Is Building a New Home in Los Angeles Really Take That Long?
Building a home in Los Angeles is a dream for many—but that dream can quickly start to feel like a never-ending to-do list. Between zoning, permits, and construction, you might be wondering: Does it really take that long to build in LA?
The short answer is: Yes, it can.
But the long answer? It’s complicated—and manageable with the right plan and help.
Let’s walk through the full timeline, from concept to move-in, so you know what to expect.
🕒 LA Homebuilding Timeline Overview
Phase 1: Pre-Construction (6–12 Months)
This is where the real groundwork begins—not with a shovel, but with research, plans, and city paperwork.
1.1 Feasibility and Zoning Review (1–2 Months)
Before you build anything, you need to know what’s allowed. LA’s zoning rules are detailed and site-specific.
Key factors reviewed:
Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
Setback and height limits
Slope/hillside overlays or special plans
Historical and environmental restrictions
Tip: A land use consultant or zoning expert can help you avoid costly mistakes at this stage.
Architecture and Design (2–4 Months)
Once you know what’s possible, you’ll work with an architect to draft your home’s layout and look. This includes:
Site plan and floor plan
Engineering (structural, MEP, soils, etc.)
Energy and green building requirements (Title 24)
1.3 Permitting and Plan Check (3–6 Months)
This part often takes longer than expected. Your plans must go through:
Planning Department (if needed)
LADBS Plan Check
Public Works, Fire, and other departments
Corrections and resubmittals (usually 1–2 rounds)
For by-right homes with no variances, it could take ~3 months. But hillside homes or homes in special zones could take up to 6+ months.
Phase 2: Construction (9–18 Months)
Now that you have your permits, construction begins. But even here, delays can happen.
2.1 Site Work and Foundation (1–2 Months)
Grading and soil prep
Utilities and trenching
Foundation pouring
This phase varies depending on topography and lot conditions. Hillside or narrow lots = slower start.
2.2 Framing and Structure (2–4 Months)
Wood/steel framing
Roofing and waterproofing
Window and door installation
Your home starts taking shape in this stage, often called the “shell” or “dry-in” phase.
2.3 Rough-Ins and Systems (1–3 Months)
Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas lines
Fire sprinklers and alarm systems
Inspections between each major step
LA requires multiple inspections at this stage, which can slow things down if schedules don’t align.
2.4 Finishes and Exterior (3–6 Months)
Drywall, tile, cabinetry, painting
Flooring, fixtures, final appliances
Driveway, fencing, and landscaping
Most delays at this point come from subcontractor coordination, backordered materials, or weather.
Phase 3: Final Inspections and Move-In (1–2 Months)
After construction, your team schedules final inspections with LADBS and other departments. Once everything clears, you receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CofO).
No CofO = no legal move-in.
This process is usually straightforward, but small corrections (like missing signage or incomplete landscaping) can trigger delays.
So, How Long Does It All Take?
Let’s put it all together:
| Phase | Time Range |
|---|---|
| Feasibility + Design | 2–6 months |
| Permitting | 3–6 months |
| Construction | 9–18 months |
| Final Inspections | 1–2 months |
| TOTAL | 18–36 months |
📋 LA Homebuilding Checklist
Why Does it Feel So Slow in LA?
There are some unique reasons why homebuilding takes time in Los Angeles:
Multi-Agency Permitting
Your plans often need to clear 5+ departments. One correction can hold up the entire process.
Hillside and Fire Zones
LA has many properties in hillside, seismic, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). These areas require extra reviews and construction measures.
Contractor and Inspector Bottlenecks
Many builders juggle multiple jobs, and LADBS inspections often book out weeks in advance.
Material and Labor Delays
Even with a good crew, delays in window delivery, tile, cabinetry, or HVAC components can bring work to a halt.
How to Build Smarter in LA
While you can’t remove all delays, here’s how to streamline your project:
Hire a local team: Your architect, builder, and permit consultant should all be experienced with LA codes and workflows.
Start with a zoning study: This ensures your design aligns with what’s legally allowed.
Work with a permit expediter: These pros know how to move your plans through the city faster.
Expect delays—and budget for them: Add 15–20% buffer for time and cost.
Explore faster-track options: Pre-approved ADUs or modular homes may reduce red tape.
Ready to Build Your Dream Home in LA?
At JDJ Consulting Group, we help homeowners and developers streamline land use, zoning approvals, and permitting in Los Angeles County. Whether you’re building on a flat lot or a hillside with fire-risk constraints, our experts help cut through the delays.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can simplify the LA homebuilding process and keep your project moving forward. Call us at (818) 233-0750 or contact us online to get started!
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