Code Violation
Permit Resolution
Unpermitted construction and LADBS compliance orders can block sales, refinancing, and future improvements. We resolve them with a clear, structured legalization process.
Code violations are more common than most property owners realize. Previous owners, contractors, or tenants often made modifications without permits — from garage conversions to electrical upgrades. These violations don't disappear; they surface during sale, refinancing, or a neighbor's complaint, and they must be addressed before they compound into larger enforcement actions.
Ocean Permits & Development assesses the existing conditions, determines the correct permit pathway, coordinates with LADBS plan checkers and inspectors, and guides the project through to final sign-off. We resolve violations; we don't avoid them.
Types of Violations We Resolve
Unpermitted Room Additions
Rooms, garages, or outbuildings constructed without permits. Often discovered during sale or refinancing.
Unpermitted ADUs or Garage Conversions
Garage or storage space converted to living space without permits — one of the most common violations in LA.
Setback Violations
Structures built too close to property lines without proper approvals or variances.
Change of Use Without Permits
Using a space for a purpose not approved by the original permit — e.g., operating a business in a residential zone.
Electrical & Plumbing Violations
Unpermitted panel upgrades, wiring, or plumbing work flagged during inspection or escrow.
Active LADBS Compliance Orders
Formal notices from LADBS or LAHD requiring corrective action within a set timeframe.
Our Resolution Process
- 01
Violation Assessment
We review the LADBS compliance order, research the property's permit history, and assess the existing construction against current code to determine what legalization requires.
- 02
Feasibility Report
Before you invest in drawings or plans, we give you an honest picture: what can be legalized as-is, what needs to be upgraded, and whether any element may need to be removed.
- 03
Permit Application Preparation
We coordinate with your architect or engineer to prepare a compliant application package — or, for simpler projects, prepare the documentation ourselves.
- 04
LADBS Plan Check & Corrections
We submit, track the application, and respond directly to plan checker comments — minimizing the number of review cycles needed to reach approval.
- 05
Inspection Coordination
We prepare a clear inspection roadmap for your contractor, ensuring each inspection is scheduled and passed in the correct sequence through final sign-off.
Common Questions
What is a code violation permit?
A code violation permit — sometimes called a retroactive permit or after-the-fact permit — legalizes construction or modifications that were done without required building permits. Rather than demolishing the unpermitted work, this process brings it up to current code standards and records it with the city. The result is a legal, permitted structure.
How do I know if I have a code violation in Los Angeles?
Code violations are most commonly discovered during: real estate escrow (title search or buyer inspection), refinancing (lender-required inspection), a neighbor complaint triggering LADBS inspection, or a routine city inspection. LADBS issues a Compliance Order or Notice to Comply, which specifies what must be corrected and by when.
Can unpermitted work always be legalized?
In most cases, yes — but not always. If the existing construction violates current zoning laws (e.g., a structure in a required setback), legalization may require a variance or the structure may need to be removed. We assess the existing conditions first and give you an honest picture of your options before you invest in a legalization effort that may not be feasible.
Do I need to resolve a code violation before selling my property?
In California, sellers must disclose known material defects — including unpermitted additions — to buyers. While technically a sale can close with violations disclosed, most lenders will not finance a property with active LADBS compliance orders, and most buyers will require resolution as a condition of sale. Resolving violations before listing protects your sale price and prevents last-minute deal delays.
How long does it take to resolve a code violation in Los Angeles?
Timeline depends on the scope of the violation and how much work is needed to bring the structure up to code. Simple violations with existing permitted structures can be resolved in 4–8 weeks. Complex violations requiring structural upgrades, new plans, or variances may take 3–6 months. We provide a realistic timeline estimate after reviewing your specific situation.
Need to resolve a code violation?
Tell us about the violation and we will assess your options before you spend a dollar on plans or drawings.
Get a Permit Timeline Estimate