Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS)

At a time when access to open space is so vital to mental health and wellbeing, Los Angeles is leading by example by exploring avenues to both create and promote a vibrant network of urban spaces throughout the city.. City Planning’s Urban Design Studio is rolling out a comprehensive citywide approach to POPS and a concerted City program that recognizes POPS as part of our City's overall open space network. Courtyards, plazas, paseos, parks and public art installations are some examples of POPS that create pockets of open space for shared public use while remaining under private ownership . POPS are typically created as part of a development project, agreed upon by and among the city and developer. Zoning tools such as development agreements, conditions of approval, and covenants are the means by which the city ensures that these spaces are maintained and remain open for the enjoyment of the general public.

Our interactive storymap provides an overview of POPS within Los Angeles and includes information on location, hours of operation, and amenities to ensure that the public can easily find and enjoy them.

With the adoption of the new Zoning Code for the Downtown Community Plan, Los Angeles will for the first time require Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) wayfinding signage to raise awareness on publicly accessible open spaces that are maintained and managed by property owners. At a time when access to open space is so vital to mental health and wellbeing, Los Angeles is leading by example by exploring avenues to both create and promote a vibrant network of urban spaces in Downtown and, eventually, across other parts of the City.

To download the guidelines and editable template of the City's new POPS wayfinding signage, click on the sign template below.

Public Spaces Thumbnail Image

For additional details on placement and layout of the POPS sign please see the tabs below:

POPS Side Guide