Planning, Building, and Development
Cerritos Permits and Approvals are Going Digital!
On Monday, October 26, 2026, the City will launch a new, full-service online permitting and approval system for the departments of Community Development and Public Works. This includes the transition of planning approvals, building and safety permits, and public works permits to a fully digital review and approval process.
Due to the implementation of the City's new permit portal, Planning and Building & Safety services will be unavailable from Monday, October 19, 2026 to Friday, October 23, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Applications will not be able to be accepted, and building permits/planning approvals will not be issued this week. Staff will be available for general inquiries. The new portal will be launched on Monday, October 26, 2026 at www.permits.cerritos.gov.
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All Permit Services | Permit Examples
Property improvements for residential, commercial, or industrial properties require City approval and issuance of permits prior to the start of construction. All proposed development and uses are required to comply with local zoning requirements and meet the City's standards for development, set forth in the Cerritos Municipal Code.
City of Cerritos Permit Services
Permit Examples
Permits are required for various improvement projects, whether your property is a residential use, commercial use, or industrial use. The Application/Building Permit Forms Guide can assist in determining what applications forms are required for your project. Some examples of projects that require permits/City approval are listed as follows:
| Example of Residential Projects that Require Permits/City Approval | Example of Commercial/Industrial Projects that Require Permits/City Approval |
| HVAC | Tenant/Landlord Improvements |
| Front Yard Landscaping | Exterior/Interior Modifications |
| Exterior Painting | Signage |
| Room Additions | Landscaping/Tree Trimming |
| Home Remodel | Parking Lot Improvements |
| Solar Panel Installations/Upgrades | Accessibility Improvements |
| Re-Roof | Temporary Uses |
| Patios | Business License Approvals |
| Block Wall/Fences | New Building |
Additional Links
For More Information
Contact the Department of Community Development at (562) 916-1201 for additional information on Business Licenses and Commercial and Industrial, Filming, Residential, Building and Safety Inspections, and Temporary Use permits.
Contact the Department of Public Works at (562) 916-1220 for additional information on Excavation and Encroachment, Trash Bins, and Trees and Landscaping permits.
Contact the Community Safety Division at (562) 916-1266 for additional information on Alarms and Overnight Parking permits.