When does a patio, walkway, or driveway need a building permit in Los Angeles?

A surface more than 30 in above the ground needs a permit. Platforms, walks, and driveways 30 in or less above the ground need no permit in Los Angeles.

Where do I apply for a patio, walkway, or driveway permit in Los Angeles?

Apply through LADBS, or call 311 (213-473-3231).

Do you need a permit for a patio, walkway, or driveway in Los Angeles, CA?

It depends on the details of your project.

Platforms, walks, and driveways up to 30 in above the ground need no permit.

The surface cannot sit over a basement or story below.

Above 30 in, the surface needs a building permit.

A person last checked these rules on October 22, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Los Angeles before you build.

Permits a patio, walkway, or driveway can need in Los Angeles

Permit	When it applies
Building permit	A surface more than 30 in above the ground needs a permit.
Floodplain development permit	Paving and fill in a FEMA special flood hazard area need a floodplain permit.

Local details

Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.

How to apply

LADBS
ZIMAS parcel and zoning lookup
Phone: 311 (213-473-3231)

Common questions

When does a patio, walkway, or driveway need a building permit in Los Angeles?: A surface more than 30 in above the ground needs a permit. Platforms, walks, and driveways 30 in or less above the ground need no permit in Los Angeles.
Where do I apply for a patio, walkway, or driveway permit in Los Angeles?: Apply through LADBS, or call 311 (213-473-3231).

Sources

LAMC 91.106.2, Work exempt from a permit (Building Code, as amended by Ord. No. 188,797, eff. 12/31/25; American Legal). Checked 2026-10-23
91.106.2. Work exempt from a permit. (Amended by Ord. No. 188,797, Eff. 12/31/25.)... Permits shall not be required for the following: 1. Work regulated by this Code that is valued at $2,500 or less, unless it impacts the structural stability of a building,…
44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...