Los Angeles Garage Conversion Permit

Los Angeles garage conversion permits are necessary to ensure that your garage conversion project is completed expertly and to the code of the city of Los Angeles.

At ADU Builders, we remain well aware of the most current editions of city legislation, permit requirements, and other legal challenges to guarantee you a safe and secure garage conversion project from start to finish.

So we can help you transform an unused garage into a beautiful, functional living space customized to your preference while observing the building codes and regulations of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Garage Conversion Permit

Garage Conversion Ordinance in Los Angeles

Our experts can guide you through every step to make your garage conversion project successful. The following are some of the requirements:

Building permit requirements

If you are planning to convert your existing garage to a living space, here are some requirements to bear in mind;

  • Windows added need to be energy efficient.
  • Electrical and plumbing system alteration will require additional permits.
  • Garage conversion should not exceed 50% of the home.
  • The garage ADU should have a separate entrance.

Eligibility requirement

Garage ADUs are allowed on properties in residential zones; therefore, to undertake a garage conversion in LA, you must comply with;

  • The garage ADU must be on the same lot as the primary dwelling.
  • The garage ADU cannot be sold separately from the property.
  • The garage conversion layout should be achievable and aligned with the original architectural layout and floor plan of your home.

Setback requirements

Additions and improvements to the garage floor plan must be per the setback requirements, (utmost 4 inches from the rear and side property lines).

If the footprint is not altered, you do not have to meet any setback criteria from the rear and sidelines of the property.

Parking requirements

To prevent disturbance of the cityscape, the property should have at least one parking space anywhere, such as the driveway, when converting the garage.

Renting requirements

You are permitted to rent out the garage ADU without residing on the property or rent both the primary dwelling and ADU but not selling the ADU separately from the primary residence.

Permitting Procedure for ADU

Types of Garage Conversion Permits in Los Angeles

A building permit will be needed for your garage conversion in Los Angeles. Depending on the scope of your project, you may be other types of permits;

Type Purpose
Building Permit For structural modifications, such as framing and other construction works.
Electrical Permit Covers changes or additions to the electrical system, such as wiring, outlets, or lighting.
Plumbing Permit Needed for adding or modifying plumbing fixtures, like sinks, toilets, or showers.
Insulation Permit For adding or upgrading insulation as part of the conversion.
Mechanical Permit If you’re installing or modifying HVAC systems, such as heating or air conditioning units.

Permitting Procedure

Our Los Angeles garage conversions professionals are familiar with the Los Angeles local regulations and can create detailed plans for your garage conversion that meet the necessary criteria and comply with building codes to expedite the process.

Here are the steps for obtaining permits:

  • Determine feasibility: We begin by evaluating whether your garage conversion plans comply with the local regulations, such as the required setbacks, maximum square footage, parking requirements, etc.
  • Create detailed plans: Based on your interests, we create detailed plans for your garage conversion, including accurate measurements, floor plans, electrical and plumbing layouts, structural changes (if any), and any other relevant details to ensure that the plans adhere to the local building codes and regulations.
  • Submit permit application: we submit the completed permit application forms with the required documents to your local building department and inform you of the applicable fees at this stage.
  • Review and approval: we will collaborate with the building department to review your permit application and plans for compliance with the applicable codes and regulations.
  • Permit issuance and inspection: once your permit has been approved and issued by your local building department, we will schedule inspection with your local inspector at various stages of the construction process to ensure that the project meets the required standards during these inspections.
  • Completion and final approval: after completing construction and all inspections have passed successfully, we schedule final inspection with the inspector to confirm if the project complies with the building codes, and issue a certificate of occupancy for your converted garage.

Get Started on Your Dream Garage Conversion

Affix a cozy and elegant living apartment on your property through garage conversion in Los Angeles. Contact us today to execute your vision.

FAQ’s

The validity of a permit for a garage conversion in LA is one year from the date of issue. For instance, a permit shall expire twelve months after the date it was issued if the work has not started. Consequently, the permit expires immediately once the work starts and is discontinued for twelve months.

To renew an expired garage conversion permit, you need to submit a permit renewal application form, updated plans, pay the renewal fee and show project progress to your local building department.

The potential consequences of an illegal garage conversion can include fines, penalties, and legal actions from the city of Los Angeles.

To legalize an existing illegal garage conversion, you will obtain the necessary permits and approval from the Los Angeles building department. It involves submitting plans, paying applicable fees and scheduling with the city inspectors to ensure that your converted unit is up to code.

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