Is my Property in the Methane Zone? – LADBS Methane Mitigation

Share This Post

Is my Property in the Methane Zone? – LADBS Methane Mitigation

Methane Mitigation is becoming a frequent requirement when developing in Los Angeles. A project’s Methane Gas Hazard requirements are based on the LADBS Methane Soil Gas Test resultsLADBS Methane Soil Gas Test.

 

A Methane Test is required if your project is located within the LADBS Methane Zone.

The step-by-step process below will help determine whether your Property is located within the Methane Zone.

To ensure that the Mitigation Construction requirements are not overlooked during the planning and budgeting phase,

 

Using Zimas to Define Gas Hazard Types

The first step is to visit www.Zimas.com. Zimas is an online database that LADBS has established to provide information regarding parcels within Los Angeles City. Please just enter the address number and street name as you asked, do not add any prefixes or suffixes to the street’s name; for example, for South Wilshire Blvd, you should only enter Wilshire.

Once the information is inputted into Zimas, you will see a property map and a panel on the left side of the window. Click the “Additional” tab on the left panel to expand additional information. Under this tab, refer to “Methane Hazard Site” In this location, you will see either “No,” “Methane Buffer Zone,” or “Methane Zone” listed.

If “No” is listed, your project is not within the Methane Zone, and LADBS will not require Methane Mitigation. If Methane Zone or Methane Buffer Zone is listed, LADBS will require a Methane Test to establish your Methane Mitigation requirements.

Property in the Methane Zone LADBS Methane Zone

Methane Zone Map

The city of Los Angeles has also established a methane zone map showing shaded regions of the methane zone and methane buffer zones.

On this map, lightly shaded purple colors define the Methane Zone. While the dark purple perimeter defines the Methane Buffer Zone. Although the Methane Zone map is a great visual source, you should use Zimas as the primary source. For establishing your methane hazard site criteria.

What if my Property is located only partially in a Methane Zone?

Considering the Methane Hazard Type is established on location, a property will inevitably be partially located within a Methane Zone. Thus is may be somewhat not categorized as a methane hazard. In these cases, we highly recommend you contact your LADBS plan checker to set up the methane testing. Also potential Methane Mitigation requirements and Mitigation Construction. There are too many variables in development that make it difficult to set a standard for what the conditions would be for these scenarios. But based on previous Case Studies:

  • LADBS may require the developer to assume that the entire project is within a methane hazard zone. Hence the methane mitigation requirements will be based on the methane test results for the methane zone criteria.
  • LADBS plan checker may evaluate the location of the proposed structure in conjunction with the portion of the property. Which is classified as a methane zone. The plan checker may only enforce the methane zone requirements for the property located within the Methane Zone.

Methane Mitigation Consultant

In all cases, evaluating your project specific details with a Methane Mitigation Consultants is critical. The LADBS plan checker is highly recommended to establish the final Methane Testing, Mitigation Design, and Methane Mitigation Construction requirements.

Property Mitigation Construction Zone LADBS Methane Zone

More To Explore

Effective Solutions for Hydrostatic Pressure Waterproofing

Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water accumulates in the soil around a structure, exerting force on its foundation. This pressure can lead to water infiltration, structural damage, and mold growth if not properly managed. Hydrostatic pressure waterproofing is essential for buildings in areas with high water tables or heavy rainfall, ensuring long-term stability and protection. Common

Designing Vapor Control Systems for Safety

Vapor control systems play a critical role in maintaining workplace safety by managing hazardous gas emissions. These systems are essential in industrial facilities, storage areas, and construction sites where volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and gases like methane pose risks. Implementing a well-designed vapor control system can enhance safety, reduce environmental impact, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Thermal Science Innovations Fighting Climate Change

Climate change remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and advancements in thermal science are playing a key role in reducing environmental impact. From enhancing energy efficiency to minimizing waste heat, these innovations contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally, methane mitigation strategies, such as methane capture and methane emission reduction, could

Water-Saving Techniques for Sustainable Construction

Water conservation is a fundamental aspect of sustainable construction. As the demand for eco-friendly building solutions rises, developers and contractors must adopt water-saving techniques to minimize environmental impact and enhance efficiency. Additionally, addressing other sustainability concerns, such as methane emissions from construction activities, could further improve environmental performance. Exploring methane capture strategies alongside water-saving techniques

Understanding DTSC Policies on Vapor Intrusion

Vapor intrusion is a pressing environmental concern where hazardous chemicals from contaminated soil or groundwater migrate into indoor air spaces. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has implemented policies to address this issue, ensuring public safety and environmental preservation.  These policies play a pivotal role in managing risks, particularly in urban and industrial

Applying Thermal Sciences to Improve Building Performance

Thermal sciences play a critical role in designing energy-efficient buildings that meet modern performance standards. By understanding heat transfer, thermodynamics, and material properties, architects and engineers can create structures that conserve energy while maintaining comfort. Integrating sustainable practices like methane mitigation further amplifies these efforts, contributing to a more environmentally conscious approach to construction. The