LADBS states that the current owner is responsible for resolving an Order to Comply even when prior owners or tenants performed the unpermitted work. The viable path depends on the actual property and order.
01
Confirm what is approved on record
Compare the current physical configuration with available permits, certificates, plans and assessor or zoning information. A missing online record is a research question, not automatic proof that every condition is illegal.
- Certificate of Occupancy and permit history.
- Approved use, unit count and floor-area records.
- Existing plans or prior correction documents.
- Current Order to Comply or Notice of Substandard Conditions.
02
Define the exact unpermitted condition
Legalization is not a generic service. A converted garage, added dwelling unit, enclosed patio, structural alteration or occupancy change can trigger different planning, building, fire, parking, utility and habitability questions.
- When and how the work was created.
- Current use and occupancy.
- Relationship to property lines and existing buildings.
- Visible structural, fire, egress, electrical and plumbing conditions.
03
Test feasibility before full design
A qualified team may need to evaluate zoning, setbacks, allowable use, structural configuration and life-safety requirements before an owner invests in complete drawings. Legalization may require opening concealed work or rebuilding portions to current requirements.
- Planning and zoning fit.
- Applicable building standard or special statutory pathway.
- Utility and service capacity.
- Correction budget compared with removal or restoration.
04
Build the permit and construction team
Depending on scope, the owner may need an architect or designer, structural engineer, general contractor and classified specialty contractors. The City—not the private team—approves plans and inspections.
- Existing-condition drawings and supporting documents.
- Plan check and agency clearances.
- Permit issuance before required construction.
- Inspections of exposed or corrected work.
05
Treat AB 2533 as a pathway, not a blanket amnesty
Certain pre-2020 unpermitted ADUs or JADUs may have a specific California and Los Angeles pathway, including an optional confidential pre-application inspection described by current LADBS guidance. Eligibility and the required corrections remain property-specific.
- Verify the claimed construction timeline.
- Use the current LADBS bulletin.
- Do not assume every multifamily or attached condition qualifies for streamlined treatment.
- Keep private screening separate from required permits and City inspections.
Official references
Verify the current City process.
Agency requirements can change. The notice for the specific property and current agency guidance control over this general guide.