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What is involved in the building permit process?
  1. Applicant submits plans to LADBS, if plan check is required
  2. LADBS reviews plans and issues corrections, and mandates separate City and County approvals as needed
  3. Applicant corrects plans
  4. LADBS verifies cor
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What is the Guaranteed Express Permit Program?

LADBS offers a money-back guarantee on Express Permit times.

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Is a permit required for installing any portable ventilating, comfort-cooling, or evaporative cooler equipment?

No.

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Is a plumbing permit required to replace my gas water heater in my single family dwelling unit?

Yes, unless the work is performed by a contractor that holds a valid Certificate of Registration from LADBS as a Certified Licensed Contractor (CLC). 

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Is a plumbing permit required to replace my residential garbage disposer?

No.

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When is a plumbing permit required for natural gas piping?

A plumbing permit is required for the installation of any gas piping, except piping less than 6 feet in length between an existing gas outlet and a gas appliance in the same room.

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What if my project doesn't conform to code?

If it is a building code issue, you may file a request for modification.

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What are the building permit fees based on?

Building permit fees are calculated based on the valuation of the project. Please refer to the Los Angeles City Building Code section 91.107 , or Contact Us at 3-1-1 for assistance.

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Which Codes does LADBS follow?

See detailed information regarding the codes we follow at the "LA City Code Amendments" page.

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What is a plan check?

Plan check is when your building plans are reviewed to make sure they comply with basic safety, engineering and planning rules. LADBS plan check engineers will review the design of such things as the structure, plumbing and electrical systems to make sure they are safe and properly designed.

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When is plan check required?

Projects that qualify for Express Permit do not require plan checks. Other plan checks, including plan checks by other City departments, county and state agencies may also be required for th

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How do I get my plans checked?

For small to medium projects, you may visit the Metro (Downtown), Van Nuys, and

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How long is a plan check application good for?

Plan check applications expire 18 months after the plan check fees are paid.

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How many sets of plans do I need at the time of filing for plan check, and at permit issuance?

At the time of filing:

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Can a homeowner prepare the drawings, obtain a building permit, & construct my own house or addition, without consulting an architect/engineer/contractor?

Yes, if the house is one story and will be built from plans based on the Department standard 

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How are changes to approved plans during construction handled by the department?

Generally speaking, any changes to Department-approved plans shall be approved by the plan review engineer who reviewed and issued the permit. 

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What is the current status of my plan check?

Call 3-1-1 to find out the current status of your plan check.

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What is an inspection?

All construction work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by authorized inspectors. An inspection must be performed before work is concealed or covered. It is your responsibility to notify the inspector when the work is ready for inspection.

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When do I call for an inspection?

Once you obtain a permit, you can commence with the work. However, you must call for inspection before you cover or conceal any work. If you are unsure of when to call for inspection, please contact our Customer Call Center at 3-1-1.

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How do I schedule for an inspection?

When the work is ready, request an inspection using one of three options:

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