All submissions will be reviewed by LADBS for inclusion in the program. Each submission must include a complete architectural and structural drawing set with accompanying code compliance documentation.

LADBS will charge plan review fees based on the number of required hours to review initial plans for pre-approval. Once an owner chooses a pre-approved plan for permitting, building plan check and permit fees will be based on the total project valuation (total cost of construction).

Step 1.

Register & Upload your Designs

Step 2.

LADBS Reviews Plans

Step 3.

Upon Approval - City Notifies Architect/Builder that review is complete

Step 4.

Design is added to Standard Plan Catalog

1. Every property is unique. A pre-approved design may not work for your property due to site-specific constraints. Verify with LADBS that the pre-approved design works for your property before you contract with a professional.
2. All pre-approved standard plans require final review by LADBS, to ensure final compliance and address site-specific conditions and clearances, before you can obtain building permits to begin construction.
3. The pre-approval of a plan is not an endorsement by the City of the designer/firm or their ability to complete the work they contract to do. Applicants should do their own due diligence before entering into a contract with a professional.
4. Designers own and are responsible for their design. You must contract with the design professional to use their pre-approved plans.
5. Pre-approved designs may or may not be able to be customized. Please work with the designer in question to see whether or not there are customizable options available.

*Please note that individual sites are unique and different. Localized soil conditions may require site-specific foundation work, structural designs, and/or detailed engineering in order to support the proposed design

1. Review the Pre-Approved Standard Plan Catalog - Start by reviewing the City’s catalog of pre-approved standard plans and pick a plan that suits your needs. If you do not see a design that fits your needs right away, please check back regularly as new designs will be added to the catalog on a rolling basis.

    

2. Contact the Plan Owner/Designer - Homeowners wishing to use a standard plan must coordinate directly with the plan owner for access, pricing and to understand the terms of use.

    

3. Right-Size the Design to Your Property - Work with the designer to review whether there are any customizable aspects to their design, as well as how the design fits your unique lot conditions. It is encouraged to check with LADBS that your preferred design is feasible considering any unique site-specific conditions on your lot. Note that adjustments may result in additional costs and may require additional reviews by the City.

    

4. Optional: Use of AI Pre-Plan Check (“Know Before You Go”) - Before formally submitting, you or your architect may upload your customized plan to the City’s AI pre-plan check tool. This allows you to identify potential issues and make corrections early, saving time and avoiding delays.

    

5. Submit Plans to LADBS - Once finalized, submit your plan package to LADBS for formal review. Online via the Eplan LA portal.

    

6. Obtain Permit - After LADBS reviews and approves your plans, your permit will be issued.

    

7. Begin Construction - With your permit in hand, you may proceed with construction. Once construction is underway, LADBS inspections will be required prior to obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy.

Once you have selected or prepared your standard plan, you can submit your application through the City's ePlan system.