THE COMMERCIAL FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

APPLICATION PERIOD TO SUBMIT CLOSED ON SEPTEMBER 1, 2024
AND WILL REOPEN IN MARCH/APRIL 2025

VIEW THE APPLICATION

Since the 1980’s, the renovation of a number of businesses had been enabled by the use of the Downtown Commercial Rehabilitation Rebate Program.  Over the years, the Redevelopment Agency was able to provide business and property owners the ability to improve their properties by making aesthetic upgrades to the exterior of their buildings. The program was very successful in improving the overall look and feel of the Downtown. Actions by Downtown property owners and merchants to upgrade their buildings lead to an improved image and physical environment for the entire Downtown area. Due to the State of California ending Redevelopment powers throughout the state, Torrance was forced to suspend the rebate program. 

The City’s recently completed “Downtown Revitalization and Connectivity Plan” identified the need for a Rebate program to aid in the revitalization of Downtown. Since that study was completed, City Staff have developed a new program to help business and property owners refurbish their properties and beautify the City.

The City has set aside Economic Development funding for the new program and has made it available to properties throughout the City! Eligible properties include commercial and industrial properties located within the City of Torrance that are in need of improvement. Projects that comply with the requirements of the program will be accepted on a first come first served basis while funding is available. Projects shall be voluntary upgrades to commercial and industrial properties; no code required, conditioned, or mandatory work is eligible for the program. Residential properties are not eligible for this program.

The Commercial Facade Improvement Program is designed to assist property/business owners visually upgrade their property and beautify the area. 

Potential Projects Include: 

 The program is structured to provide the recipient greater flexibility with a three-tiered approach: 

 Tier 1:  Minor Repairs

In Tier 1, projects would be eligible for a rebate of up to $1,000.  The participant can receive a rebate covering up to 50% of the cost of improvements with a maximum rebate of $1,000.  This could include minor improvements such as signs, awning, landscaping, and paint upgrades. No prevailing wages requirement would be triggered at this tier.

 Tier 2:  Moderate Upgrades

Projects under Tier 2 are envisioned to be larger in scope with a rebate that could range up to $20,000.  The participant could receive up to 50% of the cost of improvements with a maximum rebate of $20,000.  Larger façade improvements could be addressed such as exterior improvements such as stuccoing, painting, landscaping, awnings, windows and doors and addressing code violations.  At this tier, prevailing wage requirements would be triggered.

 Tier 3:  Large Scale Projects

Tier 3 projects could be eligible to receive 50% of the cost of improvements with a maximum rebate of $40,000.  These funds may be used for more extensive rehabilitation projects such as a façade remodel, code compliance upgrades, and/or site improvements.  Again, at this tier, prevailing wage requirements would be triggered.

Process:

Potential applicants are encouraged to talk to Planning Staff prior to submitting an application to determine eligibility. Applicants must fill out the application in its entirety including supplementary material requested in the application and submit a hard copy to the Planning Division during the application period. Eligible projects will be processed on a first come first served basis while funds are available. Rebate agreements will be drafted after the application period closes. Once the agreements are signed and approved the applicant may conduct the associated work within the timeframe specified. After the project is completed and the required documentation is received by the City, the rebate will be issued. 

Commercial Facade Improvement Application

Commercial Facade Improvement Application fillable

View the Ineligible Business List

If you are interested in participating in the Commercial Facade Improvement Program or have questions about the program, please contact Community Development Department Staff at (310) 618-5990.  

If interested in more information, please complete the Commercial Facade Improvement Interest Form. (This is not the application)