The days of carrying a large roll of construction drawings into Torrance City Hall are over.

Effective January 5, 2026, the city requires all building-plan reviews and permit submittals to be made electronically. Paper plans and physical permit packages are no longer accepted.

Through the online permitting system, homeowners, contractors, and project designers can:

• Submit permit applications
• Upload plans and supporting documents
• Pay applicable fees
• Review correction notices
• Submit revised plans
• Track the status of an application
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The digital process can reduce trips to City Hall and provides a centralized record of the project. It does not, however, eliminate the need to prepare complete and accurate documents.

Before beginning an application, homeowners should determine whether the planned work needs a building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or planning approval. Projects that appear straightforward can involve multiple requirements depending on their scope.

A kitchen refresh involving only cabinets and finishes may be treated differently from a project that relocates plumbing, removes walls, alters electrical circuits, or changes structural components. Additions, garage conversions, patio enclosures, major window alterations, water-heater replacements, and roofing work may also trigger specific permit requirements.

Homeowners hiring a contractor should confirm who will obtain the permit and who will be responsible for responding to city corrections. They should also verify the contractor’s license and avoid beginning regulated work before the required permit has been issued.

The city’s Building and Safety page provides access to the permit portal and related application information.

Article Link: Open the Torrance Building and Safety permit portal