Los Angeles Building Permit Search 2026

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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.

Search Permit Records Check Zoning (ZIMAS) LADBS Official Website

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

  1. Open the LADBS Permit & Inspection Report system.
  2. Enter the property street address.
  3. Review all permits issued for the property.
  4. Click a permit number to open detailed information.
  5. 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

  1. Visit LA County Assessor https://assessor.lacounty.gov/
  2. Search the property address
  3. Copy the Assessor Parcel Number
  4. 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

  1. Search the property in the LADBS permit system.
  2. Look for permits without final inspection.
  3. Check permit expiration dates.
  4. Ask seller to close permits before closing.

How to Close an Open Permit

  1. Review inspection history in the LADBS system.
  2. Contact the contractor listed on the permit.
  3. Schedule final inspection.
  4. 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.

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County Permit Smart Tools

Find the Right Permit, Prepare Documents, Plan Inspections & Avoid Permit Mistakes

Use these quick permit tools to understand which permit may apply, how to search permit records, what documents to prepare, which inspections may happen, and which local department usually handles your issue.

Built for permit users Helpful for building permits, remodels, roofing, electrical, plumbing, fences, pools, decks, zoning, and inspection planning.
Educational guidance only Permit rules, fees, forms, inspections, and deadlines must be verified with the official county or city office.
Mobile friendly Designed for phones, tablets, and desktop screens without external scripts, jQuery, or extra plugins.

Permit Type Finder

Select your project type to see the likely permit category, common documents, possible inspections, and the office you may need to contact.

Commercial and rental projects may need extra review, contractor details, or inspections.
Result copied.

Permit Search Method Helper

Search portals work differently by county or city. Choose what information you have and this tool will suggest the best way to search permit records.

Use this to create simple search variations if needed.
Tips copied.

Permit Application Readiness Checklist

Use this checklist before applying online or visiting the building department. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons permit applications are delayed.

Tip: Save PDFs, drawings, contractor licence proof, emails, and receipts in one folder before applying. It makes resubmission and inspection scheduling easier.

Permit Inspection Stage Planner

Select your project type to see common inspection stages and what to prepare before requesting an inspection.

Plan copied.

Correct Department Finder

Select the issue and this tool will show the department that usually handles it. Local names may vary by county or city.

Select an option above to see the usual department.

Unpermitted Work Risk Checker

If work was already done without a permit, use this tool to understand the risk level and next steps before ignoring the issue.

Result copied.
Important: These tools are for educational planning only. They do not replace official building department decisions, permit portals, inspection results, zoning determinations, contractor licensing boards, FEMA/floodplain rules, legal advice, or engineering advice. Always verify permit requirements, fees, forms, inspections, deadlines, and corrective steps with the official county or city office.