Frequently Asked Questions

Construction Permits and Design Approval FAQ'S

These FAQs (frequently asked questions) provide basic information for homeowners on the required construction permits and design approval for typical minor residential construction projects. This list does not cover all possible scenarios; homeowners are urged to call for further details.

1. Why are permits required?
2. When do I need design approval?
3. Is my house historic?
4. When do I need "plan check" review?
5. What fees apply?
6. Do I need a permit/plan check/design approval for my project?
7. How do I obtain a permit?
8. How can I check if a construction project has a permit?
9. How can I research information on my house?

Why are permits required?

It’s a benefit to the Owner and it’s the law! Construction done with the benefit of inspection by the City’s building inspectors helps insure that work is done in conformance with the minimum requirements of the State Construction Codes. Also, failure to obtain permits in accordance with the City’s Municipal Code can result in fines and penalties against both the owner of the property and the contractor performing the work. The City will also verify that your contractor has a valid state license and any required workers’ compensation insurance. Your home insurance coverage may be affected if you have unpermitted (i.e. illegal) construction. Future potential buyers of your home may be dissuaded if they discover that unpermitted work was performed. (And State law requires that the seller disclose all known unpermitted construction.)

The City’s regulations require design approval for most exterior changes to homes and buildings. These regulations help preserve South Pasadena’s unique charm and ensure that property values are protected, especially for the many historic homes in the city. The approval process ranges from staff approval to a public hearing, depending on the extent and nature of the work.

a. Staff approval is for “like-for-like” changes (using the same materials as the existing). This is typically done over-the-counter. There is no charge for this service. b. _A “Chair Review” is a review and approval of the project by the chair of the Design Review Board (non-historic homes) or Cultural Heritage Commission (historic homes) of minor projects.

When do I need design approval?
The criteria for design review approval are listed in the South Pasadena Municipal Code (refer to Section 36.410.040[D])

The required materials for a Chair Review can be found here. (PDF)
This process typically takes seven to 10 days (but may be less, depending on when the required materials are submitted). There is no charge for this service.

Changes beyond the scope of staff or Chair Review require a public hearing before the Design Review Board, the Cultural Heritage Commission, or the Planning Commission. Please contact the Planning and Building department for details.

Is my house historic?
The City has approximately 2,500 properties listed on the Cultural Heritage Inventory, which was established in 1994. Most homes that are 50 years or older are listed. Please contact the Planning and Building department to check if your house is listed. Historic designation only affects exterior changes made to the home. It does not necessarily preclude changes, additions, etc.; but all such work must be in accord with the City’s standards and guidelines to ensure that the historic integrity of the home and the surrounding neighborhood is maintained.

When do I need “plan check” review?
Plan Check is the process by which the City reviews the project plans for conformance with the California Construction Codes (building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, etc.). Smaller projects are generally reviewed and approved “over the counter” (provided that the submitted drawings, plans, etc. have sufficient detail). This service is available from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Some work that requires a permit may not require plan check. More complicated minor projects require a formal plan review; typical turnaround time is one to two weeks. Building Department plan review fees are based on the project’s valuation. The Fire Department collects a $75 fee for review, when required.
Some LARUCP (Los Angeles Regional Uniform Code Program) “standardized plans” are accepted for minor projects. Please check with the Building department for details.

What fees apply?
Plan Check. Depends on the cost of the project. A minimum fee of $78.60 applies. Fire Department fees may also apply (minimum fee is $35.00).

Design Review Board/Cultural Heritage Commission:
Please check with the Planning Division regarding the process.

Permit Fees. Depends on the cost of the project. Please call the Building department for details

Business Licenses. Contractors and subcontractors must have a business license to work in the city.

Payment methods: Cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, Discovery, Amex.

Do I need a permit/plan check/design approval for my project?
The tables below provide general information only. Please contact the Planning and Building department for specific details on your project. 

How do I obtain a permit?

a. Permits must be obtained by clicking on the following link  Building Division Permit Applications and emailing the completed application to permittech@southpasadenaca.gov

b. Virtual Plan Check hours are 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday and Wednesday by appointment only.

c. Two sets of construction plans are usually required for plan check. Additions, new structures, and solar panels require three sets. Please call the Building department if you have any questions as to what materials are required.

d. For projects that require no design approval or staff approval and require no plan check or over-the-counter plan check, permits can usually be issued in an hour or so. Projects requiring Chair Reviews or more detailed plan check will take longer.

How can I check if a construction project has a permit?

Permits for active construction projects in the City can be viewed here.(PDF)

Note: This list is updated on Friday afternoons, so may not reflect all current projects. If you suspect that work is occurring without a permit, please call the Building Division.