Why 'Driveway Contractor Near Me' Is Loaded With Bad Bids
Driveways look simple. They're not. They carry vehicle loads, sit on expansive LA clay, and meet the public right-of-way at the apron — which is permitted. A bad driveway cracks within 24 months. A good one outlives the house.
Three Driveway Options for LA Homes
Concrete Driveway
- Cost: $14–$22/sf installed
- 4-inch slab over 4-inch base, #3 rebar 18" OC
- Control joints every 8–10 feet
- Lifespan: 25–40 years
Stamped Concrete Driveway
- Cost: $18–$32/sf installed
- Same structural spec + integral color and stamp pattern
- Sealed every 2–3 years
- Lifespan: 25–40 years (cracks more visible)
Paver Driveway
- Cost: $26–$42/sf installed
- 6-inch base, 80mm pavers, full edge restraint
- Individual pavers replaceable
- Lifespan: 40+ years
Apron and Right-of-Way Permit (LA)
The portion of your driveway in the public right-of-way (typically the curb and apron) requires a permit from LA Department of Public Works — not Building & Safety. A real driveway contractor pulls this and coordinates with utility marking before excavation.
Driveway Contractor Red Flags
- No rebar or mesh in concrete
- Less than 4 inches of base
- No control joints planned
- Won't pull the right-of-way permit
- Quote priced per linear foot instead of square foot
💡 Pro Tip
Slope matters. LA building code requires positive drainage away from the garage. A bad driveway pitch sends water into your slab — and that's how you get $30,000 of garage damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driveway contractor cost in Los Angeles?
Concrete $14–$22/sf, stamped $18–$32/sf, pavers $26–$42/sf installed. Most LA driveways run $8,000–$30,000 depending on size and material.
Do I need a permit for a new driveway in LA?
Yes if you're modifying the apron, curb cut, or sidewalk — that's a Public Works permit. Pure replacement on private property may not require a building permit but utility location is mandatory.
Concrete or pavers for a driveway?
Concrete is cheaper upfront and lasts 25–40 years. Pavers cost more, last longer, are individually repairable, and add resale value.
How long does driveway installation take?
Concrete: 5–8 working days plus 7-day cure before vehicle use. Pavers: 7–12 working days, drivable next day after polymeric sand cures.
Can a stamped concrete driveway crack?
Yes. All concrete cracks. Properly placed control joints direct cracks into invisible lines. Stamped surfaces make existing cracks more visible.
Should I add drainage with a new driveway?
Almost always. A channel drain at the garage threshold or a French drain at the low point prevents tens of thousands in slab and foundation damage.
