Inspections
Building Inspections
All permitted projects require an inspection by a Building and Safety Division Inspector to ensure that a project is constructed according to approved plans and minimum code requirements. Jobsites must be available for Inspection Services from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Virtual inspections are also offered for eligible inspection types. To scheduled an inspection or view a project's inspection history please visit the Online Inspection Scheduling System.
Each morning, inspection window times for the day's scheduled inspections can be viewed on the Scheduled Permit Inspections page. Some FAQs for inspections can be found here.
Before requesting a final Building and Safety Inspection, you may need to contact the following for Inspection:
Before scheduling a Building Inspection you will also need to turn in your Contractors City Business License Release Form to the Business License Division.
Special Inspections
In addition to the inspections required by Section 108, some construction projects require that a deputy inspector verifies specific aspects of the construction and that the specifications conform to the approved drawings. The deputy inspector is required to report these observations in writing, on an approved special inspection report form to the building official at regular intervals.
Special (Deputy) Inspections are required for:
- Concrete Strength > 2,500 psi, Shotcrete
- Reinforcement in structural decks
- Drilled in Anchors
- Field Welding or Shop Welding in a non-approved fabricator shop (includes steel stud)
- High strength bolts
- Sprayed-on fire proofing
- Pilings – caissons
- Masonry
- Wood diaphrams and sheerwalls with nailing 4 inches on center or less
- Special cases as directed by the Building Official
Deputy Inspectors must report to the Division either by phone or in person to be added to the building permit. Deputy Inspection reports WILL NOT be accepted if received from a non-registered deputy or if the deputy did not check in prior to reporting to the site.
Deputy Inspectors
The Architect, Engineer, or Owner on a project is responsible for arranging for special inspections. Deputy Inspectors must have a valid City of Los Angeles Certification for the field of work to be inspected. Deputy inspectors must also be registered with the City of Santa Monica Building and Safety Division prior to working in the City.
List of registered special (deputy) inspectors
Register as a Deputy Inspector
Deputy inspector registration is valid for 2 years from date of payment. After two years inspectors will need to provide the Building & Safety Division with updated LA City certifications and reapply as a deputy inspector.
A successful application for deputy inspector includes the following: