ADU Permit Fees & Costs in Los Angeles, California
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Los Angeles, California — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $4,500 – $14,025
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Los Angeles directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$4,500 – $14,025
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee[1][2] Los Angeles is national leader in ADU permitting. AB 68 and SB 13 streamline state requirements and limit processing times. Fees based on valuation. | $3,000 – $8,500 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $1,500 – $5,525 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $4,500 – $14,025 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Los Angeles before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
Generate your permit packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Los Angeles, California — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $1,500–$8,500 estimated total
- Step-by-step LADBS portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
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Required Documents
Los Angeles requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Los Angeles building permit application. LA is national leader in ADU permitting with SB 13, AB 68, AB 881 streamlining.
Architectural Plans
Architectural plans prepared by California licensed architect with ADU-specific requirements per LA Building Code
Site Plan
Site plan showing property boundaries, setbacks, building footprint, parking, utilities, and lot coverage
Structural Design and Calculations
Structural design sealed by California licensed structural engineer
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Plans
MEP plans showing water, sewer, electric, gas connections with separate metering specifications
Title 24 and CALGreen Compliance
California Title 24 energy code and CALGreen sustainability compliance documentation
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through LADBS.
- 1
Pre-Design Meeting
Consult with LADBS to confirm ADU eligibility and applicable requirements under state and local law
- 2
Online Permit Submission
Submit building permit application and all design documents through LADBS online portal
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Design and Calculations, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Plans, Title 24 and CALGreen Compliance
- 3
Plan Examination
LADBS examines plans for compliance with California Building Code and Los Angeles Municipal Code ADU provisions
- 4
Corrections and Resubmittals
Address examiner comments and submit revised plans if necessary
- 5
Permit Approval and Fee Payment
Final approval and payment of permit fees. SB 13 limits certain ADU fees.
- 6
Construction with Inspections
Execute construction with LADBS inspections at foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and final stages
- 7
Final Approval and Occupancy
Final inspection approval and Certificate of Occupancy for ADU
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Los Angeles?
- Yes. Los Angeles requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Los Angeles?
- Processing times in Los Angeles vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 7 steps. Contact Los Angeles Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Los Angeles?
- Los Angeles requires 6 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Plans, Site Plan, Structural Design and Calculations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Los Angeles?
- Building without a permit in Los Angeles can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Los Angeles?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Los Angeles's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Los Angeles?
- ADU permit fees in Los Angeles typically range from $4,500 to $14,025, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Los Angeles.
Related Permits
Other permits in Los Angeles
Ready to apply? Build your submission packet.
Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Los Angeles, California — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
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