Los Angeles Apartment Permits
By: Alonso Romero Aug 21, 2025

Los Angeles Apartment Permits

Apartment Permit

Los Angeles is undergoing a new building boom with thousands of rental units constructed throughout the city. Owners of these new apartment buildings – and those thinking about purchasing an existing apartment building will need to ensure that they have all the proper permits in place before tenants move in.

What permits do I need for my apartment building in Los Angeles?

The primary permit you will need is a Certificate of Occupancy. These are obtained through the Los Angeles City’s Department of Building and Safety. The primary reason you need one of these permits is that the city inspectors need to ensure that your building is sound and built or remodeled up to code. That means your property will need to pass inspection before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

The Certificate of Occupancy is required at newly constructed apartments, as well as when the building undergoes significant remodeling. If you are converting a commercial building to a residential building, you will need to apply for the Certificate of Occupancy as well.

Additionally, if you are completing significant renovations or building new construction, you will need to apply for the necessary permits to complete that work.

Why should I hire a permit expeditor for my apartment permit in Los Angeles?

If you want your permits approved quickly and efficiently, hiring a permit expeditor is the way to go. Any time you are navigating the permitting process through the city of Los Angeles, it’s best to hire a professional. The process demands a high attention to detail. You have to ensure that your plans and your construction adhere to building codes and be proactive in communicating with the Department of Building and safety.

Not only that, if you are purchasing an already existing apartment building, most lenders require a Certificate of Occupancy to finalize your purchase. And, because Los Angeles is home to so many vintage apartment buildings, your new apartment building may be subject to limited exceptions in the permitting process, depending on the age of the building.

The permit approval process can be exceedingly challenging. That’s why it’s best to hire a professional permit expeditor to navigate your way through the process. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s one less headache. With over 20 years of experience in permit expediting, our team is ready to tackle your project. Call for a free estimate today.