Private Developer Cultural Arts Requirement
The City of Santa Monica’s cultural requirement for development is both innovative and flexible. The ordinance contributes to the built environment, expands residents and visitors access to a broad array of cultural resources and enhance Santa Monica’s identity as a cultural destination. The ordinance calls for developers to allot 2% of their building permit valuation to on-site arts and/or cultural uses or to make a contribution of 1% of the project costs to a Cultural Arts Trust Fund. The Santa Monica governing body voted unanimously to adopt this groundbreaking ordinance, declaring that it was essential to balance the development and revitalization of private property with the development of cultural and artistic resources. The Council’s goal is not only to preserve but also to improve the quality of life within the City.