About the Construction Process

The Construction Process

The full "Homeowner's Guide to Permits & Inspections" can be downloaded as a PDF here.

1. Get zoning and property information from ZIMAS, an online research tool from the City Planning department.
   • If your property doesn't appear in ZIMAS, you may not be within the City of Los Angeles, and will require service from another County department. Use the Online Service Locator from the LA County Dept of Public Works to find out who services your area.
2. Design your project and draw plans
3. Submit plans and complete a permit application at an LADBS office
   • Note: If your project falls under any of the construction types in Express Permit (pdf), you do not need your plans checked. You may complete a permit application at an LADBS office or online.
   • Separate approvals may be needed from other departments and agencies, depending on the project scope. They may include Planning, Fire, Public Works, Transportation, CRA LA, Housing, DWP, Cultural Affairs, Health, AQMD, LAUSD, Oil and Gas, Cal OSHA
   • When you apply for a permit, you also have to submit the name of your construction waste hauler. Dept of Sanitation has a PDF list of permitted waste haulers for residents.
   • Note: You may also be required to complete a lobbying registration with the Ethics Commission if you meet the qualification criteria.
4. Plans are approved by LADBS and a permit is issued, which may be picked up at an LADBS office.
5. Construction begins, and inspections are requested while construction is occurring.
   • There are many different inspection types, and inspection requirements depending on the project. You must have an inspection done on relevant construction before any work is covered or concealed.
   • All inspections will be recorded on the Building Card (B-8), and plans must be present for each inspection.
6. Final inspection is performed and a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
   • Retain the Certificate of Occupancy and Building Card (B8) for your records