• The property must be zone to allow for single family residential use (e.g., R-E, H-R, and R-1) and contains an existing or proposed single-family home. Click here for the Zoning Map
• The exterior wall must have a clearance of 5’ from any structure. (Measured from wall 4’ side-yard and 4’ rear-yard setbacks from property line).
• The exterior walls must be further than 5’ from side or rear property lines.

Fire Flow Residential

A residential fire flow test is used to determine the available water supply from a fire hydrant, ensuring there is sufficient pressure and flow for firefighting purposes.

To request a fire flow test, visit the City’s Online Permit Portal and navigate to the Engineering tab to begin your application and submit your Site Map.

Sewer Lateral Inspection

A residential sewer lateral inspection must be conducted to evaluate the condition of the pipe that connects a home’s plumbing system to the main city sewer line. Applicants must obtain a video of the property’s sewer lateral from the property to the City main connection.

To request a sewer lateral inspection, visit the City’s Online Permit Portal and select the Engineering tab to start your application and submit your Video.

Preapproved ADU Plans

A residential preapproved ADU plan in California is a standardized building design for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) that has been reviewed and approved by a local jurisdiction for compliance with building codes and state regulations. These plans are not site-specific but can be used on any property where ADUs are permitted, provided the site meets certain criteria. See the plan sets below:

• Studio, 311-sq. ft.
• 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 495-sq. ft.
• 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 757-sq. ft.
• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 800-sq. ft.

Note: The preapproved plans cannot be modified in anyway. You may consult with a designer and have your own custom plans created and submit them to the Planning Division.

Building Energy Analysis Report (Title 24 Compliance)

A Residential Building Energy Analysis Report (Title 24 Compliance) is a document that shows a new or remodeled home in California meets state energy efficiency standards under Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.

Site Map

Prepare a site plan that is drawn to scale, fully dimensioned and shows the following minimum information listed below. Additional information may be required on a case-by-case basis: (click here for an example site plan)

• Sizes and locations of all structures on site
• Dimensions to property lines
• The ADU shall maintain a minimum 4-ft setbacks to side and rear property lines
• Any exterior walls with openings, such as doors or windows, must maintain a minimum 5-ft setback to side and rear property lines
• Dimensions to other structures on site measured wall to wall (a 5’ minimum separation is required.
• All paved areas including access into the site (driveway/walkways)
• Locations of all trees on site
• Addresses for all existing units on the property. (For identification purposes only)
• A vicinity map demonstrating whether the property is located within one-half mile walking distance of a public transit stop
• Proposed and existing location & size of electrical service panel & sub-panels
• Location of proposed heating / cooling equipment per energy documentation serving the dwelling.
• Associated mechanical equipment (ac condenser / heat pump) shall maintain a minimum 5-ft setback from property line and shall be screened from the public-right-of-way
• Sewer line route & connections
• Site drainage away from the new foundation and direct site
• Drainage to a storm sewer conveyance system, public street, or
• Other approved point of collection.
• Show relative or actual elevation points, slope, and/or direction of flow
• Identify whether the primary residence has a fire sprinkler system or solar panels

The following may also be required, which may result in additional plans, fees and/or permits:

• A solar photovoltaic energy system (Solar PV panels) pursuant to California Energy Code Section 150.1c.14.
• Fire Sprinkler system
• A geo-technical report
• Other permits and submittal requirements in compliance with state law and the Whittier Municipal Code.

Hold Harmless Agreement

To utilize any of the City’s pre-approved Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plans, applicants are required to complete the City’s Hold Harmless Agreement prior to submission.

Site Photographs

As part of the application/review process, please provide color photographs (minimum size 4"x6") showing all sides of the property.

These photographs are needed for the following reasons:

• To document the existing condition of the property and surrounding context.
• To ensure all elevations of the structure are clearly visible and considered.
• To assist in evaluating how the property fits within the surrounding neighborhood.
• To provide a visual reference for zoning, design, or historic preservation reviews.

Title Report

A title report for a single-family dwelling is a document that provides a summary of the legal status of a property's title. It's typically prepared by a title company or an attorney and is an essential part of any real estate transaction—especially when you're building, buying, or refinancing a home.

• To begin, visit the City of Whittier's Online Permit Portal to electronically submit your application. Create an account, select the building permit record type, and choose the Preapproved Accessory Dwelling Unit option. Fill out the application and upload the required documents. To learn how to apply for a permit, click here.
• Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for completeness within 1–2 business days. You will receive an invoice for the plan review and new address fees. The invoice must be paid before your plans can proceed through the review process.

Note: A new address will automatically be assigned and updated by the Building & Safety plan checker as part of the review process.

• Your plans will then be routed for plan check review which takes approximately 5 business days to complete. You will be notified via email if your plans have been approved or if corrections have been issued.
• If corrections are issued, you must resubmit plans addressing the corrections and provide a response sheet with responses to each correction. The review time for resubmittals is approximately 5 days.
• If your plans have been approved, you will be notified via email with instructions on next steps for permit issuance.

• All applicable fees for the use of Preapproved ADU plans will be assessed by the City and issued via invoice. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice, and fees must be paid in full prior to permit issuance.

According to Section 109 of the 2022 California Residential Code (CRC), the following inspections are required during construction. The specific sequence and applicability may vary depending on the project's scope. Always consult with the building department to confirm the required inspections for your project. You may schedule inspections on our Online Permit Portal.

Required Inspections per 2022 CRC Section 109

1. Footing and Foundation Inspection (109.1.1)
   • Conducted after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. This inspection ensures compliance with approved plans before placing concrete.
2. Concrete Slab and Under-Floor Inspection (109.1.1.1)
   • Performed after all in-slab or under-floor building service equipment, conduit, piping, and insulation are installed but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing is installed.
3. Plumbing, Mechanical, Gas, and Electrical (109.1.2)
   • Rough inspection of plumbing, mechanical, gas and electrical systems shall be made prior to covering or concealment, before fixtures or appliances are set or installed, and prior to framing inspection.
   • Energy Efficiency ensures compliance with energy conservation measures, including insulation, fenestration, HVAC systems, and lighting, as required by Title 24, Part 6.
4. Lowest Floor Elevation Inspection (109.1.3)
   • In flood hazard areas, this inspection verifies that the elevation of the lowest floor complies with the approved design.
5. Framing (109.1.4)
   • Occurs after the roof, all framing, fire-blocking, and bracing are in place and all rough-in work for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems is complete.
6. Lath and Gypsum Board Inspection (109.1.4.2)
   • Exterior lath to be inspected by the planning department before the building dept.
   • Conducted after lathing and gypsum board are in place but before any plastering or taping. This inspection ensures proper installation and compliance with fire-resistance ratings.
7. Fire- and Smoke-Resistant Penetrations Inspection (109.1.5.1)
   • Verifies that penetrations and joints in fire-resistance-rated assemblies are properly sealed and protected.
8. Other Inspections (109.1.5)
   • Additional inspections as required by the building official based on the specific project scope.
9. Special Inspections (109.1.5.2)
   • Certain construction types may require special inspections by qualified professionals, as outlined in Chapter 17 of the CBC.
10. Final Planning Inspection
    • Planning will verify that all finishes and materials match the approved plans and architectural style that was selected by the applicant. This inspection will automatically be scheduled when the Final Building & Safety Inspection is scheduled.
11. Final Building & Safety Inspection (109.1.6)
    • Conducted after all work is completed to verify compliance with the building permit, approved plans, and applicable codes.

Following the successful completion of final inspections by both the Planning Division and Building & Safety Division, the permit status will be updated to reflect Finaled, marking the official completion of the project.