Long Beach describes a local ADU process with in-person plan submission, same-day plan-check fee payment, and concurrent Planning and Engineering review. Its separate over-the-counter (OTC) service may be available for some ADUs, but the City directs applicants to additional eligibility rules. Check both current pages before preparing a visit.
Clear planning requirements before building submittal
The City asks applicants to review its ADU planning bulletin before applying for a building permit. A property in a Historic District may need a Certificate of Appropriateness. A property in the Coastal Zone must obtain an administrative Local Coastal Development Permit before submitting the building-permit application.
Long Beach’s ADU page says the City is administering state ADU law directly while a new local ordinance is in development. Its online guidance may change with state law and local updates, so confirm the current rule and required planning steps for the property.
Submit plans and follow concurrent review
According to the City’s current ADU page, construction documents and related permit applications must be submitted in person at the Permit Center; online submissions are not available. Bring the permit application and a complete set of plans as a digital PDF on a USB drive. Applicable plan-check fees are due the same day.
After the plan-check fee is paid, a Planner and Engineer are assigned to review the plans concurrently. The City provides written notice of missing items or corrections. Resubmit revised plans to both reviewers and monitor the City’s plan-check status page. The ADU page does not state a standard review duration or a complete fee total. After approval, follow the ready-to-issue notice, pay permit fees, and obtain the permit in person. Schedule required construction inspections online as directed by Building & Safety.
Confirm whether the project qualifies for OTC review
The OTC webpage lists ADUs as an example of a minor project that may use an in-person plan-review service. It also lists one-story residential additions and relocation of 50 or fewer fire-sprinkler heads. This wording does not mean every ADU qualifies. The City points to Information Bulletin IB-002 for the full list of eligible projects and the agencies involved. The webpage says projects in a Historic District, in the Coastal Zone, or involving major structural engineering are not eligible for the ADU OTC option.
OTC submissions are handled in person at the Permit Center, and appointments are available under the City’s stated schedule. The page limits each appointment to one project processed and reviewed per visit. It does not promise same-visit approval or specify an ADU review time. Confirm the current bulletin, project eligibility, participating agencies, fees, and appointment requirements before selecting this route.