AIRPORT MASTER PLAN AREAS | |||
| Land Use Category | Maximum Population Density | Maximum Coverage By Structure | Land Use Restrictions1 |
| Runway/Taxiway2 Area | 0 | 0 | No significant obstruction3 |
| Approach Area2 | 10 persons/ac. | 0 | No significant obstruction3 No petroleum or explosives No above-grade power lines |
| Aviation Area | Uses in structures 40 person/ac. Uses not in structures: 40-60 persons/ac. |
35% of net area | No residential No hotels, motels No restaurants, bars No schools, hospitals, government services No concert halls, auditoriums No stadiums, arenas No public utility stations, plants No public communications facilities No uses involving , as the primary activity, the manufacture, storage, or distribution of explosives or flammable materials |
| Aviation Related Area | Uses in structures: 60-100 persons/bldg. |
50% of gross area or 65% of net area, whichever is greater | No uses involving , as the primary activity, the manufacture, storage, or distribution of explosives or flammable materials |
| Aviation Buffer Area | Not applicable 80-140 persons/bldg. (See text notation) |
50% of gross area or 65% of net area, whichever is greater | Discourage schools, auditoriums, amphitheaters,
stadiums Discourage uses involving, as the primary activity, the manufacture, storage or distribution of explosives or flammable materials |
| 1. The following uses shall be
prohibited in all airport areas: a. Any use which would direct a steady light or flashing light of red, white, green, or amber colors associated with airport operations toward an aircraft engaged in an initial straight climb following take off or toward an aircraft engaged in a straight final approach toward a landing at an airport, other than an FAA-approved navigational signal light or visual approach slope indicator. b. Any use which would cause sunlight to be reflected towards an aircraft engaged in an initial straight climb following takeoff or towards an aircraft engaged in a straight final approach towards a landing at an airport. c. Any use which would generate smoke or water vapor or which would attract large concentration of birds, or which may otherwise affect safe air navigation within the area. d. Any use which would generate electrical interference that may be detrimental to the operation of aircraft and/or aircraft instrumentation. 2. No structures permitted in Runway/Taxiway Area or Approach Area. 3. Significant obstructions include, but are not limited to, large trees, heavy fences and walls, tall and steep berms and retaining walls, non-frangible street lights and sign standards, billboards. |
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| Source: Los Angeles Department of Airports Facilities Planning Bureau | |||
| RESIDENTIAL | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Single-family detached | No | No | No | No | No |
| Two-family dwelling | No | No | No | No | No |
| Multi-family dwelling (3+ families) | No | No | No | No | No |
| Group quarters & rooming houses | No | No | No | No | No |
| Mobile home parks or courts | No | No | No | No | No |
| MANUFACTURING | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Food & kindred products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Textiles & apparel | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Transportation equipment | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lumber & wood products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Furniture & fixtures | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Paper & allied products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Printing & publishing | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Chemicals & allied products | No | No | No | No | No |
| Asphalt Paving & Miscellaneous Petroleum | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Petroleum refining | No | No | No | No | No |
| Rubber & Plastics | No | No | No | No | No |
| Stone, clay, glass & concrete products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Primary & fabricated metals | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Electrical, and electronic equipment | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Leather products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Industrial, commercial & computer equipment | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Miscellaneous manufacturing | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATION & UTILITIES | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Streets, roads ,& highways | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heavy rail lines: freight & passenger | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Light rail lines: passenger | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Trucking & rail freight terminals | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Warehouse & storage | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger terminals & stations | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Water transportation: freight & passenger | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Parking lots | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Transportation services | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Radio, TV & telephone | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Courier service | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical & natural gas generation & switching | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Natural gas & petroleum pipelines & storage | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Water treatment plants | No | No | No | No | No |
| Sewer treatment plants | No | No | No | No | No |
| Sanitary landfills | No | No | No | No | No |
| Recycling & transfer facilities | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Hazardous material facilities | No | No | No | No | No |
| AERONAUTICAL | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Aircraft fixed base operations | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| a | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Aircraft ground schools | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft government operations | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Aircraft fuel supplies | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft military | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Aircraft taxi/charter | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Aircraft helicopter operations | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Aircraft services | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Aircraft manufacturing | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft maintenance | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft assembly | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft research/development | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Aircraft detailing/cleaning | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircraft corporate offices | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Aircraft museums | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Aircraft sales | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Miscellaneous aircraft operations | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| AGRICULTURE AND MINING | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Row & field crops | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Tree crops | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Intensive livestock | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Nursery products | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Poultry | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Pasture & grazing | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Agricultural services | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Mining & quarrying | No | No | No | No | No |
| Oil & Gas extraction | No | No | No | No | No |
| PUBLIC/ QUASI-PUBLIC SERVICES | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Post office | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Government social services | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Elementary & secondary schools | No | No | No | No | No |
| Colleges & universities | No | No | No | No | No |
| Hospitals | No | No | No | No | No |
| Medical & dental offices | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Museums & art galleries | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Libraries | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Churches | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cemeteries | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Jails & detention centers | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Child care programs (6+ youth) | No | No | No | No | No |
| Nursing care facilities | No | No | No | No | No |
| RECREATION | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Neighborhood parks | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Community-wide & regional parks | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Riding stables | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Golf courses | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Open Space & natural resources | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Natural water areas | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Recreation & amusement centers | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Physical fitness & gyms | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Camps, campgrounds & RV parks | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Dance halls, studios & schools | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Theaters-live performance | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Motion picture theater complex - 3 or more | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Professional sports | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Stadiums and arenas | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Auditoriums, concert halls, amphitheaters | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Fairgrounds and expositions | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Racetracks | No | No | No | No | No |
| Theme Parks | No | No | No | No | No |
| WHOLESALE TRADE | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Paints, varnishes & supplies | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Chemicals & allied products | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Petroleum truck terminal | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Miscellaneous wholesale trade | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lumber, building materials & nurseries | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| RETAIL TRADE | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Department & variety stores (single) | No | No | No | No | No |
| Lumber, building materials & nurseries | No | No | No | No | No |
| Grocery stores & drug stores | No | No | No | No | No |
| Paint, glass, wallpaper & hardware | No | No | No | No | No |
| Auto, truck, boat and RV dealers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Mobile home dealers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Auto & truck service stations | No | No | No | No | No |
| Fuel dealers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Apparel & shoes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Home furnishings | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Eating & drinking | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Miscellaneous retail trade | No | No | No | No | No |
| BUSINESS & PERSONAL SERVICES | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Auto, truck, boat, RV & miscellaneous repair | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Mobile home repair | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Commercial laundries & cleaning | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Coin-operated laundries | No | No | No | No | No |
| Photographers, beauty & barber, shoe repair | No | No | No | No | No |
| Funeral services | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Business services | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Computer programming & data processing | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Travel Agencies | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Legal & engineering | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Banks, credit unions & financial | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Hotels, motels, inns, bed & breakfast | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Business parks & industrial clusters | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Office buildings (offices for rent or lease) | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Business & vocational schools | No | No | No | No | No |
| Construction businesses | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Miscellaneous personal services | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| SHOPPING DISTRICTS | Runway Taxiway Area | Approach Area Aviation | Aviation Area | Aviation Buffer Area | Related Area |
| Neighborhood shopping centers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Community shopping centers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Regional shopping centers | No | No | No | No | No |
| Neighborhood shopping store (single) | No | No | No | No | Yes |
NOTES:
Uses are considered compatible in all airport areas only if they do not result in large
concentrations of people that exceed densities shown on Table 1 for land use area.
No uses in Aviation Related, Aviation Buffer or Approach Areas that would cause
electrical interference that would be detrimental to the operation of aircraft or aircraft
instrumentation.
No high intensity uses or facilities that would include playgrounds, ballfields, picnic
pavilions or other outdoor congregational areas are permitted in Approach Areas.
No bars, restaurants or banquet facilities are permitted in Approach Areas. Ancillary
uses such as pro shops, snack bars and specialty food and beverage services are permitted.
Wholesale trade uses, that primarily serve aviation tenants, may be permitted in the
Aviation Related Area, subject to the issuance of a conditional use permit.
No chapels or funeral homes are permitted in Approach Areas. Water used in Approach Areas may not result in ground fog or attract birds.
No bulk petroleum products or chemical storage areas are permitted in Approach Areas.
No building, structures, above-ground transmission lines, or storage of flammable or
explosive materials above ground are permitted in Approach Areas.Return to index
The Master Plan encourages conformance with federal, state and regional regulations that prohibit or restrict development of residential dwelling units within the airport's 65 Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) contour area. Some of the key policies are:
Establish a Citywide tracking system for identifying proposed housing development in relation to the airport's 65 CNEL contour area;
Revise Community Plans, as necessary, to identify appropriate areas for housing development outside of the airport's 65 CNEL contour area;
Establish a method for notifying all prospective homebuyers located within a 2 mile radius of the airport of the presence of aircraft noise, aircraft operations and industrial uses;
Consider creating airport landing fees to be used to conduct soundproofing and provide other residential acoustical improvements in dwelling units and other noise sensitive uses (i.e., schools, churches, and hospitals) located in the 65 CNEL contour area. Return to index
Air quality goals promote reasonable strategies that result in the gradual reduction of aircraft emissions, mobile and stationary source emissions and airport conformance with federal, state, regional and city air quality regulations. The key policies include the following:
Provide incentives for promoting airport employee transit ridership;
Require installation of energy efficient equipment, mechanical equipment and appliances in airport tenant facilities;
Encourage use of low air pollution emissions vehicles by airport tenants and Department of Airports' maintenance staff; and
Establish land use designations at appropriate airport sites that will minimize aircraft taxi time and reduce air emissions by reducing the distance of travel by aircraft to/from runways.
Encourage compliance with federal, state and regional air quality programs and policies. Return to index
The primary economic development goals are to encourage airport uses that stimulate community economic growth and create a range of jobs necessary to meet future employment demands of persons residing in the surrounding communities. Key policies include the following:
Establish guidelines and procedures for the Van Nuys Airport Association that promote cost effective and efficient use of aircraft;
Provide sufficient land to support aviation activities;
Provide sufficient land to support non-aviation activities that generate revenue for the Department of Airports and provide needed jobs and valuable services to the surrounding communities;
Establish incentives for incubator type industrial development where equipment, machinery and staff costs are minimized by combining office resources by two or more business owners;
Establish a comprehensive program to identify business practices and strategies that support the retention and profitability of existing aviation and non-aviation tenant uses;
Establish a Van Nuys Airport Business Plan that limits the creation and relocation of new airport businesses to those uses that do not unfairly compete, conflict or eliminate existing airport tenant uses;
Promote new development job-training and airport employment for residents in the surrounding communities; and
Promote recycling programs and other cost saving measures among tenants that generate high quantities of solid waste and recyclable products.
The Master Plan focuses on open space conservation and passive landscape areas that minimize the potential for fatal or serious aircraft accidents that involve residents, pedestrians and airport employees on the ground. Key policies include the following:
Maintain airport approach space areas with low scale passive landscaping, recreational, agricultural and scenic open space development;
Establish landscape and structure guidelines in approach areas to prevent bird nesting, roosting and habitatation near aircraft flight corridors; and
Maintain passive open space, recreation or agriculture uses on airport approach areas where injuries could be sustained by persons on the ground due to overflight of ascending or descending aircraft. Return to index
The transportation goals promote vehicle mobility and transit accessibility and availability. Key policies include the following:
Encourage development and implementation of programs such as the FlyAway Bus Service that minimize airport employee, customer and visitor travel time to the Los Angeles International Airport;
Encourage development of transit and other public transportation modes nearby the airport to allow connection to major transportation routes, provide access between modes and promote easy transfer between modes;
Encourage airport tenants and employees to implement innovative transportation services;
Improve the external access system of streets by providing for the expansion of street widths, the installation of automated traffic signals, the installation of traffic signs, the restriping of streets, the installation of bikeways and other transportation measures that improve roadway efficiency;
Develop programs and services that improve safety of on-site aircraft operations;
Develop programs and services that improve safety of on-site ground vehicle operations; and
Encourage pedestrian friendly commercial and industrial uses that attract local residents. Return to index
The Master Plan's infrastructure and public services goals are intended to address the conservation and appropriate use or consumption of water, police services, fire services, libraries, parks, electricity, gas, schools, telecommunications and street lighting and to minimize generation of storm water, sewage and solid waste. Key policies include the following:
Maintain infrastructure and public services on the airport, adequate to accommodate projected 20 year growth and development;
Coordinate with other City departments following emergency disruption of public services;
Implement a utility conservation program that reduces tenant use of utilities;
Establish an airport utility conservation coordinator to promote and monitor tenant compliance with conservation programs;
Coordinate with other government agencies the prosecution of tenants and others that illegally discharge oils, hazardous materials and other hazardous substances and pollutants into storm drains and surface waters;
Promote development of aircraft training programs that encourage flight and ownership use of single engine and multi-engine piston aircraft;
Promote water conservation measures through use of drought tolerant (xeriscape) landscape materials on recreation, storage and agriculture sites;
Encourage tenant solid waste reduction programs; and
Encourage tenant recycling programs. Return to index
The Master Plan focuses on reinforcing the safe use and operation of aircraft and aircraft facilities in close proximity to non-aviation industrial, commercial and residential land uses. Policy objectives focus on minimizing the risks associated with potential aircraft accidents, provide for the safety of people and property on the ground and enhance the quality of the airport environment.
Key policies include the following:
Ensure the safety of the airport by maintaining adequate runway, approach and taxiway lights;
Encourage pilot and aircraft minimum performance standards;
Encourage structural development standards that promote use of building materials, windows and other development features that do not interfere with pilot visibility of runway, approach and taxiway areas;
Encourage land uses that do not direct a steady light or flashing light of red, white, green or amber colors associated with airport operations toward an aircraft, or cause sunlight to reflect towards an aircraft, or generate smoke or standing water that attract birds, or that generate electrical interference;
Protect the quality of surface water from pollution discharges that include chemical and hazardous materials leaks and spills;
Promote efficient and proper use of storm drains by airport operators;
Enforce rules and regulations to ensure safe aircraft fueling operations;
Continue to provide 24 hour airfield security to protect airport and tenant facilities from theft, vandalism or unauthorized entry; and
Establish uniform tenant exterior light, glare and sign guidelines that shield ascending and descending aircraft. Return to index
The Master Plan focuses on the reduction of noise through a series of policy objectives that reflect airport responsibility and sensitivity to surrounding residential land uses. Key policies include the following:
Promote programs and measures that reduce aircraft noise near sensitive residential areas by addressing such factors as the number and type of aircraft and helicopters, the location of aircraft and helicopter facilities on the airport property, hours of operations and flight patterns as permitted by local, state and federal law;
Encourage use of quieter automobiles, machinery and equipment on the airport;
Establish abatement programs to minimize unnecessary outdoor airport noises including construction noise;
Encourage regular monitoring of aircraft operations and implementation of noise abatement programs;
To reduce unnecessary noise, restrict aviation dedicated land uses to those that comply with California Department of Transportation Airport Noise Standards, Title 21, Subchapter 6 of the California Code of Regulations;
Restrict future off-airport land uses located in a California Department of Transportation noise defined Airport Noise Impact Area to those that are identified as compatible;
Promote City Council adoption of a building code ordinance that requires the sound insulation of new noise sensitive building uses located in the California Department of Transportation defined Airport Noise Impact Area. This ordinance should encourage an exterior to interior aircraft noise level of 45dB CNEL in all habitable rooms of noise sensitive structures.
Encourage development of effective noise barriers in airport areas when an external noise problem exists;
Encourage media and public service helicopter operations to be conducted in a manner that minimizes noise; and
Establish criteria for future helicopter operations as permitted by State and Federal Regulations; and
Encourage public service helicopter and jet operators to notify the Department of Airports immediately prior to or shortly thereafter, all nighttime curfew operations that are conducted within a 2 mile radius of the airport. Return to index
The aircraft operations volume was 521,433 in 1995 and is projected to be approximately 427,576 in 2015. The control of noise, air pollution, glare, odor, vibration and other consequences of aircraft and airport operations is a primary focus of the Master Plan. Aircraft and airport development should comply with the following general standards:
The City has adopted as its own standards all provisions included in the California Department of Transportation Airport Noise Standards, Title 21, Subchapter 6 of the California Code of Regulations. The measurement of noise impacts within the 65 CNEL noise exposure area shall be conducted on a quarterly basis and published by the Department of Airports; and
The control of incompatible airport land uses shall be governed by the Van Nuys Airport Master Plan land use categories which are consistent with FAA Master Plan and Airport Design guidelines and are codified herein as an element of the City of Los Angeles General Plan. Return to index
The Van Nuys Airport Master Plan includes a variety of programs recommended by different City departments. These programs consist both of existing City programs and proposed new programs which may be helpful in reducing airport impacts. A preliminary evaluation has been conducted for each program to determine cost, benefit, political and public issues and program duration. Return to index
Conduct a feasibility study for acquisition of the 3.715 acre parcel of land (that portion of Lot 587, Tract No. 1000, as per map recorded in Book 19, pages 1 to 34 inclusive of Maps, in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County) located between the Bullcreek Flood Control Channel and Balboa Place that is owned and operated by the Department of Public Works.
Amend the City's community plans guided by the policies and standards contained in this Master Plan and consistent with the Citywide Framework and community compatibility guidelines.
Amend the City's Municipal Code and land use zones guided by the policies and standards contained in this Master Plan to be applied to specific parcels and locations through the Master Plan as appropriate.
Establish uniform airport design guidelines and standards to improve the quality of airport land use development.
Develop an annual airport use inventory that tracks the increase or decrease among based jets, helicopters, pistons and other aircraft.
Develop a program that encourages research and development of technological innovations that reduce land use impacts caused by aircraft noise, air pollution, glare, odor and vibrations.
Develop guidelines and procedures to control airport uses that attract birds.
Establish a monitoring program to identify non approved contractors/operators that are doing business on airport property without written airport approval.
Adopt a Board of Airport Commissioners Resolution that encourages long-term aviation uses and protects runway/taxiway and approach areas.
Continue to use the former Air National Guard site for the annual Van Nuys Aviation Expo until an alternate airport site can be identified or until there is another demonstrated demand for use of the site.
Continue to work with concerned residents and government agencies to reduce noise, air pollution, glare and vibration from aircraft and airport operations. Return to index
Implement a housing compatibility plan that monitors the location of proposed housing development and redevelopment projects and informs the City Council regarding the location of new housing development within a two mile radius of exterior airport boundaries.
Amend the City's Community Plans, guided by the policies and standards contained in this Master Plan to be consistent with housing and community compatibility guidelines.
Implement a program to provide a one time interior noise level monitoring for residences located in the 65 CNEL.
Evaluate the cost, benefit and feasibility of implementing an airport-wide landing fee for all itinerant aircraft to fund the installation of residential acoustical improvements not covered by FAA Part 150. Return to index
Develop a program that encourages high occupancy vehicle ridership.
Create an airport transportation coordinator function to manage, monitor and promote trip reduction techniques.
Develop a plan to phase out use of older inefficient airport equipment, mechanical equipment and appliances in Department and tenant facilities and that encourages replacement with low air emissions equipment.
Develop an air emissions budget that imposes a total allowance of air emissions, from which fixed portions are allocated among the airport's aircraft operators. Return to index
Implement an economic development business strategy that includes goals and strategies for aviation and non-aviation tenant retention, attraction and expansion on airport property.
Create a Department sponsored program that measures the effectiveness of economic development programs and services being implemented at Van Nuys Airport and that identifies economic development programs and services that will provide necessary resources to make tenant leasehold improvements and public service infrastructure improvements and facilitates tenant access to low-cost capital sources.
Develop economic guidelines and procedures for the Van Nuys Airport Association.
Provide supportive services and resource assistance to recruit new and emerging aviation related enterprises which show strong potential and that will provide new employment opportunities to area residents who are members of target income groups.
Develop an economic development recovery program that will allow airport operators to recover a portion of tenant improvement and investment costs at the end of the lease agreement. Return to index
Develop compatibility guidelines for use of approach areas consistent with the General Plan Element and FAA Design Guidelines.
Develop landscape guidelines that promote use of water conserving, drought tolerant plant species.
Develop a plan to remove aboveground utility poles, large trees, tall berms, nonfrangible street lights and other tall structures that attract birds or interfere with aircraft uses in approach zones.
Develop a Transportation Demand Management and Trip Reduction Program for Department of Airports' Van Nuys Airport Administration staff and other staff.
Develop an aircraft ground vehicles use plan that establishes transportation safety measures that will be adhered to by aviation tenants.
Coordinate with the Department of Transportation to require developer installation of traffic signals and other service upgrades for all new airport development.
Develop airport scenic use standards that encourage pedestrian uses for all airport sites that contain frontage on primary, major, or secondary arterial streets.
Coordinate with airport tenants to promote tenant sponsored transit ridership programs and incentives.
Create an airport transportation coordinator function that will oversee, manage, monitor and promote trip reduction techniques, services and measures for Department staff and airport tenants. Return to index
Develop an airport energy conservation plan that identifies annual electricity and gas consumption amounts of airport uses and recommend measures to reduce excess consumption.
Coordinate with other City departments following emergency disruption of public services.
Develop a water conservation program that requires tenant use of recycled/reclaimed water for maintenance purposes, requires new or revised leasehold installation of ultra-low flow toilet fixtures using no more than 1.6 gallons per flush and other water reduction measures.
Develop a sewage/sanitary conservation program that requires tenant and Department use of biodegradable sludge or byproducts for landscaping purposes.
Develop a storm drain conservation program that identifies proper disposal techniques for fuel, oil, chemicals and other materials and establishes a system for reporting and correcting violations.
Develop an airport tenant recycling program that requires tenant solid waste conservation measures that equal or exceed City of Los Angeles Recycling goals. Return to index
Develop standards for building material, surface and window treatment and development that discourage use of highly reflective building materials, glare emitting glass and windows and solar reflective surfaces.
Develop an airport lighting plan that prohibits or restricts the use of light that directs a steady or flashing red, white, green or amber illumination that resembles airfield runway, taxi and approach lighting.
Develop a public safety plan that prohibits bird attracting uses, smoke or vapor generating uses, and electrical generating uses that interfere with aircraft.
Coordinate with the Los Angeles Fire Department to collect data and information regarding hazardous materials stored, handled and disposed by airport tenants.
Develop a Business Plan in accordance with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law of 1985 for all development sites. Return to index
Develop a comprehensive helicopter noise control plan that identifies FAA recommended helicopter flight routes, identifies business name of airport helicopter tenants, defines hours of operations, types of uses, and establishes measures to reduce helicopter single event noise impacts.
Develop a comprehensive airport noise control plan for pistons, jets, and other fixed wing aircraft that identifies FAA recommended aircraft flight routes, identifies IFR aircraft, aviation tenants, defines hours of operations, types of uses, and establishes measures to reduce aircraft impacts.
Develop a comprehensive airport plan that contains measures, guidelines and policies for use of aviation and non-aviation property. This plan shall include, at a minimum, design standards for exterior doors, insulation of windows and walls for all airport office, industrial, and public use space. Standards could include acoustically rated exterior doors and glazing, sound insulation in exterior walls, adding mass to the exterior walls, sealing seams and joints in exterior walls, and fixed windows designed with double paned or laminated glass. Fixed and double glazed windows being just one component of the sound insulation package, can achieve the following noise level reductions:
| Fixed 1/8 inch single pane | 10 dB reduction |
| Fixed 1/4 inch single pane | 15 dB reduction |
| Fixed 3/8 inch single pane | 20 dB reduction |
| Double glazing 1/8 inch each | 20 dB reduction |
| Double glazing 1/4 inch each | 25 dB reduction |
Require tenant compliance with the Department of Airports document titled "Design Guide for Sound Insulation Projects around LADOA Airports" describing measures needed to achieve the State-required sound attenuation standards.
Purchase and install a "hush-house" on property located in the north approach area as permitted by the FAA.
Develop guidelines that establish hours and occurrences of ground run-up and engine maintenance and the duration of each run-up event, identify aircraft required to muffle engine noise through use of the hush house, and establish permissible noise emission levels and penalties for violation of these guidelines.
Coordinate with aircraft pilots and owners additional self-training regarding the use of aircraft manufacturer's specified noise abatement profile techniques and continue to implement the Fly Neighborly Program.
Develop an airport construction plan that establishes guidelines for on airport construction. This plan will include measures that regulate construction equipment to include the muffling and shielding of intake and exhaust systems, the use of electrical rather than diesel powered construction equipment and pile drilling as opposed to pile-driving techniques. The guidelines shall set standards for the observance of construction hours, construction routes, use of construction staging areas and employee safety procedures.
Select an airport consultant to assist the VNY Airport Association to develop guidelines and instructions that visiting aircraft owners and pilots will observe. A primary purpose of the program shall be the empowerment of the VNY Airport Association to monitor and counsel aviation violators of noise curfew, noise abatement, and other noise rules and policies.
Develop a program by the Department of Airports to measure the reduction of Stage 2 aircraft in accordance with projected Master Plan levels and to allow corrective action by the Department in accordance with Federal regulations.
Implement and enforce an airport landing fee based on certified noise levels for aircraft operations. Nighttime landing fees shall be increased to reflect the increased need for program administration during non traditional flight hours. These differential fees shall be used to raise funds for noise abatement measures. The Department shall establish a computerized system for collecting and recording of fees.
Develop an informational noise abatement guide for distribution to itinerant aircraft owners and pilots that identifies safety and noise abatement rules and policies observed at the airport.
Implement a program conducted by the Department of Airports to provide a one time interior noise measurement for all residential dwelling units located within the State Airport Nose Impact Area. Measurements shall be provided based on a homeowner's written request that has been submitted to the Department of Airports on an approved form. Noise measurements shall be recorded and submitted to Department staff and VNY Airport Association for follow-up and to identify sensitive residential uses located in a Noise Impact Area that qualify for FAA FAR Part 150 sound insulation programs.
Coordinate with the San Fernando Valley Realtors Association and the Mayor's Office of Economic Development to develop an early disclosure statement to notify to all prospective home buyers of residences located within a two mile radius of the exterior airport boundaries about the Van Nuys Airport.
Coordinate with helicopter pilots to establish voluntary pilot techniques and policies that will be observed for early morning and late night flights.
Develop a resolution for adoption by the Board of Airport Commissioners that indicates the importance of piston aircraft for new pilot training and encourages the continued use of Van Nuys Airport by piston aircraft operators.
Implement procedures to provide annual Master Plan Update Reports to the Van Nuys Airport Citizens Advisory Committee and Board of Airport Commissioners to identify objectives, policies and programs that are being implemented, cost of measures and anticipated completion dates for programs.
Erect temporary sound absorption walls and barriers on airport construction sites that have been determined to produce excessive noise from use of ground equipment machinery or tools for nearby residents.
Establish a retrofitting schedule for the enclosure of all existing rooftop mechanical equipment.
Evaluate aviation lease agreements to determine the feasibility of providing lease credits and other incentives that will result in early phase out of older Stage 2 aircraft and noisier helicopters by 2003.
Coordinate with the FAA to determine the feasibility of increasing helicopter altitude above the corridor through Van Nuys and Burbank airspace over the Ventura (101) Freeway and the San Diego (405) Freeway.
Coordinate with the FAA to determine the feasibility of using federal funds to pay for an avigation easement for existing residential properties that are predicted to be located in the 65 CNEL contour in the year 2015. Return to index
Develop airport development guidelines that contain minimum landscape standards for tenant uses with frontages along major, secondary or primary arterial streets.
Develop airport development guidelines that contain consistent landscaping, fence and wall standards for all airport tenants.
Develop architectural consistency standards for all new exterior building facades and wall or fence construction.
Develop airport beautification guidelines that contain focal airport entryway design standards and thematic building and property improvement standards that will be implemented by the Department of Airports.
(Master Plan Land Use Map follows this page in published document, not available on electronic format). Return to index