What to Expect During the Permitting Process in Los Angeles

Understanding Permitting Before You Begin 

For homeowners in Los Angeles, permitting is often the most misunderstood part of starting a renovation, addition or rebuild. We hear the same questions all the time: How long will it take? What’s involved? Why does the timeline vary so much? The truth is, the permitting process plays a critical role in every project, and understanding it early helps ensure a smoother, more predictable path forward. 

Why Permitting Takes Time 

Los Angeles has one of the most complex building departments in the country. Every project, even simple ones, must follow a layered review process that can include: 

• Building and safety 
• Zoning 
• Structural review 
• Mechanical, electrical and plumbing review 
• Fire department 
• Public works 
• Environmental requirements 
• Energy compliance 

Depending on scope, a project may require two or three departments — or eight or nine. This is why timelines vary, even for seemingly straightforward work. 

Typical Permitting Timelines 

While every project is unique, here are general guidelines: 

• Interior remodels: 2–4 weeks 
• Additions: 6–12 weeks 
• Major remodel + addition: 2–5 months 
• New construction or full rebuild: 4–7 months 

These ranges reflect real patterns we see across our projects. 

What Can Slow Things Down 

Common delays include: 

• Zoning restrictions or unclear property lines 
• Plan check comments that require revisions 
• Structural or architectural complexity 
• Coordination between multiple agencies 
• Backlogs at the city 
• Missing information from consultants 

These aren’t mistakes, they’re part of the process. 

How Reliance Manages the Process 

Permitting is where our diligence matters most. 
We manage the entire process, including: 

• Preparing full construction and permit drawings 
• Coordinating structural, civil and energy consultants 
• Submitting and tracking your application 
• Responding to plan check comments 
• Making revisions quickly 
• Keeping you informed at every milestone 

We do not simply “submit and wait.” 
We track your project continuously and address issues promptly. 

What Homeowners Can Expect During This Phase 

While we handle everything, here’s what your involvement looks like: 

• Approving final design plans before submittal 
• Reviewing any city-required changes 
• Making quick decisions when needed 
• Asking questions, we encourage it 

Your role is simple. Ours is comprehensive. 

Why Good Design Reduces Permitting Delays 

A thoughtful design package is one of the most effective ways to avoid permitting issues. 
At Reliance: 

• We design with the permitting requirements in mind 
• We think through structural implications early 
• We focus on clarity and completeness in our drawings 
• We avoid last-minute scope changes that trigger re-reviews 

This foresight shortens timelines and reduces surprises. 

Looking Ahead 

Permitting may feel overwhelming, but with the right team and a clear process, it becomes manageable, even predictable. Our goal is to handle the complexity so you can focus on the exciting parts of the project: designing your home and preparing for the transformation ahead.