Los Angeles Retrofit Order Requirements
Last updated: August 27, 2026
What must the owner do?
Per Ordinance 183893 §91.9305.1, a California civil or structural engineer or architect prepares the structural analysis. The printed close-out items are the County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6) and the statement on approved plans (§91.9310.2). §91.9305.1 does not print observation reports or a documentation-receipt gate.
| Requirement | Action | Deadline impact |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer retention | Hire California licensed professional for design | Must allow time for design |
| Permit submission | Submit to LADBS for approval | Review time varies |
| Construction | Complete retrofit per plans | Must finish before deadline |
| Designer license | Civil or structural engineer or architect (§91.9305.1) | Printed designer class only |
| Order dismissal | Department files County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6); design professional puts statement on approved plans (§91.9310.2) | Complete before deadline |
What documentation is required?
Per Ordinance 183893, the Department files a County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6) and the design professional (a California civil or structural engineer or architect per §91.9305.1) puts a statement on the approved plans (§91.9310.2). Those are the two printed close-out items.
| Document | Submitted by | Required for dismissal? |
|---|---|---|
| County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6) | Department | Yes |
| Statement on approved plans (§91.9310.2) | Design professional (California civil or structural engineer or architect per §91.9305.1) | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
What are Los Angeles retrofit Order requirements?
Owners of soft-story buildings must complete seismic retrofits per Ordinance 183893. §91.9305.1 prints that a civil or structural engineer or architect prepares the structural analysis. The printed close-out items are a County Recorder certificate (§91.9306.6) and a statement on the approved plans (§91.9310.2).
What happens if the owner misses the deadline?
Missing the deadline can result in enforcement actions by LADBS. Contact LADBS directly for information on enforcement procedures and potential extensions. Owners should complete retrofits and submit documentation promptly to meet ordinance deadlines.