Start with a list of what will change. Updating finishes, relocating a sink, and removing a wall can lead to different requirements. Laguna Niguel Building & Safety can confirm the permit and documents for your address and scope.
Match your project to the city’s checklist
Kitchen or bathroom remodel
Write down whether you’re keeping the layout or moving plumbing, outlets, lighting, or ventilation. Include any walls or openings you want to change.
Wall removal or room addition
Gather any original plans and mark the area you want to change. The city’s additions and alterations checklist describes the drawings it may need, including existing and proposed floor plans, structural details, and supporting calculations where applicable.
Patio cover
Note whether the cover will attach to the home, where it will sit relative to property lines, and the proposed dimensions. Check the city’s patio cover handout before pricing the work.
What to gather before you contact the city
- Project address and a short description of the proposed work.
- Photos and any plans showing the current layout.
- Existing permit numbers or any correction letter, if applicable.
Use Laguna Niguel Building & Safety to find the city’s Online Permit Center. If you’re looking for older drawings, see the city’s building plans request instructions (PDF) for availability and authorization requirements.
What if the city already asked for drawings or corrections?
Keep the full correction letter and the latest set of drawings together. If the work has already been done, gather any permits and photos you can find. Those records help identify what must be documented and whether a site visit or engineering is needed.