Breaking Down LADBS Fees and Permit Costs in 2025

If you plan to build, remodel, or add an ADU in Los Angeles, permit costs can be confusing. 

The fees charged by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) change every year, and 2025 brings a few new updates.

You’ve probably heard someone say, “Permits cost a fortune in LA.” That’s not always true.

Some projects pay only a few hundred dollars, while large developments spend thousands just in plan checks and impact fees.

In this guide, we’ll break down what you actually pay for in 2025, how these fees are calculated, and why they matter.

We’ll also show sample fee ranges and clear examples, so you know what to expect before you apply.

Why LADBS Fees Matter (and Who Pays Them)

Permit fees are more than just paperwork costs. They’re what keeps your project legal, inspected, and code-compliant.

In Los Angeles, permit fees are paid by whoever pulls the permit — usually the homeowner, contractor, or developer.

These fees cover the city’s time to review your plans, inspect your site, and make sure your building meets safety standards.

They also help fund public services that depend on safe, code-compliant construction.

Why You Should Care About Them

When you plan your project budget, permit costs can make or break your numbers.

Here’s why they matter:

• They affect your cash flow. You usually pay some fees upfront and the rest before final approval.
• They impact project timing. Missing a payment can delay your plan check or inspection.
• They can reveal compliance issues. High or unexpected fees often mean your plans fall under special reviews or zoning triggers.
• They can be adjusted yearly. LADBS updates its fee schedule based on construction indexes and city budget needs.
• So, while they may seem small compared to total construction costs, they influence everything from financing to timelines.

How the City Calculates Permit Fees: The Basics

Every LADBS fee has a reason behind it. The city doesn’t charge randomly — it uses set formulas and schedules approved by the Los Angeles City Council.

At the simplest level, your permit cost is based on the value of your construction (called the “project valuation”).

This valuation is either declared by the applicant or estimated by LADBS based on the type of work and materials.

Once the value is set, the city applies a percentage or flat fee to calculate different permit categories.

Let’s look at how this works.

1. The Core Fee Formula

Here’s a simplified look at how the base building permit is calculated:

Project Valuation	Typical LADBS Base Fee (2025)	Notes
$0 – $50,000	$200 – $500	Small remodels, minor repairs
$50,001 – $250,000	$500 – $2,000	Medium remodels or ADU conversions
$250,001 – $1,000,000	$2,000 – $6,000+	New homes, additions, tenant improvements
Over $1,000,000	0.8%–1.2% of valuation	Large commercial or multi-family projects

These are general ranges based on typical LADBS valuation tables and city fee adjustments for 2025.

Actual fees can vary depending on plan-check complexity, zoning overlays, and inspection hours.

 

2. Key Fee Categories

LADBS divides its charges into several groups. Each category covers a specific part of the permit process.

Fee Type	Purpose	When You Pay It
Base Permit Fee	Covers processing and issuance	When you submit your application
Plan Check Fee	Covers technical review of drawings	At plan submittal
Inspection Fee	Pays for field inspections	Before or during construction
System Development / Impact Fees	Funds infrastructure like schools or housing	Before final approval
Miscellaneous Fees	Includes records, energy, or fire reviews	Case-by-case

These categories make it easier to see where your money goes — and which parts can change based on your project’s complexity.

3. Adjustments and Indexes

Each year, the city updates fees using construction cost indexes.

In 2025, LADBS adjusted most permit and plan-check fees to match inflation and labor costs.

If your project extends over several months, you might notice small changes in the totals due to mid-year updates.

That’s why it’s smart to check the official LADBS fee schedule or use a calculator like the JDJ Construction Permit Fee Breakdown Tool before submitting your application.

It saves time and keeps your budget accurate.

4. Small Projects vs. Large Developments

Not all projects are treated the same.

• Small Projects (repairs, kitchens, small ADUs) usually pay minimal plan-check and inspection fees.
• Large Projects (multi-family, mixed-use, or commercial) trigger additional reviews, such as environmental, fire, and planning assessments.

Even small differences in valuation can shift you into a new fee tier. That’s why experienced applicants always verify valuation assumptions before filing.

Quick Tip

If you’re unsure about your project valuation, don’t guess. Get an estimate from your contractor or architect, or use an online LADBS fee estimator. Overstating the value means higher fees; understating can cause rechecks or delays later.

Line-by-Line: The Most Common LADBS Fee Components Explained (What Each Actually Covers)

Once you know the basics, the next step is understanding what each LADBS fee actually covers.

This is where most applicants get confused — and where small details can make a big difference in cost.

Let’s go through the major fee types one by one.

1. Base Permit Fee

The base permit fee is your entry ticket.

It covers the city’s cost to process your application, open your project file, and issue the main building permit.

This fee depends on the declared construction value and is the foundation for other related charges.

What it covers:

• File creation and initial review
• Data entry and permit tracking
• Coordination with other departments (Planning, Fire, Public Works)

When you pay: At the time of submission — usually before plan check begins.

Pro Tip:

If you revise plans or add square footage later, you’ll likely pay an additional base fee for that change.

2. Plan Check Fees

Plan check fees are often the largest single cost in the permitting process. They cover the technical review of your drawings — everything from structural safety to zoning compliance.

Depending on the project’s complexity, this fee can range from 60% to 80% of the base permit amount.

What it covers:

• Review of architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans
• Coordination with city engineers or planning staff
• Required corrections and rechecks

When you pay: Usually at submission. Some rechecks later may also trigger smaller additional fees.

Tip: Submitting complete, code-compliant plans the first time helps you avoid recheck fees and long delays.

3. Inspection Fees

Once your permit is approved and construction begins, LADBS assigns inspectors to your project.

Inspection fees cover the cost of those on-site visits.

These visits confirm that your work follows approved plans and city codes.

What it covers:

• Required inspections (foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, etc.)
• Final inspection before Certificate of Occupancy
• Re-inspection fees if something fails and must be checked again

When you pay: Some inspections are pre-paid, while others are billed as the work progresses.

Tip: If you request inspections after hours or outside city schedules, expect additional hourly charges.

4. Impact and Linkage Fees

These are the development-related fees tied to city infrastructure and housing goals. They don’t apply to every project but can add thousands of dollars to larger developments.

Common examples include:

• Affordable Housing Linkage Fee — applied to new housing or conversions in certain zones.
• School Fees — charged by the local district per square foot of new floor area.
• Transportation or Infrastructure Impact Fees — apply to large projects that increase traffic or strain utilities.

Tip: Always verify with the Los Angeles City Planning Fee Estimator or your expeditor if your project location triggers any of these.

5. Miscellaneous and Specialty Fees

Every project is unique. If you’re adding solar panels, installing an elevator, or building on a hillside, you may face special permit fees.

These may include:

• Grading and drainage reviews
• Fire Department plan checks
• Historical resource reviews
• Environmental (CEQA) clearance
• Energy compliance forms (Title 24)

Each of these has its own set rate and approval timeline.

6. Fees You Might Not Expect

Some costs appear later in the process. These “hidden” or secondary fees can surprise new applicants:

• Address assignment or change fees
• Record retrieval fees (for older properties)
• Appeal or modification fees
• Plan resubmittal and printing charges

These can add a few hundred dollars — or more if your project faces multiple reviews.

Example: LADBS Fee Breakdown by Project Type (2025 Estimates)

The following table gives a general snapshot of what typical projects might pay in 2025. These are sample ranges based on LADBS schedules and market experience.

Project Type	Estimated Construction Value	Base Permit Fee	Plan Check Fee	Inspection Fees	Impact / Other Fees	Estimated Total (2025)
Kitchen Remodel	$50,000	$400	$250	$200	$0	$850
ADU Conversion	$150,000	$1,200	$900	$600	$1,000	$3,700
New Single-Family Home	$600,000	$3,000	$2,400	$1,000	$2,500	$8,900
10-Unit Apartment	$2,500,000	$10,000	$8,000	$4,000	$20,000	$42,000
30-Unit Mixed-Use	$5,000,000	$20,000	$16,000	$6,000	$40,000+	$82,000+

These examples are for reference only. Actual costs vary by scope, zoning, and valuation adjustments.

7. Adjustments Over Time

Permit fees change regularly.

The City Council reviews the LADBS fee structure every year, often adjusting for inflation and city staffing costs.

If your project lasts more than a few months, always confirm the latest fee before payment.

Even a small percentage increase can shift your overall budget.

Key Takeaway

Every LADBS fee serves a purpose — but knowing what each covers helps you plan better.

When you understand how plan checks, inspections, and impact fees add up, you can build a realistic timeline and avoid surprises.

Recent 2025 Changes and Temporary Waivers You Need to Know About

Every year, the City of Los Angeles updates its fee structure to reflect new regulations and inflation rates.

In 2025, several important updates and temporary waivers have been introduced that can affect what you actually pay for building permits.

These changes aim to balance city revenue with construction affordability, especially for small residential and housing projects.

1. Annual Fee Adjustments Effective July 2025

Starting July 1, 2025, LADBS and the Department of City Planning adjusted most of their fee schedules. 

This follows the annual Construction Cost Index (CCI), which measures inflation in materials and labor.

What this means in practice:

• Building and plan check fees increased by around 3–5% compared to 2024.
• Inspection fees were slightly revised to reflect new staffing rates.
• Expedited service fees (for same-day or priority reviews) also increased marginally.

These adjustments keep city operations sustainable but can nudge total project costs upward.

If you applied before July and received plan approval afterward, your fees are charged at the new rates, not the old ones.

This is a common surprise for applicants mid-process.

2. Temporary Fee Waivers for Reconstruction Projects

The city introduced temporary fee waivers in early 2025 for properties affected by natural events — such as fires or storm damage.

These waivers cover specific permit categories to help homeowners rebuild faster.

You may qualify if:

• Your property was damaged by a declared local disaster in 2024 or 2025.
• The reconstruction keeps the same footprint and occupancy type.
• You apply within the designated waiver window (usually within one year of the event).

Waived or reduced fees may include:

• Base building permit fees
• Plan check and inspection charges
• Certain environmental or clearance fees

Important: These waivers aren’t automatic. You must provide verification from LADBS or the Office of Emergency Management before submission.

For most property owners, the savings can range from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on project scope.

3. Affordable Housing Fee Adjustments

As part of the city’s housing strategy, the Affordable Housing Linkage Fee (AHLF) also saw revisions in 2025.

The updated rates apply to both residential and commercial developments in specified zones.

The new fee rates are adjusted per square foot, depending on the project’s location and type:

Development Type	Area Type	2024 Rate	2025 Rate	Change
Residential (Low)	Tier 1 Zone	$3.12 / sq. ft.	$3.28 / sq. ft.	+5%
Residential (High)	Tier 3 Zone	$9.75 / sq. ft.	$10.25 / sq. ft.	+5.1%
Commercial	Citywide	$5.26 / sq. ft.	$5.45 / sq. ft.	+3.6%

These changes might seem small, but for a 20,000 sq. ft. development, they can add $10,000 or more in additional costs.

If your building permit was submitted before the effective date, you may still qualify under the 2024 rate.

Always confirm the timestamp on your application receipt to avoid disputes.

4. New Technology and Online Service Fees

LADBS has expanded its online permitting platform for faster digital submissions and plan checks.

To support the system upgrade, a small technology surcharge (usually 2–3%) now applies to most electronic submittals.

You’ll see this fee listed as a “Technology Recovery Charge” or “Online Service Fee” on your permit invoice.

While small, it applies across every plan check and inspection payment — so it adds up for large projects.

5. Waivers and Reductions for Green Building and Energy Efficiency

Projects that meet sustainability benchmarks under LA’s Green Building Code may qualify for limited rebates or fee reductions.

These incentives often apply to:

• Solar panel or EV charging installations
• LEED-certified developments
• Low-impact or water-saving retrofits

While these aren’t blanket discounts, they can offset some inspection or system fees.
You must submit proof of compliance or certification during plan review.

What This Means for You

The key takeaway is simple — permit fees in 2025 are higher overall, but not equally for everyone.

Some homeowners and developers benefit from waivers, while others see minor percentage bumps.

Before you apply:

• Check whether your project qualifies for a waiver.
• Confirm which fee schedule year applies to your submittal.
• Use a current LADBS or JDJ fee calculator for an updated estimate.

Small differences in submission timing or project classification can change your total fees by several thousand dollars.

Quick Recap

• LADBS and Planning raised most fees by 3–5% in mid-2025.
• Reconstruction fee waivers apply to disaster-affected homes.
• Affordable housing linkage fees rose slightly across all zones.
• Tech surcharges now apply to online applications.
• Some green projects can qualify for small rebates.

Final Thought on 2025 Updates

These changes may feel like extra red tape, but they’re part of LA’s broader plan to modernize permitting and improve housing access. The best way to stay ahead is to plan your application early, verify fee schedules, and budget with a little flexibility.

How to Reduce Your LADBS Permit Fees in 2025 (Smart Planning Tips)

Paying less doesn’t always mean cutting corners. It means understanding how the system works — and making choices that lower your total cost without delaying approvals.

Here are smart, practical ways to reduce your LADBS permit expenses in 2025.

1. Submit Early in the Calendar Year

LADBS typically adjusts fees mid-year, often around July. Submitting your application before rate updates can lock in the previous schedule of fees.

Even a small timing difference — say, a June versus August filing — can save hundreds of dollars on plan check and system surcharges.

Pro tip: Ask your project manager or consultant to confirm the current fee cycle before filing.

2. Combine Permits When Possible

If your project includes several scopes (for example, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical), combining them under one consolidated building permit can reduce multiple plan check and inspection fees.

Example: Instead of three separate applications, you file one with combined disciplines — saving time and an average of 10–15% in administrative costs.

However, this works best for smaller or mid-size projects. Larger developments might still need specialized reviews.

3. Go Digital — It Actually Saves You Money

Since LADBS launched more online filing tools, projects using electronic plan submission (EPSS) often move faster. While 2025 introduced a small technology surcharge, the savings come from fewer trips, shorter review times, and less resubmission cost.

You save on:

• Courier fees

• Printing large plan sets

• Delays from incomplete submittals

In short, paying $100 more in tech fees may save you weeks in processing time — which can easily offset that cost.

4. Check for Fee Waivers and Exemptions

Some project types qualify for partial or full fee waivers. These include:

• Affordable housing or low-income ADUs

• Disability accessibility upgrades

• Solar, EV charger, and energy efficiency projects

These programs change each year, so it’s best to verify through the LADBS Fee Schedule (2025) or the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) website.

Tip: JDJ Consulting can check this for you before you apply.

5. Keep Your Plans Error-Free

Every time LADBS sends plans back for correction, it adds more review cycles — which means extra plan check hours and potential re-inspection fees. A clean, complete set of plans from the start can help you avoid that.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Missing structural details

• Unclear floor area calculations

• Incorrect zoning references

• Unlabeled sheets or sections

Even small oversights can trigger costly resubmittals.

6. Verify Your Zoning and Project Type Early

Zoning mismatches cause delays — and delays mean higher costs. Before submitting, confirm that your project type matches zoning allowances in the ZIMAS or Planning Department database.

Example: If you apply for an ADU on a lot that doesn’t meet the SB9 or R2 standards, LADBS might reject the plan after plan check — forcing a resubmission fee.

Early verification = fewer surprises = lower total cost.

7. Work with a Permit Consultant

If your time is valuable, a consultant can often pay for themselves by avoiding costly missteps. They understand how LADBS structures its fees, when adjustments occur, and which exemptions you might qualify for.

At JDJ Consulting, for example, we:

• Break down every cost before submission

• Review your plans for fee triggers

• Handle corrections directly with LADBS staff

• Estimate savings for bundled submittals

It’s not just about saving money — it’s about avoiding months of delay.

Quick Recap Table: Smart Ways to Save

Final Thoughts

Permit fees in Los Angeles are rising — that’s clear. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stay in control. A little preparation, early submission, and smart planning can save thousands while keeping your project on schedule.

If you’re unsure what your total cost might be, try JDJ’s Construction Permit Fee Breakdown Tool — it’s quick, clear, and built for Los Angeles property owners.

Or, reach out to our team for a personalized estimate — so you know what to expect before you apply.

Ready to estimate your LADBS fees?

Use our free calculator or book a quick free consultation with our expert consultants at JDJ Consulting Group. We’ll help you find ways to reduce costs, speed up approvals, and plan smarter in 2025. Call us at (818) 793-5058‬ today!

Check our services here: https://jdj-consulting.com/services/

FAQs: LADBS Fees and Permit Costs in 2025

What are LADBS fees in 2025?

LADBS fees in 2025 refer to the updated charges by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety for permits, plan checks, and inspections.

These include:

• Building Permit Fees – based on project value and square footage

• Plan Check Fees – for design review

• Inspection Fees – per phase of work

Expect a 5–7% average increase over 2024 rates due to system updates and inflation adjustments.

Why did LADBS permit costs increase in 2025?

Permit costs rose because of:

• Updated Construction Cost Index (CCI)

• New technology and online system surcharges

• Rising administrative and inspection costs

The increase ensures LADBS can keep up with digital plan reviews, faster processing times, and higher demand from ADU and multifamily projects.

How do I calculate my LADBS permit cost in 2025?

You can estimate your permit cost using JDJ Consulting’s Construction Permit Fee Breakdown Tool. The calculator considers:

• Project type (residential, ADU, or commercial)

• Construction value

• Plan check and inspection requirements

It provides a realistic total so you can budget accurately before filing.

Are LADBS fees the same for residential and commercial projects?

No. Residential projects usually pay flat or scaled rates, while commercial projects have tiered fees based on use, occupancy, and complexity. For example:

• A home remodel might cost around $2,000–$2,500.

• A 5,000 sq. ft. commercial renovation could exceed $10,000

What does the LADBS plan check fee include?

The plan check fee covers professional review by LADBS engineers and planners. It ensures your plans:

• Meet building, fire, and energy codes

• Comply with zoning requirements

• Include correct structural and accessibility details

Plan check fees vary by square footage and the number of required disciplines (e.g., electrical, mechanical, structural).

What is the LADBS technology surcharge in 2025?

Introduced in 2025, this small surcharge funds LADBS’s online submission and review systems.

• Typically ranges from $40–$250, depending on project size.

• Applies to both residential and commercial filings.

While it adds a small cost, it saves time by speeding up approvals and allowing online plan tracking.

Can I reduce my LADBS permit fees?

Yes. You can save money through:

• Early submission before July fee updates

• Combining multiple scopes under one permit

• Error-free plans that avoid resubmittal

• Checking for fee waivers for affordable housing or solar projects

Working with a permit consultant like JDJ Consulting helps identify these savings early.

Are LADBS permit fees refundable if my project is canceled?

Partially. LADBS may refund unused portions of plan check or inspection fees, but administrative costs are non-refundable. You’ll need to file a refund request form within a specific time frame (usually within 6–12 months of payment).

How are LADBS inspection fees calculated?

Inspection fees depend on:

• The number of inspections required

• Project type (residential or commercial)

• Any re-inspections caused by failed checks

Typically, residential inspections cost $300–$500, while commercial ones can exceed $1,000 for multi-phase work.

Do ADUs have different permit fees in 2025?

Yes. ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) have their own fee structure based on square footage and location. Typical 2025 estimates:

• Detached ADU (800 sq. ft.): $8,000–$8,500 total

• Garage conversion: $3,000–$4,500

ADU fees may also include school and sanitation impact charges.

When do LADBS fees change during the year?

LADBS usually adjusts its fee schedule mid-year, around July 1st. Planning your application before the mid-year increase can lock in the lower rate. Always confirm the current schedule on the official LADBS Fee Page or ask your consultant to verify it before filing.

What factors affect total LADBS permit costs?

Your total cost depends on:

• Construction value

• Project scope and size

• Plan check complexity

• Zoning and site conditions

• Additional agency reviews (Fire, Public Works, DWP)

Each layer adds to the total permit fee.

Can I pay LADBS fees online?

Yes, LADBS offers full online payment options through their EPSS (Electronic Plan Submission System). You can:

• Upload plans digitally

• Track your project status

• Pay fees using credit or electronic transfer

This system is faster, transparent, and reduces in-person visits.

Are there LADBS fee exemptions for affordable housing?

Yes, several. Projects that qualify under affordable or supportive housing programs may receive partial or full waivers. These often apply to:

• Nonprofit or publicly funded developments

• Low-income ADUs

• Accessible housing retrofits

Always check with LADBS or JDJ Consulting before filing to see if your project qualifies.

How can I avoid LADBS re-inspection fees?

To avoid re-inspection costs:

• Schedule inspections only when the work is 100% ready

• Address all prior correction notices

• Keep contractors present during inspection

Failed or incomplete inspections trigger additional fees per visit, so preparation matters.

Do LADBS fees cover all agencies involved in permitting?

Not always. Some projects require additional clearances from agencies like:

• LA Fire Department

• Public Works

• Los Angeles Water & Power (LADWP)

Those agencies bill separately. Always factor those into your full budget when estimating total costs.

How long does LADBS permit approval take in 2025?

Typical timelines:

• Simple remodels: 2–3 weeks

• ADUs: 4–6 weeks

• Commercial projects: 8–12 weeks

Digital filing has reduced average turnaround times, but plan corrections or incomplete submittals can extend review periods.

What happens if I build without a permit in Los Angeles?

Building without a permit is risky and can lead to:

• Stop-work orders

• Fines or penalties

• Difficulty selling or insuring the property

In most cases, LADBS will require a “retroactive permit” at a higher cost, so it’s best to secure permits upfront.

Who can help me estimate LADBS fees accurately?

A permit consultant like JDJ Consulting can prepare detailed cost estimates. They analyze:

• Project scope

• Applicable fee schedules

• Zoning rules

This ensures your budget covers all fees before submission and helps prevent surprise costs later.

What’s the best way to stay updated on LADBS fees?

Stay current by:

• Checking the official LADBS website for updates

• Subscribing to JDJ Consulting’s blog for yearly fee breakdowns

• Signing up for LADBS email alerts

Since rates and rules change annually, staying informed saves time and money.