Jacob Bachar • September 26, 2025

The Homeowner’s Checklist: Getting Building Permits in Los Angeles

Planning a remodel or renovation on your Los Angeles home? Understanding the construction permit process in the City of Los Angeles is essential for every homeowner and business. A building permit in Los Angeles ensures your project complies with local building codes, passes safety inspections, and adds long-term value to your property. Based on our experience at We Do Construction, securing permits early is key to avoiding fines, delays, or complications down the line.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to obtain a permit in Los Angeles—from understanding permit requirements, to working with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), to managing inspections for both residential and commercial building projects.

Understanding the Importance of Permits

Why Permits Matter in Los Angeles

In the City of Los Angeles, strict codes regulate every building project. A construction permit ensures your remodel complies with local building standards designed to protect structural safety. For homeowners, permits also create an official record of work performed, which adds value when selling or refinancing. At We Do Construction, we’ve seen how a properly permitted project gives buyers confidence in the quality of a property.

The Consequences of Skipping Permits

Starting work without permits may result in a stop-work order, fines, or forced removal of unpermitted work. We’ve encountered cases where homeowners paid thousands to fix mistakes because a contractor bypassed permit requirements. Beyond legal consequences, skipping the permit and inspection process compromises safety and can even void insurance coverage.

Overview of the Permit Process

The permit process in Los Angeles begins with determining whether your remodel or new construction requires a permit. If it does, you must prepare building plans and submit them for LADBS review, along with the applicable permit fee. Once the plans pass the plan check, the city issues your permit, and construction can begin. Throughout the project, LADBS inspectors visit to ensure compliance. After final approval, the project is officially recognized as compliant with Los Angeles building regulations.

Types of Permits Needed for Home Remodeling

Common Types of Building Permits in Los Angeles

Depending on your remodeling project, you may need:

Building permits for structural changes or additions
Electrical permits for wiring, outlets, or panel upgrades
Plumbing permits for water and sewage system modifications
Mechanical permits for HVAC installation or repairs

When Do You Need a Building Permit in Los Angeles?

A building permit in Los Angeles is typically required if your remodel involves adding new square footage, altering plumbing or electrical systems, or making structural modifications. For example, new construction like a room addition or ADU almost always requires approval. Cosmetic upgrades such as painting or refinishing floors typically do not, but every project is unique, and LADBS emphasizes that a permit may be required depending on the scope.

Special Permits for Unique Projects

Certain projects need special permits in Los Angeles. Historic properties, hillside homes, and environmentally regulated areas often involve additional reviews. For commercial building remodels, permit requirements are even stricter, with safety, accessibility, and zoning considerations. We’ve handled cases where obtaining these approvals early saved clients months of delays.

Navigating the Building Permit Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Permit

The **building permit application process in Los Angeles** can be broken into key stages. First, determine whether your project requires a permit by checking LADBS guidelines. Next, prepare building plans with accurate details and submit them with the application and the required permit fee. LADBS then conducts a plan check to verify compliance with local building codes. If corrections are requested, they must be resolved before approval. Once approved, you’ll officially obtain a permit and can begin construction.

At We Do, we often manage this process on behalf of our clients. We’ve encountered many cases where incomplete documents caused unnecessary delays—something we work to prevent through thorough preparation.

Understanding the Plan Check Requirements

The plan check in Los Angeles is one of the most critical steps. LADBS carefully reviews your plans to ensure they meet safety and local building code standards. Common issues that cause delays include missing details or non-compliance with zoning rules. Based on our experience, having a professional prepare your plans makes this stage significantly smoother.

Common Challenges in the Application Process

Homeowners often find themselves confused by permit requirements or overwhelmed by long wait times. At We Do, we’ve helped clients navigate situations where multiple permits were needed for a single project, such as when structural changes overlapped with plumbing and electrical work. By managing every detail, we make sure projects move forward without costly interruptions.

Understanding Inspections and Permit Issuance

The Inspection Process Explained

Every construction project in Los Angeles that requires permits will also involve inspections. These occur at different stages of work and confirm that the project complies with approved plans and safety standards. Inspections are mandatory for both residential and commercial remodels.

What to Expect During an Inspection

During inspections, LADBS officials review the completed work against the approved permit. Homeowners should ensure the site is accessible and all documents are available. At We Do, we coordinate these inspections and address corrections quickly so projects stay on track.

After the Permit is Issued: Next Steps

Once all inspections are passed, LADBS grants final approval. This step certifies your remodel or new construction as compliant and safe. We always advise clients to keep a copy of their permits for insurance, refinancing, or future sales, since they are proof of legal and professional work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel in Los Angeles?

Yes. A kitchen remodel that involves plumbing, electrical, or structural updates requires a building permit in Los Angeles. Cosmetic changes such as painting or replacing countertops typically don’t, but LADBS emphasizes that a permit may still be required depending on the project.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Construction Permit in Los Angeles?

The timeline depends on the complexity of the project. Smaller remodels may be approved within weeks, while new construction or complex remodels with detailed plan checks can take months. In our experience, the fastest approvals come from complete, accurate submissions.

What Happens if I Don’t Get a Permit in Los Angeles?

If you begin work without permits, LADBS can issue stop-work orders, fines, or require demolition of unpermitted work. We’ve seen how failing to obtain a permit not only creates legal problems but also lowers property value. It’s always safer to go through the proper permit and inspection process.

Conclusion

Why Consult Professionals Before Obtaining a Building Permit in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles construction permit process can feel complicated, but with professional guidance it becomes manageable. At We Do, we’ve successfully handled permits for both residential remodels and commercial building projects, ensuring every detail is addressed upfront.

How We Do Construction Can Help with Your Remodeling Project

At We Do Construction, we guide homeowners through every step of the Los Angeles building permit process. We handle plan preparation, permit applications, necessary permit requirements, inspections, and final approvals—so you don’t have to. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, planning a garage conversion, or starting a new construction project, we make sure your remodel complies with City of Los Angeles codes and LADBS standards.

With We Do, every step of the construction permit process in Los Angeles is managed with expertise. You can focus on your remodel, while we handle the permits you need.

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t let the permit process slow down your dream remodel. Contact We Do Construction today to schedule a consultation and let our team handle the paperwork, approvals, and inspections for you.

📞 Phone: (818) 590 5206
📧 Email: la@wdconstructions.com