A few months into your remodel, you finally get an email from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). You open it, expecting approval — but instead, it’s a “Correction Notice.”
Don’t panic. A correction notice doesn’t mean rejection. It simply means your plans need a few fixes before the city can issue your permit.
If you’re building an ADU, adding a second story, or doing tenant improvements, these comments are common. They’re the city’s way of checking your plans for accuracy, safety, and code compliance.
In this guide, we’ll explain what LADBS correction notices mean, how to read them, and what steps to take next. You’ll also see examples, timelines, and a few helpful tips from our consulting experience in Los Angeles.
What Is a Plan Check Correction Notice?
A Plan Check Correction Notice is a written list of comments from an LADBS plan reviewer. It outlines changes, clarifications, or documents you must provide before your building permit can be approved.
Think of it as a feedback sheet — not a failure notice. The city reviewer is essentially saying, “We need a few more details before signing off.”
Common LADBS Correction Themes (By Frequency)
Based on internal JDJ Consulting data and LADBS public correction records, these are the most common reasons correction notices are issued during plan check reviews.
| Correction Type | Frequency (%) |
|---|---|
| Missing Plan Details | 28% |
| Zoning & Setback Issues | 22% |
| Structural Calculations | 18% |
| Energy (Title 24) Forms | 17% |
| Drainage / Civil Details | 15% |
📊 Data Source: LADBS Plan Check Guidelines & JDJ Consulting internal analysis.
What’s Inside a Correction Notice
A typical correction notice includes:
- The plan check or application number
- The date and department reviewer’s name
- Each correction item, numbered and grouped by discipline (e.g., structural, zoning, electrical)
- Code references (L.A. Building Code or specific municipal sections)
- Notes about required attachments, stamps, or calculations
Here’s a quick look at what a sample correction section might contain:
| Section | Example Description | Why It Matters |
| Correction No. 3 | “Provide updated structural calculations stamped by a licensed engineer.” | Ensures your design meets load-bearing and safety standards. |
| Correction No. 5 | “Clarify zoning setback on Sheet A2.0.” | Confirms your project complies with property boundary rules. |
| Correction No. 7 | “Submit energy compliance form CF1R for review.” | Verifies energy efficiency compliance before approval. |
Each item will refer to a page, sheet, or section of your plan set. The goal is to help you locate and correct specific issues — not to start over.
Types of Plan Check Reviews and Why They Matter
Not all plan checks are the same. LADBS uses different review levels depending on your project’s complexity, size, and scope. Understanding these types helps you predict the timeline and level of detail expected.
1. Counter Plan Check
A Counter Plan Check is the fastest route. It’s often used for small residential remodels, simple tenant improvements, or projects with limited structural changes.
You can usually meet the reviewer in person (or online), get feedback, and make minor corrections the same day. However, it’s only available for projects that meet LADBS’s “simple scope” criteria.
Common examples:
- Kitchen or bathroom remodels
- Non-structural interior changes
- Small additions under 1,000 square feet
2. Regular Plan Check
A Regular Plan Check applies to most new constructions, additions, and major remodels. It involves multiple departments reviewing your drawings separately — structural, zoning, mechanical, and electrical.
Expect to receive correction comments from several reviewers. This process can take a few weeks per review cycle.
You’ll likely face:
- Separate correction lists for each department
- Coordination between your designer and engineer
- Resubmittals through the LADBS online portal
3. Expanded or Supplemental Plan Check
Some projects require specialty reviews. These include hillside homes, multi-unit developments, or commercial buildings with fire, flood, or grading concerns.
In these cases, LADBS might forward your plans to other agencies such as:
- LA Fire Department (LAFD) – for fire safety and access requirements
- Bureau of Engineering (BOE) – for drainage, street alignment, or sewer approval
- Public Works or Sanitation – for utility and environmental checks
You’ll receive corrections from each agency as they complete their review. This can extend the process but ensures every safety requirement is met.
| Plan Check Type | Project Examples | Average Review Time | Departments Involved |
| Counter Plan Check | Kitchen remodel, interior TI | 1–3 days | 1–2 reviewers |
| Regular Plan Check | Home addition, ADU, new house | 3–6 weeks | 3–5 reviewers |
| Expanded Plan Check | Hillside home, multi-unit, commercial | 6–10 weeks | 5+ reviewers and outside agencies |
Understanding your plan check type helps you set realistic expectations. It also determines how soon you’ll receive a correction notice and how many departments will be involved.
How to Read Each Part of a Correction Notice
When the notice arrives, it might look intimidating — several pages, tables, and code citations. But every correction sheet follows a predictable format. Once you understand the sections, you’ll realize it’s more organized than it looks.
1. Header Information
At the top, you’ll see administrative details:
- Plan Check or Application Number
- Address of the project
- Reviewer’s department and contact info
- Date of the correction notice
Keep these details handy. You’ll need them for resubmittals, phone calls, and status tracking.
2. Correction Number and Description
Each correction is numbered for easy reference. The reviewer lists a brief description, often followed by a specific code section.
Example:
“Correction No. 4 – Update foundation details per LABC Section 1808.” This tells you exactly what needs to be fixed and which rule it’s tied to. You can respond by referencing the same number in your reply letter.
3. Department or Discipline
Each correction belongs to a department:
- Zoning – setbacks, height, and use
- Structural – load, foundation, framing
- Electrical – outlet spacing, service panels
- Mechanical/Plumbing – ventilation, fixtures, energy forms
If you have multiple departments, you’ll get multiple sets of comments. Don’t mix them — keep separate response files for each discipline.
4. Required Attachments or Clearances
Some corrections request supporting documents, such as:
- Revised plan sheets
- Calculations from an engineer
- Product specifications
- Proof of clearance from other agencies
Attach only what the reviewer requests. Extra documents may slow down the process or confuse the file sequence.
LADBS Plan Check Flow — From Submittal to Final Permit
Every building permit in Los Angeles goes through several LADBS review stages. This flowchart shows how your plans move through the system before approval.
- Plan Submittal: Your plans are uploaded to the LADBS system for intake review.
- Initial Plan Check: A plan examiner reviews drawings for compliance.
- Correction Notice: Comments or deficiencies are issued for revisions.
- Resubmittal & Recheck: Updated plans are re-evaluated by the same examiner.
- Final Approval: Once corrections are cleared, the permit is issued.
🔍 Data Source: LADBS Plan Check Workflow, JDJ Consulting permit expediting experience.
Common LADBS Correction Themes — What You’ll See Most Often
If you’ve received a correction notice from LADBS, you’re not alone. Most homeowners face similar comments during the plan check stage. The good news is that these issues are predictable — and preventable.
Here are the most common themes our clients encounter when submitting building plans in Los Angeles:
1. Missing or Incomplete Plan Details
Many correction items relate to small omissions. Reviewers often find:
- Missing dimensions or elevations
- Unclear wall sections or framing details
- Inconsistent notes between sheets
- Missing sheet references in construction drawings
Even small details can hold up your approval. Reviewers need accurate drawings to verify that every component meets code.
2. Zoning and Setback Issues
Zoning corrections are among the most frequent. Typical comments include:
- “Clarify front setback measurement on Sheet A1.0.”
- “Confirm lot coverage per LAMC Section 12.21.”
- “Verify parking layout and driveway width.”
Zoning staff make sure your project fits within property limits and neighborhood guidelines.
3. Structural Calculations or Engineer Stamps
If your project adds square footage or changes load paths, LADBS will likely request:
- Updated structural calculations
- Stamps from a licensed civil or structural engineer
- Revised foundation or framing details
These checks ensure safety and code compliance before construction begins.
4. Energy and Green Building Forms
Los Angeles follows California Title 24 and Green Building Standards. If your plans omit required energy forms, you’ll see comments such as:
- “Submit CF1R and MF1R forms for review.”
- “Provide insulation R-values on wall sections.”
Be sure your designer or energy consultant completes these before resubmitting.
5. Site, Drainage, and Civil Details
Drainage, grading, or slope details often appear in corrections. You may need to provide:
- Updated grading plan with contour lines
- Proof of existing and proposed elevations
- Drainage notes or stormwater compliance sheets
For hillside or flood zone lots, these corrections can trigger additional reviews from the Bureau of Engineering.
| Correction Type | Typical Request | Department Involved | Fix Required Before Permit? |
| Zoning Setbacks | Clarify property boundaries and open yard area | Zoning / Planning | Yes |
| Structural Details | Provide revised foundation and framing drawings | Structural | Yes |
| Energy Compliance | Attach CF1R, MF1R, and insulation specs | Mechanical / Energy | Yes |
| Site Drainage | Add grading or runoff details | Civil / BOE | Often |
| Accessibility | Confirm ramp slope and door clearance | Building / ADA | Yes |
By recognizing these recurring themes, you’ll save time and minimize back-and-forth communication with LADBS reviewers.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare a Response to a Correction Notice
Once you’ve read the notice, the next step is to prepare a clean, professional response. Treat this as a checklist exercise — not a guessing game. A well-organized reply helps reviewers process your resubmittal faster.
Here’s the step-by-step approach our consultants recommend for every LADBS correction notice.
Step 1 — Read and Map Comments
Start by reading the entire notice carefully. Don’t skip around — corrections often refer to each other. Write down each correction number, department, and page reference.
A simple tracking sheet works best. You can use Excel, Google Sheets, or even paper.
Include these columns:
- Correction Number
- Department (e.g., Zoning, Structural)
- Page or Sheet Reference
- Action Needed (Revise, Clarify, Add Form)
- Status (Pending / Completed)
This organization helps you track progress and prevents duplicate work.
Step 2 — Confirm What’s Required
Not every comment needs a complete redraw. Some are clarifications, while others need technical updates.
Here’s how to sort them:
- Clarification Only: You can answer in writing or add a small note on the plan.
- Example: “Dimension added on Sheet A2.1.”
- Revision Needed: You’ll have to update the plan drawing or layout.
- Example: “Revised footing detail on S3.0 per LABC Section 1809.”
- Additional Document: Prepare calculations, specifications, or forms.
- Example: “Attached updated CF1R Energy Form.”
If a correction seems unclear, note its line number and ask your designer or engineer to interpret before contacting LADBS.
Step 3 — Revise Plans and Prepare a Response Letter
After you understand what’s needed, start revising the plan set. Every change should be visually clear.
Follow these best practices:
- Cloud all revised areas on each sheet
- Add a new revision number and date
- Highlight important text changes with a marker or digital annotation
- Keep changes consistent across all sheets
Next, write a Response Letter that addresses each correction in order. Number your replies to match the LADBS correction numbers.
Example Format:
| Correction No. | Reviewer Comment | Response |
| 4 | “Update window height per LABC 2403.2.” | “Revised Sheet A4.1 to show updated window sill at 44 inches.” |
| 7 | “Provide CF1R energy form.” | “Attached CF1R form signed by energy consultant.” |
| 10 | “Clarify lot coverage.” | “Adjusted site plan (A1.0) and provided updated lot coverage table.” |
Keep your tone factual and polite. Avoid defensive wording — LADBS reviewers appreciate organized, direct answers.
Step 4 — Obtain Required Stamps and Clearances
Some corrections require you to get sign-offs from other city departments before LADBS approves your plans.
These may include:
- Bureau of Engineering (BOE): for grading, sewer, or street alignment
- Fire Department (LAFD): for access, hydrant, or fire lane compliance
- Public Works: for drainage or environmental review
- Housing Department: for conversions or rental inspections
Each clearance agency issues a separate form or stamp. Attach proof of clearance with your revised plans before resubmitting.
Tip: Always check the LADBS portal to confirm whether a clearance is listed as “Pending” or “Approved.”
Step 5 — Resubmission: Where and How
Once all revisions are ready, submit them through ePlanLA or PermitLA, depending on your project type.
Follow these submission basics:
- Upload PDFs with consistent file names (e.g., “A1.0_SitePlan_Rev2.pdf”)
- Include your Response Letter in the same upload
- Use the same project number and contact email
- Check for upload confirmation
After resubmission, LADBS will assign your plans to the same reviewer for the next round. If your responses are complete, most projects clear corrections within one or two cycles.
Quick Quiz — How Well Do You Understand LADBS Plan Checks?
Test your knowledge about LADBS correction notices and plan check procedures. See how ready you are to handle a correction notice like a pro.
💡 Tip: Need help with your next plan check? Book a free consultation with JDJ Consulting today.
Timelines, Fees, and What Slows Approvals
After submitting your first plan set, most homeowners expect a quick turnaround. But LADBS reviews can take longer than expected, especially for complex projects. Knowing what affects your approval timeline helps you plan your schedule and avoid unnecessary fees.
Typical Review Timelines
Plan check times vary by project type and department load. Here’s a general overview based on our clients’ recent projects across Los Angeles:
| Plan Check Type | First Review | Correction Cycle | Final Approval |
| Counter Plan Check | 1–3 business days | Same day for small revisions | 1–5 days total |
| Regular Plan Check | 3–6 weeks | 1–3 weeks per resubmittal | 6–10 weeks total |
| Expanded Plan Check | 6–10 weeks | 2–4 weeks per resubmittal | 12+ weeks total |
Note: These are averages. Timelines can stretch if additional agencies get involved or if the reviewer requests more documentation.
What Can Delay Your Approval
Several common mistakes can slow the plan check process:
- Submitting incomplete or uncoordinated plans
- Missing engineer or architect stamps
- Failing to attach energy or drainage forms
- Delayed responses to emails from reviewers
- Unpaid recheck or resubmittal fees
Even small oversights — like forgetting a signature or title block — can restart the review clock.
Fees and Recheck Costs
LADBS charges a recheck fee after each resubmittal. The amount depends on project size and valuation. Typically, the resubmittal fee ranges between 25% to 50% of the original plan check fee.
If you want to expedite review, LADBS offers an “Expedited Plan Check” option. It usually costs about 50% more, but it can cut your review time nearly in half.
Smart Ways to Avoid Delays
- Double-check your forms before each submittal.
- Combine all correction responses in one upload, not separate emails.
- Use consistent file naming for each drawing sheet.
- Reply promptly to reviewer messages.
- Keep copies of your previous correction cycles — reviewers often refer to them.
These habits not only shorten approval times but also show LADBS reviewers that your submittal is complete and professional.
Example Responses
Seeing real examples helps clarify how to structure your own responses. Below are a few common LADBS correction types and sample replies that work well. These are short, clear, and respectful — just what reviewers prefer.
Example 1 — Zoning Setback Clarification
Correction:
“Clarify rear setback dimension and label open yard area on Sheet A1.0 per LAMC 12.21.”
Response:
“Rear setback dimension added and labeled on Site Plan (Sheet A1.0). Updated open yard area table showing compliance with LAMC 12.21 now included.”
What Works:
- Directly references the sheet updated
- Cites the code section for context
- Shows that the requirement is met
Example 2 — Structural Calculation Request
Correction:
“Provide lateral load calculations for new second-story framing per LABC Section 2305.”
Response:
“Attached structural calculations prepared and stamped by licensed structural engineer (PE #XXXX). Revised Sheet S2.1 reflects updated shear wall design.”
What Works:
- Lists the attachment and engineer’s role
- Specifies the revised sheet number
- Uses plain language without filler words
Example 3 — Energy Form Compliance
Correction:
“Submit CF1R and MF1R forms for energy compliance review.”
Response:
“Completed CF1R and MF1R forms attached with signatures from energy consultants. Updated wall insulation values on Sheets A4.0 and A4.1 per approved documentation.”
What Works:
- Mentions the specific attachments
- Points to the sheets that include updates
- Keeps tone neutral and factual
Example 4 — Drainage and Grading Detail
Correction:
“Provide a site grading plan and confirm surface runoff direction.”
Response:
“Added grading and contour lines to Sheet C1.0. Drainage arrows and flow notes now shown. Civil engineer verified slope direction per LAMC 106.3.3.”
What Works:
- Uses precise, concise language
- Describes the fix without technical jargon
- Cites the plan sheet for verification
Example 5 — Accessibility Compliance
Correction:
“Confirm minimum ramp slope and handrail dimensions per CBC 11B-405.”
Response:
“Updated ramp detail on Sheet A5.2 showing 1:12 slope and compliant handrail dimensions. Detail cross-referenced in door schedule.”
What Works:
- Shows understanding of code section
- Demonstrates compliance with specific figures
- Keeps format easy for reviewer to cross-check
🧮 Estimate the Cost Impact of LADBS Correction Delays
Use this calculator to estimate how much a delay caused by LADBS corrections could cost your project. Enter a few details below and get a quick projection.
💡 Pro Tip: If your LADBS correction notices are causing budget overruns, our consultants can help you resolve them faster.
📅 Schedule a Free Consultation*Estimates are for informational purposes only. Actual costs may vary.
Dealing With Agency Clearances and Third-Party Reviewers
LADBS isn’t the only department reviewing your plans. Depending on your project, you may also need to clear reviews from other city or regional agencies.
This is where most homeowners feel overwhelmed — because these clearances can easily delay a project if you’re not prepared.
Common Agencies That May Need to Sign Off
| Agency Name | Purpose of Review | When Required |
| Bureau of Engineering | Verifies street alignment, sewer connections, and driveways | For any project altering public right-of-way |
| Fire Department (LAFD) | Reviews fire access, hydrant placement, and setbacks | For new construction or large additions |
| Public Works / Sanitation | Checks drainage and waste system connections | For new builds, additions, or ADUs |
| Planning Department | Confirms zoning, height, and use restrictions | For all new projects or property changes |
| Cultural Affairs | Reviews façade design and materials in historic areas | For designated historic properties |
Each agency has its own timeline and checklist. Some approvals can happen online, while others require in-person signatures or separate submittals.
How to Handle Multi-Agency Corrections
When several departments issue comments at once, handle them in a clear order:
- Start with Planning and Zoning — These corrections often affect all others.
- Move to Structural and Grading — Make sure your plan changes don’t conflict.
- Finish with Fire or Public Works — They usually need the updated set.
If you’re unsure which agency to approach first, JDJ Consulting can review your LADBS correction notice and create a response order for you. That prevents wasted time and duplicate resubmittals.
Third-Party Reviewers and External Consultants
LADBS sometimes uses outside reviewers for specialized tasks — for example, energy calculations, soils reports, or traffic studies. These consultants review your documents independently but follow city standards.
If you receive a correction from one, always:
- Request a written list of what’s missing.
- Ask whether updates must go back through LADBS or only to the reviewer.
- Keep a copy of all correspondence for your resubmittal package.
It’s a small detail, but missing third-party responses is a major cause of plan check delays.
Helpful Tip
If your project requires multiple clearances, LADBS’s online “Clearances Summary” page can show which agencies still need to sign off. Always check that before resubmitting — it helps you avoid uploading incomplete documents.
If You’re Stuck: Requests, Revisions, and Appeals
Sometimes, even after several correction rounds, your plans might stall. That doesn’t always mean your design is wrong — it might just need a formal clarification or policy interpretation.
The city provides a few ways to move forward if you disagree with or don’t understand a comment.
1. Request for Modification (RFM)
An RFM allows you to propose an alternative design that still meets the intent of the code. For example, if your property’s shape makes it impossible to meet a setback requirement, you can submit an RFM explaining your design logic.
Tips for Strong RFMs:
- Reference the exact code section.
- Include technical justification or equivalent safety measures.
- Provide clear diagrams showing compliance intent.
An RFM doesn’t guarantee approval, but it opens the door to a practical solution.
2. Plan Revision
If your design changes significantly after the correction notice, you may need a Plan Revision instead of a simple resubmittal.
Revisions often apply to:
- Layout changes
- Structural redesigns
- Scope expansions like new decks or basements
LADBS treats major revisions as new submittals, meaning extra fees and review time. Before you proceed, discuss with your consultant whether it’s better to revise or request clarification.
3. Appeal Process
If you believe a correction was issued in error, you can file an appeal. This process involves:
- Submitting an appeal form to LADBS within 30 days of the correction.
- Providing evidence such as code references, stamped reports, or precedent approvals.
- Attending a hearing where a senior plan checker or board reviews your case.
Appeals can be technical and time-consuming, but they’re useful when a reviewer’s interpretation conflicts with the code or prior approvals.
When to Get Expert Help
If you’ve gone through more than two correction cycles without approval, it’s time to bring in a professional plan checker or permit consultant. At JDJ Consulting, we help homeowners organize responses, coordinate with city reviewers, and clear multi-agency comments efficiently.
Sometimes, just one well-written response package can get your plans approved after months of delay.
What Happens After Approval
Once your plans are approved, it’s easy to think the hard part is over. But the approval only means your drawings are cleared for permit issuance — not that you can start building immediately.
There are a few final steps before construction begins.
Step 1: Pay the Permit Fees
LADBS will issue a permit fee invoice after your plan check is approved. The amount depends on your project’s valuation, size, and construction type.
| Project Type | Estimated Range (USD) |
| Small Remodel or TI | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Single-Family Addition | $3,000–$6,000 |
| New Construction or Multi-Unit | $7,000+ |
You can pay these fees online through LADBS ePlanLA or in person at the public counter. Always keep a copy of your receipt — you’ll need it when scheduling inspections.
Step 2: Permit Issuance
Once payment is processed, you’ll receive your Building Permit Record (BPR). This document officially authorizes construction. Print and post it at the job site before beginning any work.
If your project includes electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, you’ll receive separate trade permits as part of the package. Each trade may have its own inspection schedule, so keep those documents organized.
Step 3: Inspections
During construction, LADBS inspectors will visit your site at key stages:
- Foundation and footing check
- Framing and rough utilities
- Insulation and drywall
- Final completion
Each inspection must pass before you move on to the next phase. If corrections are needed, inspectors will issue an Inspection Correction Notice — a short list of items to fix before reinspection.
Step 4: Certificate of Occupancy (CofO)
For new buildings or major remodels, you’ll need a Certificate of Occupancy. This confirms your structure is safe and compliant for use. Once you’ve passed all final inspections, LADBS will automatically generate the certificate in your online account.
Final Thoughts: Stay Organized and Communicate
Reading and responding to LADBS correction notices can feel tedious, but it’s a vital step toward getting your project approved. The most successful homeowners and builders treat it like a collaboration, not a confrontation.
Keep Everything Documented
Every version of your plans, correction notices, and response letters should be saved in a dedicated project folder.
Label your files clearly — for example:
- A1.0_SitePlan_Rev2.pdf
- Correction_Response_JDJ_Consulting.pdf
This small habit helps city reviewers follow your updates and reduces back-and-forth questions.
Communicate Early and Often
If you’re unsure about a comment, reach out to your plan checker before resubmitting. A short clarification email can save you another full correction cycle.
Reviewers appreciate clear communication. When they see that you’ve taken time to understand and properly address their comments, they’re more likely to expedite your next review.
Work With Experienced Professionals
Many homeowners underestimate how complex LADBS review cycles can become. Between zoning checks, energy reports, and multi-agency clearances, even small projects can turn into long backlogs.
That’s where professional guidance makes a difference. At JDJ Consulting, our team helps you:
- Review correction notices line by line
- Coordinate with LADBS reviewers and agencies
- Prepare complete, professional resubmittals
- Track approval timelines until permit issuance
🏗️ LADBS Correction Flow — From Notice to Approval
Here’s how a typical LADBS correction notice moves through the review and response process. Each step matters to keep your permit on track. Follow this sequence for smoother approvals.
1️⃣ Receive Correction Notice
LADBS sends your plan check comments or corrections after review. Review each note carefully before responding.
2️⃣ Review Plan Check Comments
Identify technical or code-related issues. Some may need input from your architect or engineer.
3️⃣ Consult with a Permit Specialist
Our experts at JDJ Consulting can help interpret complex LADBS notes and guide your response strategy.
4️⃣ Revise and Resubmit Plans
Update your drawings or documents per the correction comments and upload them to LADBS for recheck.
5️⃣ Approval and Permit Issuance
Once all corrections are cleared, LADBS approves your plans and issues your building permit.
📝 Source: Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) – Plan Check Process
📞 Book a Free LADBS ConsultationConclusion
Getting through LADBS corrections isn’t about speed — it’s about accuracy and organization. Each clear, respectful response brings your project one step closer to approval.
If you take the time to understand the comments, respond thoughtfully, and stay in touch with reviewers, you’ll move from “pending” to “approved” faster than most first-time applicants.
If you’ve received a correction notice from LADBS and aren’t sure where to start, JDJ Consulting Group can help.
Our team works daily with Los Angeles homeowners, architects, and contractors to prepare precise correction responses and manage plan check coordination from start to finish.
Ready to resolve your LADBS correction notice or permit delays? JDJ Consulting Group can help. Our team specializes in permit expediting, zoning consulting, and plan check support across Los Angeles. Let’s make your next project approval fast and stress-free.
Call us today: (818) 793-5058
Visit us: 12925 Riverside Dr Suite 302, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Email: sales@jdj-consulting.com
Book your free consultation: https://jdj-consulting.com/book-consultation/
FAQs: How to Read LADBS Correction Notices
What is an LADBS correction notice?
An LADBS correction notice is a list of comments issued by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety during plan review. It outlines what’s missing or incorrect in your submitted plans. Each item must be addressed before your permit can be approved. Think of it as a detailed checklist to help bring your drawings into full code compliance.
Why did I receive a correction notice from LADBS?
You received a correction notice because your plan check reviewer found issues that don’t comply with building codes, zoning rules, or submission requirements. Common reasons include:
- Missing engineer or architect stamps
- Incomplete energy forms
- Incorrect setback or height details
- Missing drainage or grading note
These are normal and part of the review process — not necessarily a rejection.
How do I respond to LADBS correction comments?
Each correction should be answered directly and clearly. Include:
- A reference to the sheet or document updated
- A short description of the change
- Any attachments or reports added
Example: “Updated Sheet A1.0 to show rear setback compliance with LAMC 12.21.” Keeping responses short and specific helps the reviewer approve your revisions faster.
How long does it take to clear LADBS corrections?
Timelines depend on your project type and how quickly you respond.
- Small remodels or ADUs: 2–4 weeks after resubmittal
- New construction: 6–10 weeks for final clearance
Delays happen when documents are incomplete or responses aren’t coordinated. Submitting one complete response package instead of multiple small uploads helps reduce review time.
Can I talk directly to my plan checker?
Yes. You can contact your assigned plan checker by email or phone using the information provided on your correction notice. A short, clear message explaining your question often helps resolve confusion quickly. For complex corrections, you can request a virtual or in-person meeting through LADBS’s appointment portal.
What happens if I ignore a correction notice?
Ignoring or delaying responses can put your project on hold indefinitely. LADBS won’t issue a permit until every comment is cleared. In some cases, your plan file may even expire after extended inactivity, forcing you to start a new plan check — which adds time and cost.
What does “Resubmittal Required” mean on a correction notice?
It means your reviewer expects an updated set of drawings or documents addressing all listed comments. You must upload a revised plan set, along with a written correction response sheet, to ePlanLA. LADBS won’t continue reviewing until that resubmittal is complete and uploaded correctly.
How many times can LADBS issue corrections?
There’s no strict limit, but most projects go through two to three correction cycles before approval. Each cycle adds review time, so providing complete, coordinated responses can help you finish faster. If you reach more than three cycles, consider professional plan check assistance to identify recurring issues.
What are the common mistakes homeowners make in plan check responses?
Common issues include:
- Failing to reference sheet numbers
- Uploading incomplete documents
- Overlooking corrections from other departments
- Using unclear or vague language in replies
Taking time to organize responses in one document can prevent repeat comments in the next cycle.
What is an “Expedited Plan Check” in Los Angeles?
The Expedited Plan Check is a paid option that allows homeowners to speed up review time. By paying an additional fee (around 50% more), your plans are prioritized in the queue. While it shortens timelines, all correction and clearance requirements still apply.
How do I check the status of my plan check online?
You can track your plan check status on ePlanLA.lacity.org. Log into your account, open your project dashboard, and view:
- Review status (In Progress, Pending Resubmittal, Approved)
- Assigned plan checker information
- Uploaded correction files
Checking regularly helps you stay on top of reviewer feedback and deadlines.
What agencies besides LADBS may need to approve my plans?
Depending on your project, LADBS might coordinate with:
- Department of City Planning
- Bureau of Engineering
- Fire Department (LAFD)
- Public Works / Sanitation
Each agency reviews for different safety and zoning factors. Missing their approvals can delay permit issuance even if LADBS corrections are cleared.
What is a Request for Modification (RFM)?
An RFM allows you to ask for design flexibility when full code compliance isn’t possible but equivalent safety is maintained. For example, a small lot might not meet standard setbacks. You’ll submit justification, plans, and references to the applicable code section. Approval depends on LADBS evaluation and supporting documentation.
Can LADBS corrections affect my construction schedule?
Yes. You can’t start construction until all corrections are cleared and your building permit is issued. Multiple correction rounds can delay groundbreaking by weeks or months. Submitting clear responses, checking agency clearances early, and consulting a professional can help keep your project timeline realistic.
What are LADBS recheck fees?
Recheck fees are additional charges for reviewing your revised plans. Typically, they range between 25% to 50% of your initial plan check fee, depending on the project’s valuation and size. Paying these promptly helps avoid further delays in review or issuance.
What does “pending clearance” mean on my LADBS portal?
“Pending clearance” means your project still needs approvals from another department or external agency. For example, you might need Fire Department sign-off or Public Works review before LADBS can finalize your permit. You can view which clearances remain through your project’s summary page in ePlanLA.
How do I avoid getting another correction notice?
To minimize repeat corrections:
- Review your notice carefully before resubmitting
- Double-check all referenced sheets
- Confirm that attachments match reviewer requests
- Ensure every department’s comment is addressed
Having an expert review your responses before submission often helps you clear comments in the next cycle.
What if I disagree with a plan checker’s comment?
If you believe a comment misinterprets your design, you can:
- Email your plan checker for clarification
- Submit a Request for Modification (RFM)
- File an appeal with supporting documentation
Appeals require clear reasoning, code citations, and sometimes a hearing, so they’re best prepared with professional support.
How can a consultant help with LADBS corrections?
A permit or zoning consultant can review your notice, organize responses, and communicate with city reviewers on your behalf. They ensure your plans address each comment clearly and meet code requirements. This often saves time and prevents multiple review cycles — especially for complex or multi-agency projects.
