LA City Council Explores Self-Certification Program to Expedite Permits
The Los Angeles City Council is considering the implementation of a self-certification
program to streamline the permitting process for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
This initiative seeks to speed up approvals and cut delays while keeping buildings safe and up to code.
What You Need to Know
The self-certification program would let licensed architects and engineers skip plan checks by certifying their projects follow all building and zoning codes.
Eligible projects may include commercial interior upgrades, single-family homes, and simple low-rise buildings.
The program still requires stamped plans, and the city may do random inspections and audits.
Violating building codes could lead to losing self-certification privileges and facing penalties.
The City Council has directed the Department of Building and Safety and City Planning to report back within 30 days with recommendations based on similar programs in San Diego, Bellflower, and New York City.
How It Impacts You
This initiative could make permit approvals faster and more predictable, especially for remodels and tenant improvements.
Faster Project Approvals – Getting permits in 1–5 days could speed up property upgrades and tenant improvements.
Reduced Administrative Delays – Faster approvals could ease city workloads and cut delays, helping projects start sooner.
Greater Professional Responsibility – The program helps developers but makes licensed professionals responsible for following building codes.
Potential Expansion of Eligibility – If successful, the program could expand to include more commercial projects, offering greater flexibility for real estate development.
Stay Connected
This potential policy shift aligns with broader efforts to address permitting delays and stimulate development in Los Angeles.
BOMA/GLA will continue monitoring this initiative on BOMA on the Frontline and advocating for solutions that support commercial property owners and managers.
