If you are planning a remodel, addition or other major home project in Torrance, the permitting process now looks very different.

Effective January 5, 2026, Torrance moved all plan reviews and permit submissions to an electronic system. Paper plans and physical permit submissions are no longer accepted.

Through the city’s online portal, homeowners, contractors and developers can submit applications, upload plans, pay fees and track the status of a project from a computer or phone.

One important step remains: many projects require zoning clearance before the building-permit application is submitted. The city specifically advises applicants to obtain that clearance first to avoid delays.

The shift may sound procedural, but for homeowners it can save a considerable amount of time — especially when revisions or additional documents are required.

Instead of repeatedly carrying plan sets to the Permit Center, much of the process can now be handled remotely.

Article Link: Use Torrance’s Online Permit Center