Who can pull a permit?
A contractor or his/her authorized agent can pull a permit. See the Information Bulletin No. P/GI 2014-001 for information.
Who can sign any affidavit required by the City?
Each required affidavit shall be signed by the owner of the property.
Whom do I appeal a Building Code violation to?
You can appeal is to LADBS and your appeal will be heard by LADBS Board of Commissioners. You will need to submit your appeal by completing this form.
Whom I contact if I am not happy with a supervisor's determination?
You can request the staff's immediate supervisor to discuss the matter further.
Will my complaint be confidential?
Yes, each complaint will be kept confidential.
How long does take to assign my plan to a plan check engineer?
The time to assign the plans changes from week to week. Normally, regular plan check submittals take 15 to 30 business days, and expedite submittals will take 6 to 10 days. These estimates are subject to change.
How can I check the status of my submitted plans?
The plan check status can be obtained from the LADBS website or by going to Plan Review.
When does the counter open and close?
Counter hours are as follows:
- Monday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Tuesday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Wednesday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Thursday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Are there any general notes for grading plans submittal?
No. The Grading Division no longer maintains standard general notes for grading plans.
Can I construct a permeable pavement at my property to infiltrate stormwater?
Yes, for passive (non-concentrated) infiltration only.
Can I further expedite the review of a report?
Not usually. However, further expediting supplemental reports for projects under construction can be considered. It’s recommended to discuss with the grading division reviewers at the time of submittal.
Can I get a copy of a GPI report?
Yes. A completed GPI report may be obtained from the Records Section or Grading Division.
Can I get a GPI waiver?
GPI waivers may be granted by the district grading inspector on a case by case basis. Waivers are generally not granted for deepened foundations, slopes 3:1 (H:V) or steeper, swimming pool, or retaining walls over 6 feet in height.
Can I install a stormwater infiltration system in a lot within a Hillside Grading Area?
In general, infiltration is not allowed within a Hillside Grading Area. However, consideration can be given for properties where slopes won't be impacted.
Can I install a stormwater infiltration system in a lot within a potentially liquefiable hazard zone?
In general, infiltration is not allowed within a potentially liquefiable hazard zone. However, sites within a potentially liquefiable zone can be considered for infiltration if a soils report demonstrates that the site is not subject to liquefaction.
Can you recommend a consultant to prepare a fault investigation report?
The Department does not recommend or endorse consultants. The Department does maintain a roster of approved testing agencies on the web site, which contains soil laboratories and geotechnical companies.
Can you recommend a consultant to prepare a soils, geology or soils and geology report?
The Department does not recommend or endorse consultants. The Department does maintain a roster of approved testing agencies on the web site, which contains soil laboratories and geotechnical companies.
Do I need a grading permit for my project?
A grading permit may be required depending on the scope of the project. Permits are almost always required in the Hillside Grading Area. Please contact the Grading Division.
Do I need a soils report for a subdivision?
A soils/geology report for a subdivision is generally required in hillside areas and seismic hazard zones. See Information Bulletin P/BC 2023-132.
