Cities and homeowner associations have different roles, responsibilities and legal requirements. Laguna Woods’ residents who live within Laguna Woods Village may be required to obtain two separate construction permits for home improvements.

City Permits

The City of Laguna Woods is required by state law to enforce California uniform building codes that provide minimum standards for the protection of life, limb, property, environment and the safety and welfare of individuals. These codes are developed nationwide and then modified to meet unique state and local conditions. The City reviews plans, issues permits and conducts construction inspections to assure compliance with building codes. Types of home improvement projects that may require building permits include alterations to plumbing, electrical, heating/air conditioning, new windows, new doors, patio rooms, patio covers, atrium enclosures, replacement water heaters and dishwashers, room remodels, skylights and other structural alterations.  The list of projects that require City building permits is extensive and every project may have unique circumstances that impact building permit requirements. 

Laguna Woods Village Permits

Laguna Woods Village  is comprised of several large homeowners’ associations that have the legal ability to impose restrictions and requirements on their members. One such requirement is establishment and enforcement of architectural standards. Homeowners in Laguna Woods Village must obtain an “alteration permit” from their particular homeowner association/mutual for proposed home improvement projects. The alteration permit allows association management to track changes to individual units and assure that changes meets the established association standards. Homeowner association architectural standards need not be limited to state building code concerns; they may require higher standards to protect the community’s aesthetics and quality of life. Projects that may require a Laguna Woods Village alteration permit include most building modifications that require a City building permit, but also include improvements that do not require a city permit such as replacing exterior doors, fences, gates, floor coverings, rain gutters, modesty paneling, shades, storage cabinets, etc. Laguna Woods Village building standards are established by its Homeowner/Mutual Boards of Directors that are elected by property owners.  

Do You Need Two Permits?

Depending on the type of improvement you are planning, both a City and a Laguna Woods Village permit may be required. Obtaining an alteration permit from a homeowners’ association does not substitute or eliminate the need for a City building permit. You may be unable to sell your home unless you have obtained proper permits for building modifications. Residents should check with City staff if there is any question about whether or not a city permit is required.