Permit Costs

Fencing Permit Costs in Los Angeles

How much may a fence permit cost in Los Angeles? LADBS fee structure and what to expect.

Los Angeles Fence Permit Costs — What to Expect

Fence permit costs in Los Angeles are generally determined by LADBS based on the project valuation, type of construction, and whether plan review is required. Simple fence projects may have modest permit fees, while masonry wall projects requiring structural plan review typically involve higher costs. Permit fees may change over time, so always confirm current fees with LADBS or use the LADBS Permit Fee Calculator at 08web15.lacity.org/fee_est_dir for the most up-to-date estimate.

Zermit AI can also help give you a general sense of expected permit costs before you begin your LADBS application.

Common Fence Permit Fee Categories

The following are typical categories of fence permits in Los Angeles. Fees within each category vary based on project valuation and scope.

• Wood or lightweight fence permit (side/rear yard, within height limits): generally lower fee, may qualify

for express permit processing

• Masonry or concrete block wall permit: typically a moderate fee based on wall dimensions and

valuation, generally requires plan check

• Pool safety fence permit: fee generally based on project valuation
• Retaining wall permit: fee typically based on wall height and length; may require a structural plan check
• Electric or automated gate permit: generally includes a building permit component and a separate

electrical permit component

• HPOZ fence: may involve City Planning review fees in addition to the LADBS building permit fee

Express Permits and Potentially Lower Fees

Qualifying fence projects may be eligible for the LADBS express permit process, which can generally be processed without a full plan check. According to LADBS express permit guidelines, concrete block masonry fence walls up to 6 feet in residential zones meeting specific criteria, and non-masonry pool safety fences meeting current standards, may qualify. Express permits are typically processed at lower cost and more quickly than plan check projects. Eligibility should be confirmed with LADBS as criteria may change.

Plan Check Fees for Masonry Walls and Complex Projects

Masonry fence and wall projects that do not qualify for express permits typically require a Counter Plan Check or Regular Plan Check at LADBS, which involves additional plan review fees. The total permit cost for these projects generally includes a building permit fee based on project valuation plus a plan check fee.

Projects requiring structural engineering calculations add the cost of engineering services to the overall project budget.

Additional Costs to Budget For

• Structural engineering fees for walls that may require engineering calculations
• HPOZ design review fees if the property is in a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone
• City Planning variance or Conditional Use Permit fees if the fence may exceed applicable height limits
• Separate electrical permit fee for electric gates and automated systems
• Re-inspection fees if corrections are identified during inspection
• Revocable permit fee from the Bureau of Engineering if the fence may extend into the public

right-of-way

Need Help With Your Fencing Permit? Describe your fence project at app.zermit.ai and Zermit AI will help identify which Los Angeles permits may be required, expected timelines, and documentation you may need to prepare.

Looking for a Licensed Fencing Contractor in Los Angeles? Explore licensed contractors on zermit.ai/contractors who may be able to assist with permitted fence and wall installations in Los Angeles.