Do I need a permit to build a deck or patio cover in Burbank, CA?

Yes, in most cases. Burbank requires a building permit for attached patio covers, pergolas attached to the house, and raised decks more than 30 inches above grade. Even freestanding patio covers may need a permit if they exceed a certain size. Your permit application will need to include a site plan showing the structure's location, dimensions, and distance from all property lines. Burbank's Building Division can confirm whether your specific project qualifies for an over-the-counter approval or requires a standard plan check. Submitting a clear, scaled site plan from the start is the best way to avoid corrections and speed up the approval process.

How much does it cost to get a building permit in Burbank?

Permit fees in Burbank are calculated based on the valuation of the work, the type of project, and any plan check or inspection fees that apply. For a typical room addition, homeowners can expect total permit fees ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on the project's scope. ADU permits may have additional fees related to school impact, sewer capacity, and traffic. Burbank also offers expedited plan check for an additional fee if you need faster review. The city's Building Division can provide a fee estimate before you submit. Note that the cost of preparing your site plan and drawings is separate from city permit fees.

How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Burbank?

Timelines vary by project type. Simple projects like a standard fence or small shed may qualify for an over-the-counter permit issued the same day. Standard residential plan checks for additions, ADUs, and pools in Burbank typically take 4 to 8 weeks for an initial review as of 2026. If the city issues plan check corrections, you will need to revise and resubmit your drawings, which can add additional weeks to the process. Expedited plan check is available for an additional fee and can cut review time significantly. Submitting a complete, accurate application with a well-drawn site plan is the most reliable way to minimize delays.

What needs to be included on a residential site plan in Burbank?

Burbank's Building Division expects a site plan to show the full property boundary with dimensions, north arrow, and scale. It should clearly locate all existing structures (house, garage, sheds) and the proposed new structure or addition, with dimensions and distances from all property lines labeled as setbacks. The site plan should also show driveways, walkways, utility locations such as gas meters, electrical panels, and sewer cleanouts, and any easements on the property. For hillside properties, grading contours may also be required. The drawing must be legible and drawn to a recognized scale such as 1 inch equals 10 feet or 1 inch equals 20 feet.

Can I draw my own site plan in Burbank, or do I need a licensed architect or surveyor?

For most standard residential projects in Burbank, you are not required to hire a licensed architect or surveyor to prepare a site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the drawing is accurate, to scale, and includes all the information required by the Building Division. However, if your project involves structural work such as a two-story addition or a hillside retaining wall, Burbank will require plans stamped by a licensed engineer or architect. For complex projects or hillside properties, a licensed professional is strongly recommended. Tools like Site Plan Creator make it straightforward for non-professionals to produce clear, scaled site plans that meet Burbank's formatting expectations.

What are the setback requirements for single-family homes in Burbank?

In Burbank's standard R-1 single-family residential zones, typical setbacks are 20 to 25 feet from the front property line, 5 feet from interior side property lines (which may increase for two-story structures), 10 feet from a street side property line on corner lots, and 15 to 20 feet from the rear property line for the main dwelling. Accessory structures and ADUs may be allowed closer to the rear and side property lines under California state ADU law. Setbacks can vary based on your specific zoning district, lot size, and any applicable overlay zones. Always verify your parcel's exact setbacks with Burbank's Planning Division or the city's online zoning map before designing your project.

Where do I submit a permit application in Burbank, CA?

Burbank accepts residential permit applications both online and in person. The city's online permitting portal allows you to upload your site plan and supporting documents, pay fees, and track your application status from home. In-person submissions are accepted at the Building Division counter located at Burbank City Hall, 275 E. Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91502. Online submission is generally more convenient for standard residential projects because it eliminates travel time and allows you to respond to plan check corrections electronically. For complex or large projects, an in-person pre-application meeting with a plan check engineer can help you identify issues before you submit your formal application.

What happens if I build without a permit in Burbank?

Building without a required permit in Burbank can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order, requiring you to halt construction immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves additional inspections, fees, and potentially demolishing unpermitted work that cannot be verified as code-compliant. Unpermitted structures can also create problems when you sell your home, as they must be disclosed to buyers and may need to be legalized or removed. In some cases, the city can impose administrative fines. California law gives local jurisdictions broad authority to enforce building codes, so it is always better to pull a permit before starting work rather than dealing with costly corrections after the fact.

What are the ADU rules in Burbank, and do I need a site plan?

Burbank follows California state ADU law, which allows most single-family properties to add at least one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU). ADUs can be detached, attached, or created through a garage conversion. State law limits the ability of cities to impose certain restrictions, but Burbank still requires a building permit for all ADUs, and a site plan is a required part of the permit application. The site plan must show the ADU's location on the lot, its distance from property lines, the location of the primary dwelling, parking areas, and utility connections. Detached ADUs of up to 800 square feet are allowed with minimal setback requirements under state law. Permit fees for ADUs in Burbank are regulated by state law and cannot exceed certain caps for smaller units.

Does Burbank have any special rules for hillside or airport-adjacent properties?

Yes. Burbank's Hillside Management Overlay applies to properties in the Verdugo Hills and other elevated areas of the city. Projects in this overlay may require additional grading plans, drainage studies, and soils or geology reports as part of the permit application. Stricter setbacks and height limits may also apply. Separately, properties near Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) fall within the airport's influence area, where height restrictions apply to prevent obstructions to flight paths. If your property is in either of these zones, it is critical to contact Burbank's Community Development Department early in the planning process to understand what additional requirements apply before you invest time and money in design work.

Site Plan Requirements in Burbank, CA (Permit Guide)

By Site Plan Creator Team • June 4, 2026

Burbank, CA homeowners need a residential site plan for most building permits, from ADUs and room additions to pools and decks. This guide covers Burbank's permit triggers, setback requirements, submission process, and how Site Plan Creator can help you get started quickly.

Site plan requirements for residential properties in Burbank, California

Residential Site Plans and Building Permits in Burbank, CA

Burbank is one of the most active residential construction markets in the greater Los Angeles area, and for good reason. Nestled in the foothills of the Verdugo Mountains and bordered by Glendale, Los Angeles, and Pasadena, Burbank offers a mix of post-war bungalows, hillside homes, and newer infill development. Whether you are converting a garage into an ADU, adding a covered patio, or installing a pool in your backyard, the City of Burbank requires a building permit for most residential improvements, and nearly every permit application starts with a site plan. Understanding what Burbank expects before you submit can save you weeks of back-and-forth with the Building Division.

What Is a Residential Site Plan and Why Does Burbank Require One?

A residential site plan is a scaled, bird's-eye drawing of your property that shows the boundaries of your lot, the footprint of all existing and proposed structures, driveways, setbacks from property lines, easements, and other relevant site features. Burbank's Building Division uses the site plan to verify that your project complies with the city's zoning code, including lot coverage limits, setback requirements, and height restrictions, before issuing a permit.

Without an accurate site plan, a permit technician cannot confirm whether your proposed addition, shed, or pool encroaches on a required setback or pushes your lot coverage over the allowable maximum. Submitting a complete, clearly drawn site plan from the start is the single most effective way to avoid plan check corrections and delays.

Common Residential Permit Triggers in Burbank

The following projects almost always require a building permit and an accompanying site plan in Burbank:

Room additions and second-story additions: Any expansion of conditioned living space requires a full permit set including a site plan, floor plans, and structural details.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs): California state law has streamlined ADU permitting statewide, but Burbank still requires a site plan showing the ADU's location, setbacks, and parking impacts.
Detached garages and carports: New or replacement structures require permits even when they are detached from the main house.
Swimming pools and spas: Both in-ground and above-ground pools over a certain size require a permit and a site plan showing the pool's location relative to property lines and the house.
Decks and patio covers: Attached patio covers and raised decks over 30 inches above grade require a permit. Freestanding patio covers may also require one depending on size.
Fences and walls: In Burbank, fences over 6 feet in height generally require a permit. Retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from the bottom of the footing) also require permits and engineering.
Sheds and accessory structures: Sheds over 120 square feet require a permit. Even smaller sheds may need zoning clearance to confirm setback compliance.
Driveway modifications: Widening a driveway or adding a new curb cut requires both a building permit and, in many cases, a public works encroachment permit.
Solar panels: Rooftop solar installations require a permit, though Burbank has adopted a streamlined solar permitting process consistent with California's SolarAPP+ program.

Burbank Zoning Quirks and Local Considerations

Burbank's zoning code includes several features that can catch homeowners off guard:

Hillside development: Portions of Burbank fall within the city's Hillside Management Overlay, which imposes stricter grading, drainage, and setback requirements. If your property is in a hillside zone, expect additional plan check scrutiny and possibly a geology or soils report.

Airport influence area: Burbank is home to Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), and some residential parcels fall within the airport's influence area. Height restrictions and noise compatibility requirements can affect what you are allowed to build.

Historic resources: Burbank has a growing inventory of designated historic resources and Mills Act properties. If your home is on the local historic register or in a historic district, alterations visible from the street may require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Community Development Department before a building permit is issued.

Lot coverage limits: Most single-family residential zones in Burbank cap total lot coverage (all structures combined) at 40 to 50 percent of the lot area. ADUs and accessory structures count toward this total, so it is important to calculate existing coverage before designing a new project.

California Title 24 energy compliance: All new conditioned space in Burbank must comply with California's Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards. Your permit set will need to include a compliant energy calculation or CF1R form.

Typical Setback Requirements in Burbank

Setbacks vary by zoning district, but the following ranges are typical for Burbank's single-family residential (R-1) zones:

Front yard setback: 20 to 25 feet from the front property line
Interior side yard setback: 5 feet minimum (may increase for taller structures or two-story additions)
Street side yard setback (corner lots): 10 feet minimum
Rear yard setback: 15 to 20 feet for the main dwelling; accessory structures may be permitted closer to the rear property line under California ADU law

Always verify the specific setbacks for your parcel using Burbank's online zoning map or by contacting the Planning Division directly, as overlay zones, specific plan areas, and lot dimensions can affect the applicable standards. You can explore Burbank's zoning information through the City of Burbank Community Development Department.

How to Submit a Permit Application in Burbank

Step 1: Determine Your Project's Requirements

Before drawing anything, confirm what your project requires by contacting Burbank's Building Division or reviewing the city's permit handouts. Simple projects like a standard wood fence may only need a zoning clearance, while an ADU or addition will require a full plan check.

Step 2: Prepare Your Site Plan and Permit Documents

Assemble your site plan, floor plans, elevation drawings, and any required engineering or energy calculations. Your site plan must be drawn to a recognized scale (such as 1 inch equals 10 feet or 1 inch equals 20 feet), show all property lines with dimensions, locate all existing and proposed structures, and label setbacks clearly.

Step 3: Submit Through Burbank's Online Portal or In Person

Burbank accepts permit applications through its online permitting portal as well as in person at the Building Division counter at Burbank City Hall. Online submission is recommended for most residential projects because it allows you to track your application status and respond to plan check corrections without traveling to City Hall.

Step 4: Plan Check Review

For over-the-counter (OTC) permits, simple projects may be approved the same day. Standard residential plan checks in Burbank typically take 4 to 8 weeks for an initial review, though the city has offered expedited plan check services for an additional fee. Corrections are common, and applicants typically have 180 days to respond before an application expires.

Step 5: Permit Issuance and Inspections

Once your plans are approved, you pay the permit fee and receive your permit. Post the permit card on site and call for required inspections at each phase of construction. A final inspection is required before the project is considered complete.

For more on California's statewide building code framework, visit the California Building Standards Commission.

Common Reasons Burbank Permit Applications Get Rejected

Plan check corrections in Burbank most often result from:

Missing or incorrect setback dimensions on the site plan
Lot coverage calculations that omit existing accessory structures or eave overhangs
Insufficient scale or illegible drawings that make it impossible to verify dimensions
Missing Title 24 energy compliance documentation for conditioned additions
Failure to show utility locations, including gas meters, electrical panels, and sewer cleanouts
Incomplete structural details for decks, patio covers, or retaining walls
No soils or geology report for hillside properties where one is required

Addressing these issues before you submit is the most reliable way to get through plan check on the first attempt.

Get Started with Site Plan Creator

Creating an accurate, professional-quality site plan does not have to be complicated or expensive. Site Plan Creator gives Burbank homeowners and contractors an easy-to-use online tool to draw scaled site plans that meet the formatting standards expected by the Burbank Building Division. Whether you are planning a backyard ADU, a new pool, or a room addition, Site Plan Creator helps you produce a clear, dimensioned site plan you can submit with confidence. Start your project today and move your Burbank permit application forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a deck or patio cover in Burbank, CA?: Yes, in most cases. Burbank requires a building permit for attached patio covers, pergolas attached to the house, and raised decks more than 30 inches above grade. Even freestanding patio covers may need a permit if they exceed a certain size. Your permit application will need to include a site plan showing the structure's location, dimensions, and distance from all property lines. Burbank's Building Division can confirm whether your specific project qualifies for an over-the-counter approval or requires a standard plan check. Submitting a clear, scaled site plan from the start is the best way to avoid corrections and speed up the approval process.
How much does it cost to get a building permit in Burbank?: Permit fees in Burbank are calculated based on the valuation of the work, the type of project, and any plan check or inspection fees that apply. For a typical room addition, homeowners can expect total permit fees ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on the project's scope. ADU permits may have additional fees related to school impact, sewer capacity, and traffic. Burbank also offers expedited plan check for an additional fee if you need faster review. The city's Building Division can provide a fee estimate before you submit. Note that the cost of preparing your site plan and drawings is separate from city permit fees.
How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Burbank?: Timelines vary by project type. Simple projects like a standard fence or small shed may qualify for an over-the-counter permit issued the same day. Standard residential plan checks for additions, ADUs, and pools in Burbank typically take 4 to 8 weeks for an initial review as of 2026. If the city issues plan check corrections, you will need to revise and resubmit your drawings, which can add additional weeks to the process. Expedited plan check is available for an additional fee and can cut review time significantly. Submitting a complete, accurate application with a well-drawn site plan is the most reliable way to minimize delays.
What needs to be included on a residential site plan in Burbank?: Burbank's Building Division expects a site plan to show the full property boundary with dimensions, north arrow, and scale. It should clearly locate all existing structures (house, garage, sheds) and the proposed new structure or addition, with dimensions and distances from all property lines labeled as setbacks. The site plan should also show driveways, walkways, utility locations such as gas meters, electrical panels, and sewer cleanouts, and any easements on the property. For hillside properties, grading contours may also be required. The drawing must be legible and drawn to a recognized scale such as 1 inch equals 10 feet or 1 inch equals 20 feet.
Can I draw my own site plan in Burbank, or do I need a licensed architect or surveyor?: For most standard residential projects in Burbank, you are not required to hire a licensed architect or surveyor to prepare a site plan. Homeowners and contractors can draw their own site plans as long as the drawing is accurate, to scale, and includes all the information required by the Building Division. However, if your project involves structural work such as a two-story addition or a hillside retaining wall, Burbank will require plans stamped by a licensed engineer or architect. For complex projects or hillside properties, a licensed professional is strongly recommended. Tools like Site Plan Creator make it straightforward for non-professionals to produce clear, scaled site plans that meet Burbank's formatting expectations.
What are the setback requirements for single-family homes in Burbank?: In Burbank's standard R-1 single-family residential zones, typical setbacks are 20 to 25 feet from the front property line, 5 feet from interior side property lines (which may increase for two-story structures), 10 feet from a street side property line on corner lots, and 15 to 20 feet from the rear property line for the main dwelling. Accessory structures and ADUs may be allowed closer to the rear and side property lines under California state ADU law. Setbacks can vary based on your specific zoning district, lot size, and any applicable overlay zones. Always verify your parcel's exact setbacks with Burbank's Planning Division or the city's online zoning map before designing your project.
Where do I submit a permit application in Burbank, CA?: Burbank accepts residential permit applications both online and in person. The city's online permitting portal allows you to upload your site plan and supporting documents, pay fees, and track your application status from home. In-person submissions are accepted at the Building Division counter located at Burbank City Hall, 275 E. Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91502. Online submission is generally more convenient for standard residential projects because it eliminates travel time and allows you to respond to plan check corrections electronically. For complex or large projects, an in-person pre-application meeting with a plan check engineer can help you identify issues before you submit your formal application.
What happens if I build without a permit in Burbank?: Building without a required permit in Burbank can result in serious consequences. The city may issue a stop-work order, requiring you to halt construction immediately. You may be required to obtain a retroactive permit, which often involves additional inspections, fees, and potentially demolishing unpermitted work that cannot be verified as code-compliant. Unpermitted structures can also create problems when you sell your home, as they must be disclosed to buyers and may need to be legalized or removed. In some cases, the city can impose administrative fines. California law gives local jurisdictions broad authority to enforce building codes, so it is always better to pull a permit before starting work rather than dealing with costly corrections after the fact.
What are the ADU rules in Burbank, and do I need a site plan?: Burbank follows California state ADU law, which allows most single-family properties to add at least one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU). ADUs can be detached, attached, or created through a garage conversion. State law limits the ability of cities to impose certain restrictions, but Burbank still requires a building permit for all ADUs, and a site plan is a required part of the permit application. The site plan must show the ADU's location on the lot, its distance from property lines, the location of the primary dwelling, parking areas, and utility connections. Detached ADUs of up to 800 square feet are allowed with minimal setback requirements under state law. Permit fees for ADUs in Burbank are regulated by state law and cannot exceed certain caps for smaller units.
Does Burbank have any special rules for hillside or airport-adjacent properties?: Yes. Burbank's Hillside Management Overlay applies to properties in the Verdugo Hills and other elevated areas of the city. Projects in this overlay may require additional grading plans, drainage studies, and soils or geology reports as part of the permit application. Stricter setbacks and height limits may also apply. Separately, properties near Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) fall within the airport's influence area, where height restrictions apply to prevent obstructions to flight paths. If your property is in either of these zones, it is critical to contact Burbank's Community Development Department early in the planning process to understand what additional requirements apply before you invest time and money in design work.

How to Create a Site Plan in Burbank

Confirm Your Permit Requirements: Before starting any design work, contact Burbank's Building Division or review the city's online permit handouts to confirm whether your project requires a full plan check permit, an over-the-counter permit, or just a zoning clearance. Knowing the exact requirements upfront saves time and prevents you from preparing more documentation than necessary. You can reach the Building Division at (818) 238-5220 or visit the city's website at burbankca.gov.
Gather Your Property Information: Collect your property's legal description, assessor's parcel number (APN), lot dimensions, and any existing survey or title documents. Use Burbank's online zoning map or contact the Planning Division to confirm your zoning designation, applicable setbacks, and lot coverage limits. If your property is in the Hillside Management Overlay or the airport influence area, identify any additional requirements that will affect your project design before you begin drawing.
Draw Your Site Plan to Scale: Create a scaled site plan showing your full property boundary, all existing structures, and the proposed new structure or addition. Label all setback distances from property lines, include a north arrow and scale bar, and show driveways, utility locations, and any easements. Use a recognized scale such as 1 inch equals 10 feet. Site Plan Creator provides an easy online tool to produce a professional, accurate site plan that meets Burbank Building Division formatting standards without needing CAD software.
Prepare and Submit Your Full Application: Assemble your complete permit package, including the site plan, floor plans, elevation drawings, and any required engineering calculations or Title 24 energy compliance forms. Submit your application through Burbank's online permitting portal or in person at City Hall, 275 E. Olive Avenue. Double-check that all dimensions are labeled, all required documents are included, and your site plan is drawn to scale to minimize the risk of plan check corrections.
Respond to Plan Check Corrections: After the city reviews your application, you may receive a correction letter identifying items that need to be revised or clarified. Respond promptly and completely to each correction. In Burbank, applicants typically have 180 days to respond before an application expires. Addressing all corrections in a single resubmittal, rather than piecemeal, is the fastest way to get through plan check and receive your permit.
Schedule Inspections and Close Your Permit: Once your permit is issued, post the permit card visibly on the job site and schedule all required inspections with Burbank's Building Division as construction progresses. Common inspection stages include foundation, framing, rough mechanical and electrical, and final inspection. Do not cover work before it has been inspected and approved. After passing the final inspection, your permit is closed and the project is officially complete and on record with the city.