Permit Guide for LA Fire Rebuilds

What you need to submit, and how long it takes — broken down by jurisdiction.

LA County Dept of Regional Planning

Altadena / Unincorporated LA County

→Like-for-like rebuild (same footprint, up to 200 sq ft or 10% larger): eligible for fast-track — approved in 1–3 business days
→Pre-approved standard plans available — significantly reduce design cost and review time
→Self-certification pilot for simple projects: architect certifies code compliance, county reviews administratively
→Bundled Projects Pilot: submit home + ADU in a single application
→2,600+ permits issued as of early 2026; ~3,340 still under review
→Fee waivers available — confirm current status with county

Los Angeles Dept of Building & Safety (LADBS)

→Single-family permits now processing 3× faster than pre-fire baseline
→Average permit wait: ~49 days across all permit types (varies by complexity)
→Permit fees currently waived under Emergency Order No. 7
→Coastal Zone: many Palisades properties require CA Coastal Commission approval — adds weeks to months and restricts height/massing. Check your parcel before designing.
→Commercial Village properties: additional Neighborhood Specific Plan review required

Incomplete applications are the #1 cause of delays. Have everything ready before you submit.

✓Site plan showing lot boundaries, setbacks, and structure footprint
✓Floor plans (all levels) with room labels and dimensions
✓Elevations (all four sides) showing heights and materials
✓Foundation plan (or geotechnical report if on hillside or fill)
✓Energy compliance documentation (Title 24)
✓Fire-hardening compliance checklist (Chapter 7A)
✓Clearance letter from CalRecycle / LA County confirming debris removal complete
✓Proof of property ownership (deed or title)
✓Contractor license number (CSLB) for permit application

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