Woodland Hills Country Club housing project blocked by Los Angeles City Council

The Los Angeles City Council has moved to block a major housing project at the Woodland Hills Country Club. In an 11-1 vote, officials instructed staff to prepare an ordinance to amend zoning codes for agricultural and residential (A-1) zones, specifically seeking to exclude vacant lots like golf courses from certain redevelopment authorizations.

Outgoing Councilmember Bob Blumenfield led the effort, citing concerns regarding the site's location within a “very high” fire hazard severity zone. Additionally, the Planning Department determined the site serves as “wildlife habitat” for the endangered mountain lion, based on research from the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and other experts. Blumenfield stated the goal was to ensure the project underwent a discretionary review process rather than ministerial approval to protect community safety.

The developer, Newport Beach-based Arrimus Capital, has criticized the decision. The proposed 4868 Canoga Avenue project aimed to build 398 homes—including single-family houses and apartments with affordable units—on 20 acres of the 93-acre club. A representative for the developer, Aaron Green, called the decision an “affront to Angelenos” and indicated the company may file a lawsuit against the city, citing potential violations of state housing laws.