Am I required to hire an architect to draw the plans?
A homeowner can prepare their own plans or hire an unlicensed person (draftsperson) to draw plans for single-story residential projects meeting the conventional light-framing requirements of the building code. The City of Whittier requires all commercial improvement plans to be stamped by a licensed design professional.
Are Temporary Banners permitted?
Yes, but they require a simple review by both Planning and Building Divisions.
Can I convert my garage into an additional room or secondary unit?
Only if the minimum required parking is met or proposed and permits are required.
Do I need smoke detectors installed to sell my house?
The City has no requirement for the retroactive installation of smoke detectors however the LA County Fire Department and the State both have requirements. Please check with those agencies or your local realtor. A permit is required if you install the type of smoke detectors that wire into your home's main electrical power and is not strictly battery-powered.
Do you have information on room additions?
Yes, consult with Planning for setback, development standards and design standards. Building has Type V and energy compliance handouts. Planning requires a full set of plans (minimum size for plans is 24" x 36") prior to approval.
Do you need a permit for a garage sale? What are the garage sale regulations?
The Police Department issues alarm system permits. You can contact the Police Department at (562) 945-8250 or visit their website.
Do you need a permit for a retaining wall?
Yes: Be sure to indicate grade differences, slopes and location of any adjacent structures or driveways on your plot plan. All retaining walls over 3 feet require engineered plans and calculations as well.
Do you need a permit for window change outs? What do I need to bring?
Yes, permits are required for window change outs. You need to bring, to the Planning Division, pictures of the house showing the existing windows, a window schedule and brochures/pictures of the new windows for approval and a site plan and title 24.
Does the Building and Safety Division have information on requirements for room additions or other projects?
Yes, the Building and Safety Division has many informational handouts with one that should specifically be helpful in preparing your plans. The handouts however, are for informational use and are not a substitute for the preparation of plans needed for approval.
How do I arrange for an inspection?
Please call one of our staff members at (562) 567-9320 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and they will assist you in scheduling your inspection. Be sure that the work is ready for inspection when you call, that you call a minimum of one business day prior to your request, that we have full access to the area of improvement (including provision of a ladder for roof access if needed) and that an adult is present during the inspection. Our cutoff time for inspections scheduled for the following business day is 3 PM and, on occasion, the inspectors' work load schedule may require longer than one business day notice so please provide as much advance notice as possible. When you call please have the following information ready to give to our staff:
1. The job site address
2. The permit number (the six digit number stamped on your permit)
3. The type of inspection required (check your job card if you don't know for sure)
4. Your name and a phone number we can reach you at if there are any concerns prior to the inspection
How do I get my banner approved?
You are required to bring in a picture of the building including the width of the proposed facade or tenant space. Furthermore, you must physically bring the banner in to the Planning Division, so that staff may affix an approval sticker on the banner itself.
How long does the Building and Safety Division plan review process take?
Generally, projects require 2-3 weeks review on the average for the initial submittal with rechecks of corrections taking a week to two weeks. More complex projects may take slightly longer to review.
How long does the Plan Check process take?
Residential: Generally 2-3 weeks on average. Commercial, the initial completeness review can take up to 30 days, in compliance with state law.
How many sets of plans does the Building and Safety Division need for review?
Building and Safety requires two complete sets for residents and three sets for commercial of your plans, specifications, calculations, reports and any other documents necessary for review and approval. Please check with the Planning Division ((562) 567-9320) and other authorities having jurisdiction (e.g. LA County Fire Department 323-890-4125) for their submittal requirements.
I want to build a fence adjacent to my neighbor's property, what will I need?
All residential fences and walls that exceed 18 inches require both Planning review and a Building Permit. Walls and fences can be a significant investment in your property and will enhance your property if appropriately and attractively designed and constructed. These same walls and fences can however, become a point of contention between neighbors. When you are proposing a new wall or fence that will be adjacent to your neighbor's property the Building and Safety Division requires that either a release be signed by the neighbor indicating that they agree to the location of the proposed wall or fence or that a statement be signed by you indicating that you take full responsibility to ensure that the wall or fence will be constructed entirely upon your property (including the foundations). Ultimately, if your neighbor protests the location of your wall or fence, it will become your responsibility to provide a survey (with any necessary calculations) that is prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer that will serve as evidence that all work has been constructed entirely on your property.
My home is over 50 years old. Does it qualify for a Mills Act Contract/Agreement?
Mills Act contract applications may be submitted for consideration to the City if your property is listed as local, State or National historic landmark. If your property is a contributing resource within a designated historic district, it also qualifies for a Mills Act Agreement. If you are interested in learning more about Mills Act Agreements, you are encouraged to call the Community Development Department at (562) 567-9320.
My home is over 50 years old. Does it qualify for a Mills Act Contract/Agreement?
Mills Act contract applications may be submitted for consideration to the City if your property is listed as local, State or National historic landmark. If your property is a contributing resource within a designated historic district, it also qualifies for a Mills Act Agreement. If you are interested in learning more about Mills Act Agreements, you are encouraged to call the Community Development Department at (562) 567-9320.
My insurance company is asking me to provide them with what Flood Zone my property is in. How do I obtain that information?
Flood zones are the tools FEMA uses to determine the flood risk homeowners face. Prior to the enactment of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), homeowners had no mechanism to protect themselves from the devastation of flooding and in many parts of the Untied States unchecked development in the floodplain was exacerbating the flood risk. Please call the Planning Division at (562) 567-9320 with the property address and a Planner will research your address in the City's Flood Zone map.
What are the City Hall Inspector’s office and field hours?
The inspectors are in the office between 8-8:30 a.m. and 4-4:30 p.m. Inspection requests can be taken for the hours 8:30-12 a.m. and 1-4:00 p.m. The customer may only arrange for an appointment by talking with the inspector while they are in the office, or calling the Community Development office at (562) 567-9320.
What does a permit cost?
Building permit fees are based on the total value of the job including the value of the labor and materials (these amounts must include fair market prices for donated materials or services). Most projects also require plan check services and, depending on the scope of the work, fees may be required to be paid to other agencies having jurisdiction over your project. Fees for mechanical, electrical and plumbing permits are based on a fixture or "unit" cost.
What is an air quality complaint? How do I register a complaint?
Any injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance occuring as a result of air contaminants or other materials, including, but not limited to, smoke, dust or odors. Call 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664).
What is the cost for a temporary banner?
The total cost for a banner permit is $25.00.
What materials can the Temporary banner be made of?
All banners shall be constructed in a professional manner. Materials are plastic, vinyl, canvas or other weather resistant material. Paper, cardboard, clear plastic or other similar material shall not be permitted for banner fabrication.
What other approvals will I need?
It is recommended that you consult with the Planning and Building Permit Technicians to help guide you through the approval processes. A limited number of projects may be reviewed at the counter and issued with simply Planning, Public Works and Building and Safety reviews. Other projects however are more complex and may require review by other departments within City Hall such as the Parks Division or the Police Department and some will require review by outside agencies such as LA County Fire Department, Cal Fire or LA County Environmental Health. Some projects require notifications of the project such as with the South Coast Air Quality Management District or may require fees to be paid such as to one of the many school districts within the City or payment of fees to the LA County Sanitation District before a permit is issued. Each of these other reviews is coordinated directly by the permit applicant and is NOT coordinated by the Building and Safety Division.
When do I need a permit?
Permits are required for many types of improvements including: additions, alterations, renovations, new construction, building relocations, demolition and many types of repairs. Permits are required for changing windows, roofing, fences and walls (greater than 18" high), plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems and landscape irrigation. Work such as painting and carpeting, sidewalks or patio slabs do not require permits. Please check with the Building and Safety Division by calling (562) 567-9320 to make sure.
Where can I obtain a copy of the General Plan?
The General Plan sets the standard for the City and was adopted in 1993. - Sir Speedy has a copy of the General Plan and anyone can get a copy of the entire Plan, or just a portion. - Sir Speedy is located at 7240 Greenleaf Avenue, (562) 698-7513. The cost of the entire Plan is $25.00
Who can obtain permits?
Permits are issued to properly licensed contractors and to owners of residential properties (or their authorized agent) for any or all types of construction work on a residential structure. Property owners and tenants in non-residential facilities may apply for a Building Permit only and permits for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing work (or other types of work when required by the Building Official) will only be issued to contractors that are appropriately licensed to do the type of work involved in the permit. Contractors must provide a copy of their contractor's license (pocket card) and certificate of workman's compensation insurance. Agents for contractors (including employees not listed on CSLB's Personnel List) or property owners must have a signed and notarized letter of authorization and government issued identification.
Who do I call if my building is in the unincorporated area, not the City of Whittier?
The number of the Los Angeles County Building Division is (562) 946-1390. The number for the Department of Regional Planning is (213) 974-6411.
When do I need a permit?
Permits are required for many types of improvements including: additions, alterations, renovations, new construction, building relocations, demolition and many types of repairs. Permits are required for changing windows, roofing, fences and walls (greater than 18" high), plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems and landscape irrigation. Work such as painting and carpeting, sidewalks or patio slabs do not require permits. Please check with the Building and Safety Division by calling (562) 567-9320 to make sure.
Where can I purchase an Metro bus pass?
Metro bus passes may be purchased at the Senior Center at the Transit Depot. Bus passes are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis from the 25th of the month until the 10th of the next month or until all are sold.
Who do I call if my building is in the unincorporated area, not the City of Whittier?
The number of the Los Angeles County Building Division is (562) 946-1390. The number for the Department of Regional Planning is (213) 974-6411.
Who can obtain permits?
Permits are issued to properly licensed contractors and to owners of residential properties (or their authorized agent) for any or all types of construction work on a residential structure. Property owners and tenants in non-residential facilities may apply for a Building Permit only and permits for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing work (or other types of work when required by the Building Official) will only be issued to contractors that are appropriately licensed to do the type of work involved in the permit. Contractors must provide a copy of their contractor's license (pocket card) and certificate of workman's compensation insurance. Agents for contractors (including employees not listed on CSLB's Personnel List) or property owners must have a signed and notarized letter of authorization and government issued identification.
What does a permit cost?
Building permit fees are based on the total value of the job including the value of the labor and materials (these amounts must include fair market prices for donated materials or services). Most projects also require plan check services and, depending on the scope of the work, fees may be required to be paid to other agencies having jurisdiction over your project. Fees for mechanical, electrical and plumbing permits are based on a fixture or "unit" cost.
Am I required to hire an architect to draw the plans?
A homeowner can prepare their own plans or hire an unlicensed person (draftsperson) to draw plans for single-story residential projects meeting the conventional light-framing requirements of the building code. The City of Whittier requires all commercial improvement plans to be stamped by a licensed design professional.
How many sets of plans does the Building and Safety Division need for review?
Building and Safety requires two complete sets for residents and three sets for commercial of your plans, specifications, calculations, reports and any other documents necessary for review and approval. Please check with the Planning Division ((562) 567-9320) and other authorities having jurisdiction (e.g. LA County Fire Department 323-890-4125) for their submittal requirements.
How long does the Building and Safety Division plan review process take?
Generally, projects require 2-3 weeks review on the average for the initial submittal with rechecks of corrections taking a week to two weeks. More complex projects may take slightly longer to review.
What other approvals will I need?
It is recommended that you consult with the Planning and Building Permit Technicians to help guide you through the approval processes. A limited number of projects may be reviewed at the counter and issued with simply Planning, Public Works and Building and Safety reviews. Other projects however are more complex and may require review by other departments within City Hall such as the Parks Division or the Police Department and some will require review by outside agencies such as LA County Fire Department, Cal Fire or LA County Environmental Health. Some projects require notifications of the project such as with the South Coast Air Quality Management District or may require fees to be paid such as to one of the many school districts within the City or payment of fees to the LA County Sanitation District before a permit is issued. Each of these other reviews is coordinated directly by the permit applicant and is NOT coordinated by the Building and Safety Division.
I want to build a fence adjacent to my neighbor's property, what will I need?
All residential fences and walls that exceed 18 inches require both Planning review and a Building Permit. Walls and fences can be a significant investment in your property and will enhance your property if appropriately and attractively designed and constructed. These same walls and fences can however, become a point of contention between neighbors. When you are proposing a new wall or fence that will be adjacent to your neighbor's property the Building and Safety Division requires that either a release be signed by the neighbor indicating that they agree to the location of the proposed wall or fence or that a statement be signed by you indicating that you take full responsibility to ensure that the wall or fence will be constructed entirely upon your property (including the foundations). Ultimately, if your neighbor protests the location of your wall or fence, it will become your responsibility to provide a survey (with any necessary calculations) that is prepared by a licensed surveyor or engineer that will serve as evidence that all work has been constructed entirely on your property.
Can I convert my garage into an additional room or secondary unit?
Only if the minimum required parking is met or proposed and permits are required.
Do you need a permit for window change outs? What do I need to bring?
Yes, permits are required for window change outs. You need to bring, to the Planning Division, pictures of the house showing the existing windows, a window schedule and brochures/pictures of the new windows for approval and a site plan and title 24.
Do you have information on room additions?
Yes, consult with Planning for setback, development standards and design standards. Building has Type V and energy compliance handouts. Planning requires a full set of plans (minimum size for plans is 24" x 36") prior to approval.
Does the Building and Safety Division have information on requirements for room additions or other projects?
Yes, the Building and Safety Division has many informational handouts with one that should specifically be helpful in preparing your plans. The handouts however, are for informational use and are not a substitute for the preparation of plans needed for approval.
Do I need smoke detectors installed to sell my house?
The City has no requirement for the retroactive installation of smoke detectors however the LA County Fire Department and the State both have requirements. Please check with those agencies or your local realtor. A permit is required if you install the type of smoke detectors that wire into your home's main electrical power and is not strictly battery-powered.
My insurance company is asking me to provide them with what Flood Zone my property is in. How do I obtain that information?
Flood zones are the tools FEMA uses to determine the flood risk homeowners face. Prior to the enactment of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), homeowners had no mechanism to protect themselves from the devastation of flooding and in many parts of the Untied States unchecked development in the floodplain was exacerbating the flood risk. Please call the Planning Division at (562) 567-9320 with the property address and a Planner will research your address in the City's Flood Zone map.
How do I arrange for an inspection?
Please call one of our staff members at (562) 567-9320 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and they will assist you in scheduling your inspection. Be sure that the work is ready for inspection when you call, that you call a minimum of one business day prior to your request, that we have full access to the area of improvement (including provision of a ladder for roof access if needed) and that an adult is present during the inspection. Our cutoff time for inspections scheduled for the following business day is 3 PM and, on occasion, the inspectors' work load schedule may require longer than one business day notice so please provide as much advance notice as possible. When you call please have the following information ready to give to our staff:
1. The job site address
2. The permit number (the six digit number stamped on your permit)
3. The type of inspection required (check your job card if you don't know for sure)
4. Your name and a phone number we can reach you at if there are any concerns prior to the inspection
What are the hours when I can reach one of the technicians or an inspector?
The Planning and Building and Safety public counter hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. One of the technicians is available during those hours to assist you with consultation or other information. Our Building Inspectors are available by appointment only Monday through Friday from 8 to 8:30 AM or from approximately 3:30 to 4:30 PM. Please call (562) 567-9320 to schedule an appointment.
Do you need a permit for a garage sale? What are the garage sale regulations?
The City of Whittier does not require permits for garage sales; however, there are regulations that apply to your event:
- No more than one garage sale is permitted during any three-month period.
- No such garage sale shall be longer than two days.
- Such sales shall be conducted only during the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. of any day.
- Signs may not be posted on City trees or in the parkway.
Where can I obtain a copy of the General Plan?
The General Plan sets the standard for the City and was adopted in 1993. - Sir Speedy has a copy of the General Plan and anyone can get a copy of the entire Plan, or just a portion. - Sir Speedy is located at 7240 Greenleaf Avenue, (562) 698-7513. The cost of the entire Plan is $25.00.
Are Temporary Banners permitted?
Yes, but they require a simple review by both Planning and Building Divisions.
What is the cost for a temporary banner?
The total cost for a banner permit is $25.00.
How long is a banner permit good for?
A banner may be permitted for 10 days within a month.
What materials can the Temporary banner be made of?
All banners shall be constructed in a professional manner. Materials are plastic, vinyl, canvas or other weather resistant material. Paper, cardboard, clear plastic or other similar material shall not be permitted for banner fabrication.
How do I get my banner approved?
You are required to bring in a picture of the building including the width of the proposed facade or tenant space. Furthermore, you must physically bring the banner in to the Planning Division, so that staff may affix an approval sticker on the banner itself.
Do you need a permit for a retaining wall?
Yes: Be sure to indicate grade differences, slopes and location of any adjacent structures or driveways on your plot plan. All retaining walls over 3 feet require engineered plans and calculations as well.
How long does the Plan Check process take?
Residential: Generally 2-3 weeks on average. Commercial, the initial completeness review can take up to 30 days, in compliance with state law.
What is an air quality complaint? How do I register a complaint?
Any injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance occuring as a result of air contaminants or other materials, including, but not limited to, smoke, dust or odors. Call 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664).
What are the City Hall Inspector’s office and field hours?
The inspectors are in the office between 8-8:30 a.m. and 4-4:30 p.m. Inspection requests can be taken for the hours 8:30-12 a.m. and 1-4:00 p.m. The customer may only arrange for an appointment by talking with the inspector while they are in the office, or calling the Community Development office at (562) 567-9320.
