Los Angeles Building Permit Search
Learn how to search building permits, inspection reports, zoning information, and construction records for properties in Los Angeles using official LADBS resources.
Official Los Angeles Permit Search Tools
These are the main government systems used to research building permits.
- Permit & Inspection Report https://www.ladbsservices2.lacity.org/onlineservices/?service=plr
- Los Angeles Zoning Information System (ZIMAS) https://zimas.lacity.org/
- LADBS Department Website https://dbs.lacity.gov/
- LA County Assessor Property Lookup https://assessor.lacounty.gov/
Step-by-Step: How to Search Building Permits in Los Angeles
- Open the LADBS Permit & Inspection Report system.
- Enter the property street address.
- Review all permits issued for the property.
- Click a permit number to open detailed information.
- Check inspection reports and permit status.
Local Tip: Use APN If Address Search Fails
Some permit records are indexed using the Assessor Parcel Number instead of the address.
How to find the APN
- Visit LA County Assessor https://assessor.lacounty.gov/
- Search the property address
- Copy the Assessor Parcel Number
- Use that number in the LADBS permit search system
This often reveals older permit records not visible in normal address searches.
LADBS Permit Status Codes Explained
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Issued | Permit approved and construction may begin. |
| Plan Check | Plans under review by city engineers. |
| Finaled | All inspections completed successfully. |
| Expired | Permit expired due to inactivity. |
Inspection Result Codes (Common LADBS Codes)
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| AP | Approved |
| PA | Partially Approved |
| CO | Correction Required |
| NA | Inspector could not access site |
How to Check for Open Permits Before Buying Property
Open permits can delay mortgage approvals or property sales.
Steps
- Search the property in the LADBS permit system.
- Look for permits without final inspection.
- Check permit expiration dates.
- Ask seller to close permits before closing.
How to Close an Open Permit
- Review inspection history in the LADBS system.
- Contact the contractor listed on the permit.
- Schedule final inspection.
- Complete required corrections.
Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety Offices
Metro Office
201 N Figueroa St Los Angeles, CA 90012 Phone: 213-473-3231
Van Nuys Office
6262 Van Nuys Blvd Van Nuys, CA 91401
Local Permit Insights for Contractors
- Most residential permits require plan check approval.
- Solar permits are often processed faster using LADBS online systems.
- Inspections are usually scheduled within 1-3 business days.
- Expired permits may require re-inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search Los Angeles building permits?
Use the LADBS Permit & Inspection Report system and enter the property address.
Why can’t I find permit records?
Some permits are stored using the APN instead of the street address.
Can open permits delay home sales?
Yes. Open permits may delay real estate transactions until inspections are completed.