City of Los Angeles or somewhere else?
An address that says Los Angeles is not always in the City of Los Angeles. Many neighborhoods belong to independent cities or unincorporated county areas. If your notice came from LADBS, use its website to research permits and case records. If it came from another city or a county agency, use that agency's official site.
Common Los Angeles situations
- Unpermitted garage conversions or accessory dwelling units
- Additions, decks, and retaining walls built without permits
- Hillside and grading-related concerns
- Seismic retrofit requirements for certain building types, where applicable
- Fences, walls, and structures in required yards
Legalizing existing work
Some unpermitted work can be legalized through the permit process, often with plans documenting existing conditions and inspections that may require opening finishes. Other work may need to be removed. The issuing department determines what applies.
How to get help
Notice of Violation provides information about building, permit, and code notices. We are not a contractor, a law firm, or a government agency. When you send us your notice and a description of the situation, we review your inquiry.
Before hiring anyone, confirm their license and insurance with the appropriate licensing authority and get the scope of work in writing.
Deadlines remain your responsibility
Response deadlines, hearing dates, and correction periods are set by the issuing authority and printed on the notice. Requesting help does not pause or extend them. If a deadline is close, contact the issuing office directly and consider speaking with a licensed attorney about your options.