City of Lawndale, CA

Who Can Obtain a Permit?

Building & Planning permits can be issued to:

1. Property owner whose job site is their principal residence and has occupied said property for twelve months before the completion of the work.
2. Licensed contractor through the Contractor State License Board ("CSLB")

When a permit is pulled, the signature and identity of the applicant must be verified. A California driver's license, State of California Identification Card, or other identification will meet this requirement. 

Look Up Contractor Information

Residents can visit the CSLB website to search for a contractor's license or view a database of registered contractors in the state.

Owner-Builder Requirements

If a property owner is planning to pull building permits for their property, they must meet the following criteria:

• Owner-Builder minimum requirements:
1. Subject address must be their primary residence
2. The property owner must reside on the property for a minimum of twelve months before they can apply for building permits
3. Provide a valid copy of their driver's license
4. Provide a copy of a recent utility bill (trash, water, gas, electricity) under their name
5. Fill out and turn in an Owner-Builder Declaration Form

Note: These requirements do not apply to Planning Permits.

Licensed Contractor Requirements

When pulling permits, a licensed contractor must provide documents and information to the Building & Safety Department.

• Required documents from licensed contractors:
1. A valid copy of their contractor's license
2. A valid copy of their driver's license/ID
3. Proof of having an active city-issued business license
4. Complete a Licensed Contractor Declaration form
5. Workman's compensation documents
6. If using an authorized agent, a notarized letter of authorization on the company letterhead
7. If using an authorized agent, a copy of the agent's driver's license/ID