How to Pull a Building Permit in Los Angeles, CA (2026 Guide)
Los Angeles has one of the largest construction markets in the country, and LADBS processes a massive volume of permits. Whether you're doing a kitchen remodel in Silver Lake or ground-up construction in the Valley, here's how the permit process works.
Where to Apply
The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) handles all building permits.
Online Portal: ePlanLA — requires an Angeleno account registration. This is where you submit plans, pay fees, and track status.
Website: ladbs.org
In-Person: Multiple LADBS offices across the city. The main office is at 201 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Phone: (213) 482-0000 or 311 within LA.
What Does an LA Building Permit Cost?
LA calculates fees based on project valuation:
- Residential remodel (under $50K): $500 - $2,000 in permit fees
- Residential addition: $2,000 - $5,000+
- New residential construction: $5,000 - $15,000+ depending on valuation
- Electrical, mechanical, plumbing: Separate permits required with additional fees
- Example: A project with $1M valuation runs approximately $5,000+ in building permit fees alone
LA also charges plan check fees, which are typically 65-80% of the permit fee on top.
How Long Does It Take?
LA offers five different permit tracks, and your timeline depends on which one you use:
Express Permit: Same-day or next-day for simple work (water heater replacement, re-roofing, minor repairs). Walk in, walk out.
Counter Plan Check: 1-2 weeks for straightforward residential projects that can be reviewed at the counter.
Expanded Counter Plan Check: 2-4 weeks for more complex residential work.
Regular Plan Check: 2-3 months for commercial or complex residential. This is the standard track.
Parallel Design Permitting: For large projects where grading/foundation can start while upper floors are still in review. Saves months on big builds.
What You'll Need
- Completed application (online or in-person)
- Construction plans to scale (PDF for ePlanLA)
- Title 24 energy calculations (California-specific requirement)
- Structural calculations
- Soils/geology report (required in hillside or liquefaction zones)
- Proof of licensed contractor
- School fee payment receipt (required for new residential construction)
- Grading permit (if any earthwork is involved)
Tips From LA Contractors
Use express permits when you can. A huge percentage of LA permit work qualifies for same-day express processing. Check the LADBS express permit list before assuming you need full plan review.
Title 24 compliance is California-specific. Every project needs energy compliance documentation. Get your Title 24 calcs done early — it's a common hold-up.
Hillside zones have extra requirements. If the property is in a hillside area, you'll need a geology report and may face additional review by the Grading Division. This can add months.
LADBS correction letters are detailed. When you get plan check corrections, address every single item. Partial responses get sent back, adding another review cycle.
ADU permits are streamlined. California has made Accessory Dwelling Unit permitting faster statewide. If your project is an ADU, it may qualify for expedited processing under state law.
Track LA Building Permits on PermitGrab
Los Angeles generates thousands of building permits every month across a massive metro area. PermitGrab tracks active LA building permits daily from official LADBS records. Find leads by trade, see project descriptions, and reach property owners before your competition.
Last updated: March 2026. Always verify current requirements with LADBS.