Common Permit Delays That Slow Down Backyard Projects (And How to Avoid Them)

Why Permits Get Delayed

Nobody wakes up hoping for permit delays. Yet they happen constantly—and usually to people who didn't know what to expect. After 1,000+ permitted projects in LA, I've seen every delay imaginable. Here's how to avoid the most common ones.

The Top 10 Permit Delays

1. Incomplete Submittals

LADBS returns incomplete applications without review. Missing a single form or document means starting over at the back of the queue. Cost: 2-4 weeks minimum.

Prevention: Use a checklist. Review everything twice before submitting. Consider hiring a permit expediter.

2. Plan Check Corrections

Even complete submittals often require corrections. Common issues include setback violations, engineering detail questions, and Title 24 compliance. Each correction cycle adds 2-4 weeks.

Prevention: Work with designers and engineers who know LADBS requirements. Experience dramatically reduces corrections.

3. Setback Violations

Pools require 5' from property lines. Structures have varying setbacks. Design something too close, and you're redesigning after plan check.

Prevention: Get accurate property survey before design. Know your setbacks from day one.

4. Missing Engineering

Submitting without required structural or soils engineering stops the process cold. You can't get it reviewed until engineering is complete.

Prevention: Understand engineering requirements for your project type and location before starting design.

5. HPOZ/Historic District Reviews

Properties in Historic Preservation Overlay Zones need separate approval before LADBS. This can add 4-8 weeks.

Prevention: Check if you're in an HPOZ before starting. Design to meet historic guidelines from the beginning.

6. Zoning Variances Needed

If your project doesn't conform to zoning (lot coverage, height, setbacks), you need a variance. This requires hearings and can add 6-12 months.

Prevention: Design within zoning limits. Know what's allowed before designing what you want.

7. Unpermitted Existing Work

LADBS may notice unpermitted additions or structures during your permit review. They can require you to address these before approving new work.

Prevention: Disclose existing conditions upfront. Address legacy issues proactively.

8. Neighboring Property Concerns

Some projects require neighbor notification. Objections can trigger additional review, especially for hillside properties.

Prevention: Talk to neighbors before submitting. Address concerns proactively.

9. Department Backlogs

Sometimes LADBS is simply overwhelmed. Post-pandemic staffing issues persist. Not much you can do except wait or pay for express service.

Prevention: Use express plan check if available. Submit early in the week (not Friday).

10. Multiple Department Routing

Hillside projects route through multiple departments sequentially. Each handoff adds time.

Prevention: Have your contractor or expediter track progress actively. Follow up regularly.

Real Cost of Delays

Permit delays aren't just annoying—they're expensive:

• Designer/engineer revision fees: $500-$2,000 per correction cycle
• Extended rental if you're waiting to move: $3,000-$10,000/month
• Missing summer swim season: Priceless frustration
• Contractor schedule conflicts from delays: Premium charges or rebooking

After our first contractor had correction after correction, we switched to Moda. Permit went through first try. — Victor L.