Understanding Al Fresco Permit Fee Subsidy Los Angeles

Why Was It Introduced?

This program started as a temporary response during COVID-19. When restaurants were forced to shut down indoor dining, LA launched Al Fresco to let them operate outside. It was a quick fix—but it worked so well that the city decided to make it permanent.

Now, LA wants businesses to transition from temporary authorization (TUA) to a full, permanent entitlement—and they’re offering this subsidy to help cover the high permitting costs.

Who Can Qualify for the Al Fresco Fee Subsidy Program?

Not every business qualifies automatically. The subsidy specifically helps restaurants located in the Coastal Zone that need a Coastal Development Permit (CDP). If you’re unsure whether your business qualifies, our land use experts at JDJ Consulting can help you assess eligibility.

Here’s a quick eligibility checklist:

Tip from JDJ: Because CDP reviews can take up to a year, it’s best to start the process as early as possible.

What If You’re Not in the Coastal Zone?

If your business is outside the Coastal Zone, you may not be eligible for the $10,000 CDP subsidy. However, you could still benefit from other Al Fresco fast-track permitting programs or incentives. JDJ Consulting can help you explore alternate programs based on your site’s zoning and entitlement status.

How the Al Fresco Permit Subsidy Works in Los Angeles

This isn’t a blanket discount—it’s a structured reimbursement program. Here’s how it works:

• The City of Los Angeles will pay up to $10,000 of your CDP fees.

• Additional $2,500 fee waivers may apply for LADBS plan check and permit fees.

• It’s first-come, first-served, and funds are limited.

• The subsidy applies only after the city confirms your eligibility.

Breakdown of Available Relief

Important Deadlines

• CDP Filing Deadline: Must be submitted by June 30, 2026

• TUA Holders: Must receive final CDP clearance by January 31, 2026

• Review Timeline: City Planning may take 9–12 months to process the CDP

Need help tracking these deadlines? JDJ Consulting can manage your entire Al Fresco permitting timeline—from pre-application to final certificate of occupancy.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Al Fresco Permit Fee Subsidy in LA

Understanding the city’s permit process isn’t always easy—especially in the Coastal Zone. That’s why we recommend following this step-by-step process or working with an experienced land use consultant like JDJ Consulting Group.

Here’s how it works:

1st Step: Check Your Temporary Authorization and Location

• Make sure your business has an approved Temporary Use Authorization (TUA) under the Al Fresco program.

• Confirm your location is within the California Coastal Zone. (We use tools like ZIMAS and CPADs to verify this for clients.)

2nd Step: Prepare a CDP Application

• Complete the Coastal Development Permit (CDP) application, including site plans, elevations, and other technical documents.

• For help with CEQA forms, JDJ offers in-house guidance to streamline the paperwork.

3rd Step: Schedule a DSC Appointment on BuildLA

• Use BuildLA.org to book an appointment with the Development Services Center (DSC).

• During your appointment, the DSC will review eligibility and explain next steps.

4rd Step: Receive Eligibility Confirmation

• If you’re approved, the city will apply up to $10,000 directly toward your permit fee during the intake process.

• You may also qualify for the LADBS fee waiver of $1,250 (plan check) + $1,250 (permit).

5th Step: Submit Permit Plans to LADBS

• Submit your stamped plans to LADBS for review. Plan check timelines vary.

• JDJ Consulting ensures your plans meet ADA, zoning, and building code requirements.

6th Step: Go Through City Review and CEQA

• Planning reviews your CDP and circulates it to other departments for comments.

• CEQA review will apply, even for small projects. We help clients minimize CEQA delays.

7th Step: Get Final Approval and Occupancy Clearance

• Once your permit is approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Occupancy.

• Congrats—your Al Fresco space is now permanent.

How Much Can You Really Save with the Al Fresco Permit Subsidy?

Permit fees in Los Angeles aren’t cheap—especially when a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) is required. That’s why this subsidy matters so much for small businesses.

Here’s a realistic look at what restaurant owners can expect to pay:

Typical Coastal Development Permit Costs

Pro tip from JDJ: Some applicants qualify for additional CEQA streamlining, saving even more. Ask us how.

Why Is the City Offering a Permit Fee Subsidy for Al Fresco Dining?

This isn’t just about helping restaurants save money—it’s about long-term community benefits. Los Angeles wants to encourage more vibrant, walkable neighborhoods, especially after what the city learned during the pandemic.

Here’s why this program exists:

A. It Supports Local Economic Recovery

• Outdoor dining kept thousands of small businesses open during lockdowns.

• Studies show outdoor seating increases sales tax revenue and boosts nearby retail traffic.

B. It Improves Public Spaces

• Outdoor patios encourage people to linger, shop, and engage with their community.

• Permanent Al Fresco spaces lead to cleaner, safer sidewalks when well-managed.

C. It Aligns with the California Coastal Act

• In the Coastal Zone, land-use regulations must support public access, recreational use, and economic opportunity.

• The subsidy helps balance those goals by allowing affordable dining without restricting coastal access.