Getting a construction project off the ground in Long Beach means more than just developing plans and putting together a crew — it means navigating a permitting process that can feel like a project of its own. From retail buildouts and multifamily developments to backyard upgrades, most work in the city requires official approval before it begins.
This complete guide walks you through the essentials of getting a permit at Long Beach, California: which projects require permits, the application process, permit fees, and tips to keep your project running smoothly.
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What requires a building permit in Long Beach?
In Long Beach, you need a permit for most construction-related activities that affect the structure, systems, or safety of a building, including both new construction and renovations.
According to the Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau, common projects requiring permits include:
- New residential or commercial construction
- Tenant improvements and remodels
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC system changes
- Demolition
- Roofing and solar panel installations
- Decks, patios, and fences (above specific thresholds)
- Garage conversions and ADUs
What doesn’t require a permit?
- Detached accessory structures (sheds, playhouses) <120 sq ft & <8 ft high, without any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical
- Fences <6 ft 6 in tall (wood, vinyl, wrought iron, etc.)
- Retaining walls or planter boxes <4 ft high, not supporting surcharge or sloping earth
- Reroofing <100 sq ft on existing roofs per 12-month period
- Painting, wall/floor coverings, and similar minor interior decoration
- Window awnings projecting <54 in without additional support
- Wall veneer <48 in high
Always consult with the city in-person or via the Long Beach permit portal to confirm whether your project requires a permit.
Long Beach building permit cost
Long Beach building permit fees are generally based on project valuation, square footage, and scope of work. Your final cost will vary depending on how many disciplines are involved (structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical).
Building permit fees
Additional fees & fines
To get more information on fees related to your specific project, refer to the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
Long Beach trade permits
Long Beach trade permits are required for any work involving electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, or similar systems — even if the work is part of a larger construction project.
Plumbing permits
A plumbing permit is required for:
- Water heater installations
- Sewer line repairs or replacements
- New bathroom or kitchen plumbing
- Gas line installations
Long Beach plumbing permit costs
To get more information, refer to the Plumbing Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
Electrical permits
You’ll need an electrical permit for:
- New circuits or subpanels
- Panel upgrades
- EV charger installations
- Solar panel systems (PV permits)
Long Beach electrical permit costs
To find more information on electrical fees, refer to the Electrical Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
HVAC permits
Required for any mechanical system installations:
- Furnace or AC unit installs
- Mini-split systems
- Ductwork changes
- Exhaust fan additions
HVAC permit costs
If you need more information on HVAC fees for your project, refer to the Mechanical Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
Roofing permits
You must obtain a roofing permit if:
- More than 10% of roof covering is being replaced
- Decking is being altered
- Insulation is being added under Title 24 requirements
Roofing permit costs
Find more fees connected to roofing permits on the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
Fence permits
Fences over 6 feet or retaining walls over 4 feet high require permitting and zoning clearance.
Fence permit costs
Find more fees connected to fence permits on the Building Permit & Plan Check Fees page.
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How to apply for a building permit in Long Beach
Step 1: Prepare your application
Before applying for a building permit, you have to collect:
- Completed Long Beach building permit form
- Complete Plan Set - combine architectural, structural, and trade (MEP) drawings into ONE single-PDF (or bring PDF files on USB)
- Supporting documents - include Title 24 energy compliance forms, structural calculations, and any required zoning or fire-department approvals
Step 2: Submit your permit
At this stage, get your Long Beach building permit application, plan set, and other supporting documents, and submit them:
- Online via the City’s Accela-powered Online Permit Center (“Apply For A Building Permit” section)
- In-person at the Development Permit Center (411 W. Ocean Blvd., 2nd Floor) during walk-in hours (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 8 am–4 pm; Wed 9 am–4 pm)
Step 3: Plan review
Staff will check your application for completeness; incomplete submittals are returned the same day. You’ll receive “check-sheets” with required corrections; resubmit revisions digitally via the portal.
Step 4: Pay final fees
After final approval, you’ll be invoiced in the portal for:
- Building permit valuation fees
- Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical)
- Any specialty fees (e.g. NPDES, accessibility)
Step 5: Begin work and schedule inspections
At this stage, you should post the permit placard visibly at the job site as well as schedule inspections (footing, framing, trades rough-ins, final) via the portal or by calling the Inspection Line.
Long Beach permitting resources
- Long Beach Building and Safety Bureau
- Address: 333 W. Ocean Blvd., 4th Floor, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Phone: (562) 570-7648
- Email: LBCD@longbeach.gov
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Building Permits Overview
- Long Beach permit portal
- Fees:
- Long Beach building permit form
- Fee Schedules
- Plan Review Service
- Applications & Forms
Simplify permitting in Long Beach with PermitFlow
Struggling to make sense of Long Beach’s permitting process? Between city regulations, paperwork, and approval timelines, getting a building permit can quickly turn into a full-time job — especially if you’re managing multiple projects or working in Long Beach for the first time.
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Contractors and builders choose PermitFlow because we provide:
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Don't let permits delay your project. Contact us today to learn how PermitFlow can keep your work on schedule.
