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Changing how a building is used (for example retail to restaurant) requires plan review and a new occupancy approval.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Fire, Accessibility

Commercial tenant improvements require plan review for accessibility, fire, and life-safety.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Fire, Accessibility, possibly others

New fire sprinkler and alarm systems require plan review and fire department approval through ePlanLA. Like-for-like sprinkler head work and adding a device to an already-approved addressable fire-alarm system can be express — see the Express Permits bulletin.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Fire

Residential vs commercial

Sprinkler and alarm systems go through plan check and fire approval in ePlanLA either way. Commercial systems are more extensive; residential NFPA 13D systems are simpler but still reviewed.

A carport always needs plans - a standard plan qualifies - and a Zoning clearance, so it is not issued the same day.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning (setbacks, parking)

Residential vs commercial

A residential carport uses a standard or engineered plan through plan check in ePlanLA and needs a Zoning setback and parking clearance first, so it is not issued the same day. Commercial covered parking may add accessibility and full plan check in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

New commercial buildings require full plan review and clearances through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Fire, Grading, possibly others

A new detached garage or accessory building always needs plans and plan review for code compliance, so it is not issued the same day.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning (setbacks, lot coverage)

Residential vs commercial

A standard residential garage or accessory building requires typical plan review through plan check in ePlanLA and will also require Zoning review, so it is not issued the same day. Commercial accessory structures may require accessibility and fire review - confirm when you apply on ePlanLA.

A new mixed-use building requires full plan review and clearances through ePlanLA. Follow both the multifamily and commercial/industrial submittal requirements.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Fire, Grading, possibly others

Residential vs commercial

Mixed-use projects combine residential and commercial plan-check requirements in ePlanLA. Use both the multifamily dwelling and commercial/industrial building submittal bulletins.

New multifamily buildings require full plan review and clearances through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Fire, Grading, possibly others

An ADU requires plan review. Standard Plan ADUs can be faster. Submit through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Address, Sewer, Drainage, Possibly others

New single-family homes and duplexes require full plan review and clearances. Submit through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Grading, Fire, possibly others

A patio cover always needs plans for review for code compliance, so it is not issued the same day.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning

Residential vs commercial

A home patio cover may use a standard or custom engineered plan which requires plan review, so it is not issued the same day. A commercial patio cover or canopy often needs full plan check in ePlanLA for accessibility, fire, and others - confirm when you apply.

Decks no more than 30 inches are exempt from requiring a permit; elevated or attached decks and balconies need plans.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning (setbacks)

Residential vs commercial

A small home deck under 30 inches does not require a permit; an elevated or larger deck needs plans in ePlanLA. Commercial decks and balconies add accessibility and occupant-load review in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Retaining walls almost always require plans - a standard plan may qualify for lower walls. A low garden or slough wall under 3 feet that holds back no surcharge often needs no permit; see "Build a garden or slough wall."

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, possibly Grading/Geology

Residential vs commercial

A retaining wall almost always needs plans - a standard plan may qualify for lower walls - and plan check, residential or commercial. Taller or surcharged walls need engineered plans in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Mandatory and voluntary seismic retrofits require engineered plans submitted through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Structural review

Residential vs commercial

A retrofit needs engineered plans in ePlanLA either way. Soft-story ordinances target specific multifamily and commercial buildings; single-family retrofits are usually voluntary.

Removing a load-bearing wall or installing a new beam requires engineered structural plans.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Structural review

Residential vs commercial

Removing a bearing wall needs engineered plans in ePlanLA either way. Commercial projects may add fire-rating and accessibility review alongside the structural work.

Foundation repair, replacement, or underpinning requires engineered plans through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Structural review

Residential vs commercial

Foundation work needs engineered plans in ePlanLA either way. Commercial foundation work may add geotechnical and special-inspection review beyond a residential project.

Adding a second story is a structural addition that requires engineered plans through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Sewer, Drainage, Possibly others

Residential vs commercial

A second-story addition needs engineered plans in ePlanLA either way. A commercial vertical addition adds accessibility, fire, and occupant-load review beyond a residential one.

A square-footage addition requires plan review. Submit your plans through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Sewer, Drainage, Possibly others

Residential vs commercial

Additions go through plan check in ePlanLA either way. A commercial addition adds accessibility, fire, and life-safety review beyond the residential scope.

Converting a garage to habitable space (often an ADU) requires plan review through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Address, Sewer, Possibly others

Converting a patio or porch into conditioned living space adds floor area and requires plan review.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, possibly others

A haul route hearing before the Board of Building and Safety Commissioners (BBSC) is required for all applications for import or export of more than 1,000 cubic yards of soil in the hillside area. Verify if you are in a hillside area as designated by the current Bureau of Engineering Basic Grid Map No. A-13372; it is referenced in ZIMAS as a Special Grading Area (https://zimas.lacity.org/).

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Grading, Transportation, hillside route approval

Residential vs commercial

Requirement of a haul route is reviewed within the grading plans in ePlanLA for either commercial or residential projects.

Moving earth, cuts, and fills require a grading plan review. Submit through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Grading, Geology/Soils, Zoning

Residential vs commercial

Grading goes through plan check in ePlanLA either way for commercial or residential projects.

Residential accessibility upgrades are often express. Commercial accessibility work is reviewed with the project plans.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Often - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases for residential

Commercial accessibility upgrades (path of travel, restrooms, parking) are reviewed for code compliance through ePlanLA.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Accessibility, possibly Zoning

Adding circuits, outlets, lighting, a subpanel, voice/data wiring, or repairing damaged wiring is generally an express electrical permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Residential wiring is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial circuits may add load-calculation and plan check in ePlanLA - confirm the scope when you apply.

Masonry or concrete fences over 3 1/2 feet (1067 mm) high require a permit, while masonry or concrete fences of or under 3 1/2 feet do not. Other fences not over 10 feet are exempt from obtaining a building permit per LABC 106.2 Exception 12.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Sometimes - masonry/concrete fences over 3 1/2 ft (1067 mm) may be same-day if Zoning-compliant and under 6 ft per the 6" CMU wall detail

Likely clearances

Zoning

Residential vs commercial

A fence within the exempt height limits often needs no permit. Masonry or concrete fences over 3 1/2 feet need a permit; commercial frontages may add zoning and corner-visibility review - confirm when you apply.

A low garden or slough wall under 3 feet that holds back no surcharge often needs no permit. (Anything taller, or any wall retaining soil, is a retaining wall and needs plans.)

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

Over-the-counter when a permit is needed; many low walls need no permit at all

Likely clearances

Zoning (if a permit is needed)

Residential vs commercial

A residential garden or slough wall under 3 feet that holds back no surcharge often needs no permit. Anything taller, or any wall retaining soil, is a retaining wall and needs plans - see "Build a retaining wall." Commercial frontages may add zoning and corner-visibility review.

Outdoor fire pits, BBQ's and replacement of existing prefabricated fireplaces are eligible for express permits.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

In-ground pools and spas require plan review, including safety barrier requirements. Standard plan pool packages still go through plan check.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans including pool plans using a standard plan will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Health

Residential vs commercial

Pools go through plan check either way. Public and commercial pools add County Health and stricter barrier and accessibility rules beyond a residential pool.

Demolition needs a permit. At minimum a plot plan and plan notes are required for counter review; it is not an express permit.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - a plot plan and plan notes go through counter review and any required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Demolition pre-inspection, Demolition Notices

Residential vs commercial

Both residential and commercial demolitions require a plot plan, plan notes, and counter review, so it is not issued the same day. Commercial demolitions may require additional review - confirm when you apply.

Non-structural interior demolition ahead of a remodel is typically an over-the-counter permit.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance.

Likely clearances

None in most cases for non-structural interior demo

Residential vs commercial

Small remodeling items for residential properties are listed in the Express Permits Information Bulletin (for example remodeling a bathroom). Commercial interior remodels are typically over-the-counter projects - confirm when you apply.

Finishing a basement or attic into habitable space adds floor area and requires plan review.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, possibly others

Plans are required if work is under 75% complete. If over 75% complete, plans are not required.

Plans required?

Yes if under 75% complete; No if over 75% complete

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Sometimes - express when inspection finds the work at least 75% complete

Likely clearances

If work completed is less than 75%, additional clearances may be required

Temporary special events with stages, bleachers, or large gatherings need a Temporary Special Event permit and fire clearances for occupant load and exiting.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

A Fire clearance for occupant load and exiting must clear first, so not same-day

Likely clearances

Fire (occupant load, exiting)

Banners and temporary signs are express permits with limits on size, placement, and how long they can stay up.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Usually over-the-counter; a Zoning placement clearance may be required first (then not same-day)

Likely clearances

Zoning (duration, placement limits)

There is no separate "BESS" permit type - a commercial battery energy storage system is reviewed through plan check in ePlanLA, with Fire Department sign-off for battery chemistry, spacing, and ventilation (per CFC/NFPA 855) alongside the electrical plans.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Fire, Electrical, possibly Zoning

A commercial (Type I/II) kitchen exhaust hood requires mechanical plan review and fire clearance.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Fire, Mechanical

A home battery or standby generator usually needs an electrical (and sometimes mechanical) permit.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Often over-the-counter; larger battery banks add a fire-clearance review that must clear first (not same-day)

Likely clearances

Fire setbacks may apply

Small awnings or canopies (4' or less) attached to a residential building are exempt from requiring a permit; larger awnings or canopies including those which project over a sidewalk need plan review and clearances.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning; Public Works if over the right-of-way

Residential vs commercial

Small awnings or canopies (4' or less) attached to a residential building are exempt from requiring a permit; larger awnings or canopies including those which project over a sidewalk need plan review and clearances.

A residential EV charger is typically an express electrical permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

A home charger is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial, multi-port, or public chargers usually need plan check in ePlanLA for accessibility (CBC 11B) and load review - confirm when you apply.

A self-contained prefabricated or above-ground spa is usually an express electrical/plumbing permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

Electrical bonding; barrier rules may apply

Residential vs commercial

A residential prefab spa is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial and public spas add County Health and barrier and accessibility review through plan check in ePlanLA.

Installing a sign requires plans through ePlanLA. Large, illuminated, or freeway-facing signs may require full plan review.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning (sign district), Electrical if illuminated

Residential solar water heating is usually an express combination plumbing/mechanical permit.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Often - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases for residential rooftop

Residential vs commercial

A residential solar water heater is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial solar-thermal systems may add structural and plan check in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Installing radiant barrier or insulation in an attic, walls, or floor on a single-family dwelling or duplex is typically an express building permit. Multi-family and commercial need plan review for code compliance.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA for express permits, ePlanLA for plan review

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day for single-family dwellings and duplexes

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

A one-to-two family dwelling installation of insulation is an express PermitLA permit. Multi-family and commercial insulation needs plan check review in ePlanLA.

Whole-house fans and exhaust/ventilation fans are typically express mechanical permits.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Adding or extending gas piping (including low-pressure systems with up to 10 outlets) or adding a same-size seismic gas shutoff valve is an express plumbing permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

A residential gas line is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial or high-pressure, high-load gas systems may need plan check in ePlanLA - confirm the load when you apply.

Security bars on dwellings and apartments are usually an express building permit. Bedroom bars must have an approved quick-release device.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day when the work matches Express Permit rules

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors inside houses, duplexes, and apartment units are typically an express electrical permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day for residential units

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Most residential rooftop solar is an express permit. Battery storage may add requirements.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Often - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases for residential rooftop

Residential vs commercial

Residential rooftop solar is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial or large ground-mount arrays usually need plan check in ePlanLA for structural and fire-access review - confirm when you apply.

A temporary construction trailer or office needs a permit; occupied units add utility and accessibility requirements.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Often over-the-counter; a Zoning clearance and utility sign-off (if occupied) must clear first (not same-day)

Likely clearances

Zoning; utility connections if occupied

Residential vs commercial

An unoccupied trailer is usually an express PermitLA permit. Occupied commercial trailers add accessibility and utility-connection review, sometimes through ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Yes (commercial), No (residential). Apply with BOE for work in the public right-of-way; apply with LADBS for commercial.

Plans required?

Yes (commercial), No (residential)

Where to apply

BOE: public right-of-way; LADBS (ePlanLA): commercial

Same-day permit?

Usually no LADBS permit is needed for a residential driveway; a new apron, curb cut, or sidewalk in the public right-of-way needs a separate permit from Public Works (BOE)

Likely clearances

Public Works (BOE) for apron, curb cut, or sidewalk

Residential vs commercial

Yes (commercial), No (residential). Apply with BOE for work in the public right-of-way; apply with LADBS for commercial.

Yes (commercial), No (residential). Apply with BOE for work in the public right-of-way; apply with LADBS for commercial.

Plans required?

Yes (commercial), No (residential)

Where to apply

BOE: public right-of-way; LADBS (ePlanLA): commercial

Same-day permit?

Usually no LADBS permit is needed for residential ground-level flatwork; some zones require a Zoning lot-coverage check

Likely clearances

Zoning (lot coverage in some zones); Public Works (BOE) for public sidewalk work

Residential vs commercial

Yes (commercial), No (residential). Apply with BOE for work in the public right-of-way; apply with LADBS for commercial.

Many simple jobs on the LADBS Express Permits list can be issued the same day in PermitLA with no plan check — including items without their own card such as commercial refrigeration, elevator repair, boilers, meter reconnection, and backflow devices. Check the Express Permits Information Bulletin (P/GI 2026-003) for the full list and thresholds.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day when the work is on the Express Permits list

Likely clearances

None in most cases for listed express items

Residential vs commercial

Many small residential items (for example a bathroom remodel that stays on the Express list) are same-day in PermitLA. Larger or commercial scopes can move into plan check in ePlanLA - confirm against the Express Permits Information Bulletin when you apply.

Tents accessory to a dwelling and not exceeding 450 square feet do not require a permit per LABC 101.5 #17. Outdoor tents or cloth structures for temporary use not exceeding 30 days and not exceeding 12 feet (3658 mm) in any dimension, accessory to an indoor or outdoor assembly use on the site, also do not require a permit per LABC 106.2 Exception 7.

Plans required?

Sometimes, if not exempt

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Zoning, Fire

Residential vs commercial

Tents under 450 sq ft for use of a home are exempt from a permit along with commercial tents no larger than 12 ft in any direction that are temporary (under 30 days).

Kitchen and bathroom remodels for residential buildings with no structural changes are express permits. Commercial restrooms need plan review for code compliance.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA for express permits, ePlanLA for plan review

Same-day permit?

Yes - typically same day if there is no structural change and no new openings. Structural changes or new openings go to plan check first.

Likely clearances

None in most cases unless layout changes

Residential vs commercial

A home bathroom remodel with no structural changes is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial restrooms must meet accessibility and public health codes and need plan check review in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Kitchen and bathroom remodels for residential buildings with no structural changes are express permits. Kitchen remodels for commercial sites need plan review for code compliance.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

PermitLA for express permits, ePlanLA for plan review

Same-day permit?

Yes - typically same day if there is no structural change and no new openings. Structural changes or new openings go to plan check first.

Likely clearances

None in most cases unless layout changes

Residential vs commercial

A home kitchen remodel with no structural changes is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial kitchens must meet public health codes and need plan check review in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Removing or adding a non-bearing partition often needs plans through ePlanLA. Load-bearing walls need engineered plans.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

None in most cases for small remodels

Residential vs commercial

A residential non-bearing wall remodel is often an over-the-counter project. Commercial tenant improvement changes may add accessibility, exiting, and fire review through plan check in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

A swimming pool may either be backfilled with structural compacted fill suitable for the support of footings, or left in place and backfilled with uncertified fill. In both cases, a grading permit is required.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Grading pre-inspection, if applicable

Residential vs commercial

Mechanical and electrical permits for pool removal may be required, when applicable (except 1-2 family dwellings).

Residential chimney repair per city standard details is typically an express building permit. See the chimney reconstruction bulletin for damaged masonry chimneys.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day when work follows city standard chimney details

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Repairs to exterior balconies, decks, and stairways are not eligible for an express permit. Plans are reviewed for code compliance before the permit is issued.

Plans required?

Yes

Where to apply

ePlanLA

Same-day permit?

No - Drafted plans will be reviewed for code compliance and required clearances will be confirmed before the permit is issued.

Likely clearances

Depends on scope

Minor repairs may be express in PermitLA; structural or extensive damage repair needs plan review in ePlanLA. Disaster rebuilds may qualify for expedited handling.

Plans required?

Sometimes

Where to apply

ePlanLA for plan check or PermitLA for express

Same-day permit?

Depends on extent of damage

Likely clearances

Depends on scope

Residential vs commercial

Minor like-for-like repairs are express in PermitLA; major repairs need plans in ePlanLA. Commercial repairs more often trigger accessibility and fire upgrades in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Repairing or replacing a sewer lateral is an express plumbing permit. Work in the street also needs a Public Works permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Over-the-counter for work on your lot; a sewer line in the public right-of-way needs a Public Works clearance first (not same-day)

Likely clearances

Public Works if work is in the right-of-way

Residential vs commercial

A residential sewer line is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial laterals may add sizing and backflow review; work in the street also needs a separate Public Works permit - confirm when you apply.

Replacing termite- or dry-rot-damaged framing, fascia, and trim is generally an express repair permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Like-for-like repair is an express PermitLA permit either way. Extensive commercial structural repairs may need plans in ePlanLA - confirm the scope when you apply.

Whole-house re-piping and sewer/water line work are usually express plumbing permits.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Re-piping a house is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial and multifamily re-pipes can add plan check in ePlanLA for sizing and backflow - confirm when you apply.

A like-for-like electrical panel replacement is typically an express, no-plans permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Homes and most commercial panels use the same express PermitLA permit. A large commercial service or new switchgear can trigger plan check in ePlanLA - confirm the rating when you apply.

Water heater replacement is an express permit you can pull online.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

A residential water heater is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial, high-capacity, or tankless-bank installs may need plan check in ePlanLA for venting and sizing - confirm when you apply.

Replacing or adding heating and cooling equipment — including like-for-like A/C change-outs and duct work without a smoke-control system — is typically a mechanical express permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Residential HVAC is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial rooftop, packaged, or ducted systems may need mechanical plan check in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Like-for-like window replacement is usually an express permit. Changing size or adding openings may need plans.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases (egress sizing applies)

Residential vs commercial

Like-for-like home window replacement is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial buildings may need plan check in ePlanLA for accessibility, safety glazing, and Title 24 - confirm when you apply.

Re-plastering an existing swimming pool is an express permit via PermitLA.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day for re-plaster of an existing pool

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Re-plastering an existing swimming pool is an express permit. A separate express mechanical permit for new skimmer(s) and a separate express electrical permit for new pool luminaire is required, when applicable, except for one and two-family dwellings. The pool shall comply with the Swimming Pool Safety Act, Health and Safety Code 115920-115929, through Senate Bill 552.

Residential reroofing is generally a no-plans permit you can pull online.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

A residential reroof is an express PermitLA permit. Commercial and low-slope roofs may need plan check in ePlanLA for structural, drainage, or Title 24 review - confirm the roof type when you apply.

Re-stucco and siding replacement are typically no-plans permits.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Residential re-stucco or re-siding is an express PermitLA permit. On commercial buildings, weather-barrier and fire-rated wall assemblies may need plan check in ePlanLA - confirm when you apply.

Whole-house rewiring (including knob-and-tube replacement) is usually an express electrical permit. Minor damaged-wiring repairs are also often express.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day

Likely clearances

None in most cases

A temporary power pole under 600 volts and up to 400 amps of load is typically an express electrical permit.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually issued the same day under 600 volts and up to 400 amps

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Temporary power poles within the express voltage/amp limits are issued in PermitLA for both residential and commercial jobs. Larger services need plan check.

Transferring an existing permit to a new owner or contractor is an administrative item that applies to any project, not only repairs.

Plans required?

No

Where to apply

PermitLA

Same-day permit?

Yes - usually processed the same day as an administrative express item

Likely clearances

None in most cases

Residential vs commercial

Permit transfers (change of owner or contractor) are administrative express items for both residential and commercial permits.