Do I Need a Permit to Remodel My Bathroom in LA?
Yes — almost every bathroom remodel in LA needs a permit. Total permit cost for a $15K–$30K bathroom remodel runs $800–$1,800. Vanity-only swaps may be exempt.
- LADBS requires a permit for any bathroom remodel that moves fixtures, adds electrical, or changes walls under LAMC §91.106.
- Same-location vanity swap with no plumbing relocation is permit-exempt.
- Typical $15,000–$30,000 bathroom remodel: $800–$1,800 total in permit fees.
- Moving the toilet, tub, or shower drain is the biggest plan-check trigger.
- GFCI outlets at every bathroom receptacle are mandatory.
- Tempered glass required at shower enclosures and within 5 feet of any tub.
- Anti-scald mixing valves required on all new shower/tub valves.
What triggers a bathroom permit in LA
Most bathroom remodels include at least one permit trigger. Under LAMC §91.106, a permit is required any time the work involves structural, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical changes.
Moving fixtures
Relocating the toilet, tub, or shower drain is the most common plan-check trigger. New drain lines need slope verification, vent sizing, and a pressure test before close-up.
New electrical work
Adding new GFCI outlets, recessed lights, or a new exhaust fan circuit all require an electrical permit. LA code mandates GFCI protection at every bathroom receptacle and dedicated circuits for fan/light combinations.
Tub-to-shower conversions
Converting a tub to a curbless shower (or vice versa) changes the drain location, the waterproofing membrane, and possibly the framing. Always requires a plumbing permit and waterproofing inspection. Curbless designs may trigger ADA accessibility review.
What you can do without a permit
- Replacing the vanity in the same location, no plumbing relocation
- New tile on existing dry walls and floor (wet areas may trigger inspection)
- Painting and wallpaper
- Direct fixture swaps — faucet for faucet, toilet for toilet in same location, showerhead replacement
- Towel bars, mirrors, accessories
Not sure if your bathroom scope needs a permit?
Use the Permit360 scope guide — answer a few yes/no questions about what you’re changing and we’ll tell you exactly which permits apply.
How much the permit costs
For a $20,000 bathroom remodel in LA:
- Building Permit: ~$290
- Plan Check (90% of building permit fee): ~$260
- Plumbing Permit: ~$100
- Electrical Permit: ~$80
- State surcharges: ~$35
- Approximate total: $750–$900
Use the Permit360 fee calculator for an exact estimate for your project valuation. For context on how LADBS calculates building permit fees, see how much an LADBS building permit costs in 2026.
Key code requirements for bathrooms
- GFCI protection at every receptacle
- Anti-scald mixing valves on all new shower and tub valves (per LAPC)
- Tempered glass at shower enclosures and within 5 feet of any tub
- Mechanical ventilation required for windowless bathrooms — either an exhaust fan ducted outside or a code-compliant window
- Waterproofing membrane behind tile in wet areas — common inspection failure
What happens if you skip the permit
The Code Violation Inspection Fee under LAMC §98.0421 is $356 per scope. Retroactive permitting under LAMC §91.107.5.1 charges 2× the original fee. And unpermitted plumbing work that floods a unit can trigger insurance denial. For the full breakdown, see what happens if you remodel without a permit in Los Angeles.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to just replace the vanity?
No, if the new vanity sits in the same footprint and the existing plumbing connections don’t move. Moving the drain or supply lines triggers a plumbing permit.
Do I need a permit to convert a tub to a shower?
Yes. Tub-to-shower (or shower-to-tub) conversion changes the drain and supply locations, requires waterproofing inspection, and may trigger ADA accessibility review for curbless designs.
Can I re-tile my bathroom without a permit?
Re-tiling floor surfaces and dry walls is usually permit-exempt as finish work. Wet-area tile may trigger a waterproofing inspection in stricter jurisdictions — check with LADBS for your specific scope.
How much does a bathroom remodel permit cost in LA?
For a typical $15,000–$30,000 bathroom remodel, expect $800–$1,800 total in permit fees, plan check, trade permits, and state surcharges. Use the Permit360 calculator for your exact valuation.
Do I need a permit for an exhaust fan?
Yes if it ducts to the exterior (mechanical permit). Replacing an existing fan in the same housing with the same duct is exempt as direct replacement.