Ready to Issue Permits in LA
Understanding Ready-to-Issue Permits in Los Angeles (RTI) Navigating the construction permit process in Los Angeles can be daunting, but reaching the Ready-to-Issue (RTI) stage is a crucial milestone that indicates your project is almost ready to begin. This guide breaks down the steps, common challenges, and resources available to help you navigate the system […]
What to Know About the San Jose New Building Plan Submittal Process
Constructing a new commercial or industrial building is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Before breaking ground, you’ll need to obtain the necessary building permits from the City of San Jose. In this article, we’ll walk through the typical components of a new building plan submittal package in San Jose […]
San Jose Electronic Plan Review File Format Requirements
As the construction industry increasingly embraces digital tools, many jurisdictions are transitioning to electronic plan review (ePlan) for permit applications. Electronic submittals became standard practice during COVID, and fortunately, it hasn’t gone away. The City of San Jose is no exception, with SJePlan now the standard method for most building projects. Unfortunately, submitting plans electronically […]
City of San Jose Introduces Streamlined Tenant Alterations Review Option
The City of San Jose has recently revamped its expedited plan review process for office and commercial tenants looking to improve their leased spaces. Formerly known as the “Special Tenant Improvement-Industrial Tool Installation (STI-ITI) Service,” the program has been renamed to “Streamlined Tenant Alteration Review (STAR) Service” to better reflect its purpose. The STAR […]
The Difference Between ADUs, JADUs and Guest Houses
What is the difference between accessory dwelling units (ADUs), junior accessory dwelling unit (JADUs), and guest houses. In terms of location, an accessory dwelling unit may be attached or detached from the main dwelling structure. A JADU or junior ADU must be created from within the footprint of an existing single family dwelling. A […]
California ADU Amendment on Jurisdiction Restrictions Explained
The State of California amended their Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) handbook. As part of this, local jurisdictions are no longer allowed to limit, by ordinance, the minimum square footage of ADUs. In addition, they cannot set a maximum square footage of the ADUs. The State also says jurisdictions cannot put restrictions on ADU percentages […]
Introduction to Los Angeles Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permits
ADUs stand for Accessory Dwelling Units, which are small extra homes that you can build on your property in California. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about building an ADU in Los Angeles. Who can build an ADU in LA? Well, if you have a regular home, then you can usually build […]
ADU Requirements in Los Angeles
Before you submit your plans for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) permit in the City of Los Angeles, complete the following steps. Check your zoning. Go to zimas.lacity.org to verify that your property is zoned as residential. Check nearby transportation options. If your home is within a half a mile of any public transportation […]
LADBS Acronyms & Definitions
With the variety of acronyms and abbreviations used by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), it can be a challenge for those not used to working with the department to make sense of who, what or how permit applications or comments should be processed. The city does offer a glossary that […]
How to Accelerate Construction Timelines in the City of Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ Early Start Permit Program Explained In the dynamic landscape of Los Angeles construction, time is often as critical a resource as the materials that frame the city’s skyline. Recognizing the need to streamline project timelines without compromising on safety and compliance, the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) offers a solution: […]