Permitting in Los Angeles, California

Building codes tend to deal more with the type of construction and amenities being built rather than the function the building will serve. That said, some relevant codes to review include: 

• Chapter 62: Signs
• Chapter 67: Security Provisions
• Chapter 82: Change of Occupancy, Use and Rating Classification 

Here’s a quick link to the full City of Los Angeles Building Code. 

It’s important to note upfront that the documents required for your Los Angeles commercial building projects will largely depend on the type of project. Some projects will only require the minimum documentation detailed in the linked resource, while others will be more involved. Click here for the full list of required documents. 

Well, no two permits are the same, as a result, permit costs can vary. Generally speaking, it’s very rare for building permits to cost less than $1,000 – and that’s for a very simple project. For more complex tenant improvement projects, you will spend $10,000 or more in plan check fees and permit fees. Restaurants can expect to spend more because these projects tend to be more involved.

Generally, three factors determine permitting cost:

• Your overall scope of work.
• Square footage.
• Project valuation.

For more detail, check out our resource on City of Los Angeles permitting costs. 

Unfortunately, the answer is, it depends. Typical renovations and tenant improvements that trigger the need for a permit include:

• Building a new storefront, particularly if it involves any structural work or alterations like replacing existing doors, windows, etc.
• Accessibility compliance for access to the building.
• Putting up signage requires a permit unless you’re working within the confines of the retail center’s Master Sign Plan (MSP).
• Customizing the interior layout of the space, such as knocking down demising or interior walls, putting up new walls, or changing the spaces’s overall layout.
• Redoing fire sprinklers or alarms will require a permit from LADBS, and you’ll also have to work with the fire department.
• Making major changes to plumbing, electrical, or other mechanical systems, such as HVAC.
• Updating the exterior with a new roof, drains, guttering, and rooftop HVAC units.
• Installing storage racks over 5 ft. 9 in. As part of this, you’ll need to show a floor plan, structural plans, and calculations for the rack’s construction.

Read more in our complete guide to Los Angeles retail permits. 

At a high level, the permitting process includes the following eight steps: 

1. Get entitlements
2. Submit your plans to the LADBS for a pre-check.
3. Get a pre-inspection for any signage.
4. Submit a complete application and required documents for review. 
5. Receive and address any comments and corrections. 
6. Resubmit your updated documents for subsequent review. 
7. Get a letter of approval. 
8. Collect your building permits. 

The City of Los Angeles offers two types of expedited plan check services: 

• Counter Plan Check: The CPC service allows for same-day, over-the-counter plan review and permit issuance for minor projects that can be checked in 45 minutes or less.
• Expanded Counter Plan Check: The ECPC option provides over-the-counter or an appointment within 2 weeks for more extensive plan checks that can be completed in 2 hours or less.  

Check out this resource to get more details on Los Angeles Express Plan Check Options. 

The key contacts you’ll need to work with will be those plan check professionals assigned to your project. These professionals will be most familiar with your application and will most often have the answers you’re looking for. 

But, if you have specific questions before submitting your application, the City publishes a directory of departments with phone numbers. Click here for the phone directory and here is the employee directory. 

One issue that trips up a lot of businesses opening in Los Angeles is inspections. Los Angeles inspectors are very busy and want to be continually followed up with, not badgered but reminded. If you leave scheduling your inspection in their hands, you may experience a longer wait time than if you regularly follow up. 

Partner with your inspector, keep things professional and friendly. Remember they are overworked professionals so anything you can do without becoming a pest will work in your favor. 

LADBS is an acronym for Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. As you start working with the city, you’ll notice they use a number of different acronyms that may be a little confusing. We’ve created a list that defines and describes the most common LADBS acronyms. 

The City of LA has a good library of resources you can access through LADBS’s help section. In addition, their Zone Info Map Access System (ZIMAS) is a must use for any project. This tool makes it easy to find very important zoning and property information. If visiting LADBS’s website, the footer has quick links to a lot of valuable tools. 

Yes, in most cases you will need a permit for signage (except for malls). Los Angeles’ signage regulations encompass various factors, including size, location, and lighting, to ensure that signs contribute positively to the city’s aesthetic and do not pose safety risks.

• Size Regulations: The city imposes restrictions on sign dimensions based on the zoning of the property and the sign’s proximity to residential areas.
• Location Restrictions: Signs must be placed so they do not obstruct public right-of-way, interfere with traffic visibility, or encroach on public spaces. Visit zimas.lacity.org for zoning information. 
• Lighting Guidelines: Illuminated signs are subject to guidelines that prevent light pollution and disturbances to nearby residences.

Understanding these basic regulations is the first step in planning for compliant signage. Read through our resource on Los Angeles Sign Permitting for more information.