Space Planning, Design & Permits for California Tenant Improvements

Test fits, Title 24 and 11B-compliant permit drawings and plan check management for California build-outs.

Start with a test fit

A test fit shows whether your program fits a space and what has to change. In California it also reveals early how much accessibility upgrade work a space may need, which can change the economics of a lease.

What California plan check looks for

Permit sets in California include an architectural code analysis, floor and exit plans, CBC Chapter 11B accessibility details, Title 24 Part 6 energy compliance forms for lighting and mechanical work, CALGreen requirements and MEP drawings. Fire sprinkler and alarm changes are usually separate fire department submittals.

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
San Francisco: Department of Building Inspection, with planning review where use changes.
San Diego: Development Services Department.
Other cities and counties each run their own plan check.

Extra approvals in special areas

Exterior changes in the coastal zone, such as parts of Malibu, Coronado and other beach cities, may require coastal development review. South Lake Tahoe projects can need Tahoe Regional Planning Agency review. Historic districts in many cities add design review. We identify every approval before design is finished.

Shortening plan check

Complete, coordinated drawings and fast, thorough responses to comments are what shorten plan check. Some cities offer expedited review for a fee. We price and order long-lead items while plans are in review.