Self-Certification Program – City of Los Angeles

The Self-Certification Program in Los Angeles allows licensed professionals—such as architects and engineers—to bypass traditional plan check reviews for eligible projects by certifying that their plans comply with all applicable codes.

This program accelerates the permitting process for simple or low-risk projects, helping the city reduce backlog and improve turnaround time for applicants.

🔍 What Is the Self-Certification Program?

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) runs the Self-Certification Program to streamline permits for certain types of construction projects.

Under this program:

• Eligible professionals certify that their project complies with building, zoning, and safety codes.

• LADBS skips in-depth plan check, issuing the permit faster.

• Participants are held fully responsible for code compliance.

🧑‍💼 Who Can Participate?

To participate, you must:

• Be a California-licensed architect or civil/structural engineer

• Complete the mandatory training provided by LADBS

• Maintain a clean disciplinary record

• Submit projects within the eligible scope

🏗️ What Types of Projects Qualify?

Generally, non-complex, small-scale projects may be eligible. Examples include:

• Tenant improvements

• Interior alterations (commercial and residential)

• Office reconfigurations

• Small retail upgrades

• Projects with no structural changes or egress modifications

❗ New buildings, additions, or major structural alterations typically do not qualify.

Each project must be reviewed by LADBS to confirm eligibility before proceeding with self-certification.

📋 Requirements for Self-Certification

Participants must:

1. Register with LADBS and attend official training

2. Use approved plan templates and checklists

3. Submit all documentation digitally through the LADBS PermitLA system

4. Sign a Self-Certification Declaration, taking full legal and professional responsibility

LADBS reserves the right to audit or revoke permits if non-compliance is found.

🚀 Benefits of Self-Certification

⚠️ Risks & Considerations

• Non-compliant work may result in fines, stop-work orders, or license discipline

• Random audits may be conducted by LADBS

• Not suitable for projects involving fire/life safety systems, major mechanical changes, or structural modifications

🧠 How to Get Started

1. Visit the LADBS Self-Certification page

2. Enroll in the training (offered periodically)

3. Complete and submit the Self-Certification Agreement

4. Start submitting eligible projects through the PermitLA portal

🔄 Alternative: Express Permit Program

If your project is not eligible for self-certification, you may still benefit from LADBS’s:

• ePlanLA (digital plan review system)

• Over-the-counter Express Permit Program (for minor alterations)

📝 Final Thoughts

The Self-Certification Program is an excellent option for qualified professionals working on straightforward projects in Los Angeles. It speeds up permitting, supports responsible practitioners, and frees up city resources for more complex reviews.

But with great power comes great responsibility: ensure your designs meet every applicable code, and always document your compliance thoroughly.

Would you like help determining if your project qualifies for self-certification, or assistance submitting through LADBS? I can provide a checklist or step-by-step guide—just let me know!