Planning a remodel or repair in Laguna Hills and not sure where to start with permits? You are not alone. Permits protect your home, your budget, and your future resale. The City has also made the process easier with a fully online system. In this guide, you will learn what needs a permit, how to apply, key timelines and fees, and smart tips to avoid surprises when you buy or sell. Let’s dive in.
Laguna Hills Building & Safety overview
The City of Laguna Hills Building & Safety Division manages plan checks, permits, and inspections for building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, solar, and more. You apply, pay, and schedule inspections through the City’s online permit portal. Start with the City’s Building & Safety Division.
Some projects also require fire review. Laguna Hills partners with the Orange County Fire Authority for fire plan checks and fire inspections. See OCFA’s submittal and fee details on the Planning & Development Services page.
Construction hours in Laguna Hills are Monday to Friday 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with no construction on Sundays or federal holidays. You schedule inspections online or by phone through the City.
Projects that need permits
Common home projects
- Building work such as additions, remodels, structural changes, garage conversions, and ADUs.
- Trade work that affects electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or gas systems.
- Reroofing, water heater replacement, and HVAC replacement typically require trade permits.
- Fences, retaining walls, and accessory structures may need permits depending on height and design.
- Grading and drainage changes require grading permits.
- Rooftop solar and home batteries are permitted, with many systems eligible for SolarAPP+ fast review.
For solar permits, Laguna Hills supports automated plan review for eligible systems. See the City’s SolarAPP+ guidance.
How to get a permit
Step 1: Create your account and apply
Set up your account in the City’s online portal. Register your project, upload your plans, and pay fees when requested. The portal is also where you request inspections and track status.
Step 2: Prepare complete documents
Most projects need a scaled site plan, construction drawings, and any structural calculations. If the work adds or conditions space, include Title 24 Energy Code documents. Some sites or ADUs also need a soils report and OCFA forms. For ADUs, start with the City’s Pre‑Approved ADU Program to see plan sets and the full submittal checklist.
Step 3: Plan review and timelines
Timeframes vary by scope and completeness. Solar systems that qualify for SolarAPP+ can be issued quickly once you upload the SolarAPP+ approval and pay City fees. Larger projects often require one or more correction cycles. Use the portal to see status and respond to comments.
Step 4: Fees and deposits
Permit fees depend on your scope. Some projects also include third‑party fire review fees through OCFA. Covered projects must meet the City’s Construction and Demolition rules. Laguna Hills requires at least 65% waste diversion and collects a refundable deposit for most building permits, typically $0.30 per square foot, with a $100 minimum and $3,750 maximum. See the City’s C&D Waste Recycling Program for details.
Step 5: Inspections and final sign‑off
Schedule inspections as work progresses. Keep approved plans on site. Final inspection closes the permit, and some projects receive a certificate of occupancy when complete.
ADUs in Laguna Hills
Laguna Hills offers pre‑approved ADU plan sets, including studio, 1‑bed, and 2‑bed options. You still submit a full package tailored to your lot, including a site plan, Title 24 energy report, and any required soils or fire forms. Explore the City’s Pre‑Approved ADU Program.
Recent state law encourages pre‑approved ADU plans to speed up processing. See AB 1332’s text for statewide direction on local ADU programs using this bill summary. Always follow the City’s page for current local steps and timelines.
Solar permits the fast way
If your rooftop solar or home battery system qualifies, SolarAPP+ can streamline plan review. Your contractor completes the SolarAPP+ intake, then uploads the approval to the City portal for permit issuance and inspections. Check Laguna Hills’ SolarAPP+ page for eligibility and the step‑by‑step process.
Owner-builder or contractor?
Most permits are pulled by a California‑licensed contractor. You can apply as an owner‑builder in limited cases, but you take on legal and safety responsibilities. The Contractors State License Board explains the risks and documentation you should expect. Review the CSLB’s owner‑builder guidance before you decide.
Avoid headaches when you buy or sell
Check permit history
Before you list or make an offer, check the property’s permit records through the City portal or public records. Ask for documentation showing final inspection and permit closure.
Unpermitted work risks
Unpermitted work can trigger correction orders, fines, or recorded notices until resolved. In some cases, the City may require remediation or removal. The City enforces its building, grading, and fire codes, and OCFA enforces the fire code. See the municipal code’s enforcement framework for details in Laguna Hills Code, Chapter 10.16.
Practical prep checklist
- Verify open and closed permits for past work.
- Budget for plan check, permit fees, and possible C&D deposits.
- Confirm whether OCFA review applies to your project.
- Keep all Title 24, plan sets, and revisions organized in the portal.
- For older unpermitted items, ask the City about paths to legalize.
Quick local rules to note
- Online portal handles applications, payments, and inspections through the City’s Building & Safety Division.
- Construction hours are Monday to Friday 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., none on Sundays or federal holidays.
- Projects must meet California Building Standards, including CALGreen and the Energy Code. See state updates for Title 24 at the California Building Standards Commission.
- C&D waste diversion is at least 65% for covered permits, with a refundable deposit. Details are on the City’s C&D Waste page.
- Fire plan checks and fees are handled by OCFA for qualifying projects via the OCFA Planning & Development Services page.
If you are gearing up for a project or preparing to buy or sell, we can help you make a clean plan. For calm, local guidance on permit checks and pre‑list prep, reach out to Kitty Platt.
FAQs
Do I need a permit for my Laguna Hills project?
- If your project changes structure, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, grading, or adds new space, it likely needs a permit. When in doubt, contact the City’s Building & Safety Division.
How long does plan review take in Laguna Hills?
- It depends on scope and completeness. Some small permits move fast, and eligible solar permits can issue quickly through SolarAPP+ once uploaded with City fees paid.
What are Laguna Hills construction hours?
- Construction is allowed Monday to Friday 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and not allowed on Sundays or federal holidays.
Can I pull my own permit as a homeowner?
- Yes, in limited owner‑builder cases for owner‑occupied single‑family homes, but you assume legal responsibilities. Review CSLB’s owner‑builder guidance before proceeding.
What should I do about unpermitted work I discover?
- Contact Building & Safety to discuss how to legalize the work. Be ready for inspections, plan submittals, and possible corrective work; the City has enforcement tools if issues remain unresolved.
