Building Height Surveys in Los Angeles & Ventura County

What a  Building Height Survey Covers

A building  height survey measures the height of an existing or proposed building  referenced to the appropriate datum required by the applicable zoning,  hillside, HPOZ (Historic Preservation Overlay Zone), or design review  approval. Different jurisdictions and overlays calculate height from  different reference points, grade, average grade, finished floor, natural  grade prior to grading, or a specific datum elevation. We measure the ridge,  roof, and key structural elevations, establish the correct reference datum  per the applicable code, and deliver a compliance exhibit your designer,  building department, or design review board can rely on.

Common Reasons Clients Request a Building Height Survey

• LA City  hillside ordinance compliance verification

• Zoning height limit compliance for new construction or  additions

• HPOZ or historic district height verification

• Coastal Commission height limit compliance

• Design review approval where height was a discretionary  condition

• Pre-permit verification that proposed plans meet height  limits

• Mid-construction verification that built elements match  approved heights

• Post-construction verification for closeout or compliance  documentation

• Neighbor concern or view-protection documentation

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What’s Included in a Building Height Survey

•  Establishment of the reference datum required by the applicable code (grade,  average grade, natural grade, etc.)

• Field measurement of ridge, eave, parapet, and key elevation  points

• Calculation of building height per the specific code formula

• Comparison with the applicable height limit and approval  conditions

• Compliance exhibit (PDF) clearly showing measured heights  vs. limits

• Stamped certification when required for permit submittal or  final inspection

• Photographic documentation of key measurement points when  relevant

Common  Building Height Survey Add-Ons

• Boundary  survey when grade reference points must be tied to property corners

• Topographic survey when natural grade or pre-grading  conditions must be documented

• As-built survey integrating height with overall building  documentation

• 3D laser scanning for complex roof geometry or historic  structures

What We  Need to Start Your Building Height Survey

• Property  address (and APN if available)

• Applicable zoning, hillside, HPOZ, or design review  requirements driving the height analysis

• Approved plans showing proposed or approved heights and  reference datums

• Permit number when the survey supports an active permit

• Specific code section or approval condition language  defining the height calculation

• Timeline driven by inspection, plan check, or compliance  deadline

• Access details: scaffolding, roof access, occupancy  considerations

Our  Building Height Survey Process

1. Code  review. We review the applicable zoning, hillside, HPOZ, or design review  requirements and confirm the correct height calculation method.

2. Plan review. We review approved plans and any prior surveys  to establish the reference datum.

3. Field work. Our crew measures ridge, roof, eave, and  parapet elevations using methods appropriate to the structure (total station,  GNSS, scanning).

4. Calculation. We calculate building height per the specific  code formula and compare to the limit.

5. Exhibit preparation and delivery. We compile the compliance  exhibit and stamp/sign as required.

Building  Height Survey Deliverables

• Building  height compliance exhibit (PDF, signed and sealed by licensed CA PLS)

• CAD file when needed for permit or design coordination

• Photographic documentation of measurement points when  relevant

• Stamped certification or letter for permit submittal or  inspection

• Supporting calculation worksheet when complex height  formulas apply

Why  Builoff for Your Building Height Survey

• Licensed  California PLS (PLS 8099) overseeing all height determinations and  certifications

• Familiar with LA City and LA County hillside ordinance  height calculation methodology

• Experience with HPOZ, Coastal, and design review height  requirements across LA and Ventura

• 3D laser scanning capability for complex roof geometry and  historic structures

• Clear exhibits that permit reviewers and design review  boards can evaluate without question

• Fast turnaround when permits or inspections are on a  deadline