- Typical cost
- $3,500 – $40,000+ depending on scope and engineering
- Typical timeline
- 3–8 weeks for plans, plus 4–16 weeks of plan check
- Permits through
- Pasadena Permit Center
- Service area
- Pasadena, San Gabriel Valley
What We Prepare
Complete, permit-ready drawing sets coordinated with licensed architects and structural engineers, then walked through the city until the permit is issued.
- Feasibility and zoning review for your parcel
- Architectural plans for remodels, additions and ADUs
- Structural engineering and calculations
- Title 24 energy compliance
- Site plans, surveys and soils coordination
- LADBS or city submittal and correction handling
Permitting & Design Services Conditions in Pasadena
Behind the plaster, these houses need the same things: new supply and drain lines, a full rewire, foundation bolting and real insulation. The craft is making new work read as original, which means matching trim profiles, window proportions and rooflines rather than substituting stock parts. Permits go through the Pasadena Permit Center, and design review timelines need to be built into the schedule.
- Historic and landmark district design review on exterior changes
- 1900 to 1930 Craftsman framing, often unbolted and uninsulated
- Galvanized supply lines and original wiring replacement
- Rot and joist repair under original bathrooms and porches
- Trim, window and roofline matching so additions read as original
Legalizing Unpermitted Work
If you bought a house with an unpermitted garage conversion, addition or second unit, you can often bring it into compliance instead of tearing it out. We document the existing conditions, draw what's there, identify what has to change, and take it through the city.
- As-built documentation of existing conditions
- Code gap analysis and correction scope
- Permit submittal for existing unpermitted work
- Inspection coordination and final sign-off
Why a Builder Should Draw It
Plans drawn without a builder in the room tend to be beautiful and unbuildable at the budget. Because we build what we design, we price as we draw, flag structural and utility costs early, and give you a set the city approves and a crew can actually follow.
- Budget check at every design milestone
- Constructability review before submittal
- Plan check corrections handled by us
- The same team builds it if you go ahead with us
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you do permitting & design services in Pasadena?
Yes. Pasadena is part of our regular service area. We'll come out for a free on-site consultation, walk the property, and tell you what's realistic before you spend anything on design.
What does permitting cost in Pasadena?
$3,500 – $40,000+ depending on scope and engineering. Site conditions in Pasadena and your material selections move the number, which is why we price after walking the property rather than over the phone.
Who issues the permit in Pasadena?
Permits for this work go through Pasadena Permit Center. We handle the submittal, plan check corrections and inspections as part of the project.
How much do architectural plans and permits cost in Los Angeles?
Plans for a kitchen or bathroom remodel typically run $3,500 to $8,000. Additions and ADUs with structural engineering usually land between $12,000 and $25,000, and custom homes or hillside projects run $40,000 and up, plus city fees.
How long does LADBS plan check take?
Simple over-the-counter permits can be same day. Standard plan check for additions and ADUs usually takes 4 to 16 weeks including one or two correction cycles, and hillside or discretionary projects take longer.
Can you legalize an unpermitted addition or garage conversion?
In most cases, yes. We document what exists, identify what has to be corrected to meet current code, and take it through permitting and inspection so it shows up as legal square footage.
Do I have to build with you if you draw my plans?
No. The plans are yours. Most clients do continue with us because the pricing is already built into the design, but you're free to bid the drawings out.
DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT WITH 1 SMART BUILD
Licensed, bonded and insured design-build general contractor serving Los Angeles County and Southern California. Tell us about your property and goals, and we'll walk you through feasibility, permitting and a clear plan.