Understanding Permit Fees & Timelines for New Construction in LA

Planning a New Build in Beverly Hills or LA? Know the Cost of Permits Upfront

One of the first surprises many homeowners face when planning a new construction project in Los Angeles is just how much permits and city fees can add to their budget — and how long approvals might take.

Whether you’re building a modern hillside home in Beverly Hills or a family-friendly property in Mar Vista, understanding these costs early can help you avoid major delays or redesigns.

What Permits Cost — And What They Cover

In Los Angeles, new construction permits typically include:

Plan check fees
Building permit fees
Grading and drainage reviews
Fire department plan checks
School district fees (if applicable)
Development impact fees

For a typical single-family home, permit-related costs can range from $15,000 to $40,000+, depending on size, location, and complexity. You can find a full list of standard fees at the City of LA’s fee schedule.

Malibu, Beverly Hills, and unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County may have additional requirements. Beverly Hills, for instance, maintains its own fee structure, available at www.beverlyhills.org.

Timelines Matter Just As Much

While permit costs are important, timelines are often the bigger source of homeowner frustration. Plan check and permitting can take 4 to 9 months depending on:

Location (coastal zones often take longer)
Lot size and zoning overlays
Environmental reviews or discretionary approvals
Staffing levels at local agencies

As our CEO Aaron Weiss says:

“We tell every client: don’t underestimate the permitting process in LA. Even a straightforward project can get stuck in the system. Having the right team makes all the difference in avoiding setbacks.”

Tip: Start With a Feasibility Review

Before finalizing your plans, consider having a feasibility review done with your architect and contractor. This allows you to identify permitting red flags — like slope restrictions or utility access issues — before submitting plans.

Helpful Resources:

LADBS Fee Schedule: www.ladbs.org/fees/fees-summary
Beverly Hills Permit Info: www.beverlyhills.org
LA County Building & Safety: pw.lacounty.gov/bsd/

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