Permitting FAQ

Pico Rivera Virtual City Hall offers a range of benefits that make accessing City services faster, easier, and more convenient such as

1. Access Services 24/7: With an account, you can access City services anytime, from anywhere—whether it's paying bills, submitting requests, applying for permits and so on.
2. Track Your Requests and Payments: Easily view the status of any service requests or payments you've made. This gives you peace of mind and keeps all your interactions with the City in one place.
3. Save Time: No need to re-enter your information for every request or transaction. Your details are securely stored, making future interactions quick and easy.
4. Stay Informed: Receive important updates, announcements, and notifications about City services and so on.

Yes, creating an online account will provide you with access to a dashboard linking to all your applications. You may view your zoning, plan check and permit applications through your Permits dashboard. You need not remember your application number or permit number to access the information as your details are stored securely and available to you on your online account profile. You will also receive notifications on approval of your permits, when fees are due, and reminders on any upcoming application or permit expirations.

For applications submitted via the Pico Rivera Virtual City Hall Portal on or after February 1, 2025, statuses can be viewed on your Permits dashboard.

If you have submitted a permit application before January 31st, 2025, please get in touch with the City for status updates at (562) 801-4367.

Whether or not your application goes through a plan check or zoning review process depends on the type of application you’re submitting. Typically, applications related to construction, remodeling, or certain types of permits (like electrical, plumbing, or structural changes) will undergo a plan check. If it's a simpler application (like paying fees or submitting a request for non-structural changes), a plan check might not be necessary.

Plan Checks and Zoning Reviews are a process where City officials review the plans to ensure they meet building codes, safety standards, zoning laws, and other regulations. Please contact the City at (562) 801-4367 for more information.

The fees for obtaining a permit can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of permit you're applying for, the project's scope, and the work's valuation. Separate fees may apply for permits requiring plan checks or zoning review processes before issuing permits. Inspection fees may also be applicable for any extraordinary inspections required by City inspectors to verify that the work meets building codes and regulations.

Please contact the City at (562) 801-4367 for more information.

The need for a permit for work on a residential property depends on several factors, including the scope of the project, the building codes applicable for the City of Pico Rivera, and the type of work you’re planning. Here are a few general guidelines to help you determine if you need a permit:

1. Type of Work
   • Structural Changes: If you're planning to alter the structure of the building, such as knocking down walls, adding or removing load-bearing walls, or changing the roofline, you will likely need a permit.
   • Electrical/Plumbing: Any work involving electrical systems or plumbing almost always requires a permit. This includes installing new outlets, rewiring circuits, or changing plumbing fixtures.
   • HVAC Systems: Installing or modifying heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems requires a permit.
   • Home Additions or Major Remodels: Adding a new room, a garage, or extending your home requires permits for both the construction and potentially for zoning.
   • Demolition: If you plan to demolish a structure or part of your home, even interior demolition, a permit is necessary.
   • Fencing: A permit is required for all fencing to ensure compliance with height and setback requirements.
2. Cosmetic Changes or Minor Repairs
   • Painting, Flooring, or Cosmetic Updates: In most cases, non-structural cosmetic changes don’t require permits. However, it's always a good idea to check.
   • Window Replacement: If you’re replacing windows in the same size and location, you might not need a permit, but if the size or style changes, a permit may be required.

You may request an extension by calling the City’s Building Division (562) 801-4367 for Building Permits and Public Work Department for permits for constructions in Public Right-of-Way. Please note extension fees may apply and an extension is not guaranteed depending on the status of the project (e.g. if the application is expired) and duration.

The expiration period for an approved plan or permit can vary based on the type of permit or approval, as well as the City’s regulations. Building permits expire 1 year from the date of issuance if construction has not started or if work is not progressing. Construction plans expire 6 months from the date of approval if no permits have been issued. For more information, contact the City’s Building Division (562) 801-4367 for Building Permits and the Public Works Department for permits for construction in Public Right-of-Way.