Do You Need Architectural Plans for a Backyard Remodel in LA?

When Architectural Plans Are Required in LA

Not every backyard project needs an architect. But some absolutely do—and building without proper plans when required can result in stop-work orders, fines, and forced demolition. Here's exactly when you need licensed architectural plans in Los Angeles.

Projects That Require Architectural Plans

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) requires licensed architect or engineer stamps for:

• Any structure over 120 square feet (covered patios, pool houses, ADUs)
• Structures with electrical or plumbing connections
• Retaining walls over 4 feet high
• Hillside properties in specific zones (check your zoning)
• Projects requiring structural modifications to your home
• Commercial or mixed-use properties

Projects That Typically Don't Require Architects

• Swimming pools (engineered drawings required, but not necessarily architect)
• Freestanding pergolas under 120 sq ft without electrical
• Patios and hardscape without structures
• Landscape modifications without grading changes
• Fencing under 6 feet (8 feet in rear yard on flat lots)

Architect vs. Engineer vs. Designer

Understanding who can provide what:

Licensed Architect

Required for buildings and major structures. Can stamp drawings for any project type. Costs more but handles everything from concept to construction documents.

Structural Engineer

Required for pools, retaining walls over 4 feet, and anything with structural calculations. Cannot design buildings but can calculate loads and certify structural elements.

Landscape Architect

Licensed professionals who specialize in outdoor spaces. Can stamp landscape plans and grading plans. Often the best choice for comprehensive backyard projects.

Landscape Designer

Unlicensed designers who create plans but cannot stamp them. Work is often equivalent quality but requires a licensed professional's stamp for permitted projects.

What Architectural Plans Include

A complete plan set for LADBS typically includes:

1. Site plan showing property lines and setbacks
2. Floor plans and elevations for any structures
3. Structural details and calculations
4. Electrical plans (if applicable)
5. Plumbing plans (if applicable)
6. Grading and drainage plan
7. Energy compliance documents (Title 24)

Costs for Architectural Services

In Los Angeles, expect:

• Pool engineering: $1,500-$3,000
• Covered patio/pergola plans: $2,500-$5,000
• Pool house or ADU: $8,000-$20,000+
• Full backyard remodel with structures: $5,000-$15,000
• Hourly rates: $150-$300/hour for licensed architects

The Permit Process in LA

Once you have plans, the LADBS permit process works like this:

1. Submit plans to LADBS (online or in-person)
2. Plan check review (4-12 weeks for most projects)
3. Corrections if required (add 2-4 weeks per round)
4. Permit issuance upon approval
5. Construction with required inspections
6. Final inspection and permit closure

For flat lots with straightforward projects, plan check takes 4-8 weeks. Hillside properties, historic districts, or complex projects can take 6-12+ months.

Moda handled all the permits and engineering. We never had to set foot in a city office. — Jennifer L.

When to Hire an Architect vs. Design-Build

If your project is primarily structures (pool house, major additions), an independent architect makes sense. If it's primarily landscape with some structures, a design-build firm that coordinates with architects and engineers is more efficient.

At Moda, we work with licensed architects and engineers as needed but handle coordination ourselves. You get proper licensed drawings without managing multiple professionals.