City of Inglewood

Building in the City of Inglewood
Inglewood, California is a vibrant city in Los Angeles County known for its rich cultural diversity, thriving economy, and growing reputation as a premier destination for entertainment, sports, and community life. Strategically located near Los Angeles International Airport and major freeways, Inglewood serves as a key hub for commerce and regional connectivity. The city has experienced significant revitalization in recent years, with major developments such as SoFi Stadium, YouTube Theater, and the upcoming Intuit Dome driving local investment, tourism, and job creation.

While Inglewood has become a focal point for large-scale entertainment and mixed-use projects, the city remains deeply connected to its neighborhoods and residents. It offers a wide variety of housing options—from historic single-family homes to modern apartment communities—alongside schools, parks, and neighborhood services that support families and local businesses. The city promotes community engagement and provides recreational opportunities through cultural festivals, local arts programs, and public gathering spaces that foster civic pride and connection.

As Inglewood continues to evolve, it balances urban growth with community-oriented planning and infrastructure improvements. Investments in public transit, housing, and green spaces are enhancing mobility and livability for residents. With its dynamic mix of economic opportunity, cultural vitality, and modern amenities, Inglewood stands out as one of Southern California’s most exciting and forward-looking cities—a place where people can live, work, and experience the energy of a city on the rise.

Construction Procedure in the City of Inglewood
1. Initial Project Planning
‍The first step in any development project in the City of Inglewood is to define the project’s vision, scope, and feasibility. Developers should begin by reviewing the property’s zoning designation and consulting the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and Municipal Code to ensure the proposed use aligns with Inglewood’s planning policies. Early consideration of factors such as site access, parking, utilities, drainage, traffic circulation, and neighborhood compatibility is essential. Environmental and design elements—such as sustainability, stormwater management, and architectural integration with the community—should also be evaluated. Aligning a project with Inglewood’s long-term goals for balanced growth, housing diversity, and economic vitality helps streamline the entitlement and permitting process.

‍2. Pre-Application Consultation & Development Review
‍Before submitting a formal application, developers are encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with the Planning Division within the Community Development Department. This meeting helps clarify zoning standards, identify required entitlements (such as Conditional Use Permits, Design Review Approvals, or Variances), and determine if California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review is needed. City staff provide early feedback on project design, traffic impacts, and environmental factors. This collaborative process allows applicants to refine proposals and ensures consistency with Inglewood’s development objectives for safe, high-quality, and community-oriented projects.

‍3. Submit Your Permit and Application Package
‍Once the project concept is refined, applicants submit a complete development application to the Planning Division. Submittal materials typically include site plans, elevations, floor plans, landscape designs, and technical studies—such as traffic, drainage, or environmental assessments. Larger projects, including mixed-use developments, multifamily housing, or commercial centers, may require additional documentation, such as design review boards or CEQA environmental reports. A thorough and complete application helps expedite review and minimize potential delays.

‍4. Plan Check, Design & Code Review
‍After submittal, the project is reviewed by the City’s Planning, Building & Safety, and Public Works Divisions for compliance with City codes, design guidelines, and state laws. The Planning Division evaluates the project’s land use, site design, and architectural compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. The Building & Safety Division ensures compliance with the California Building Standards Code and applicable life-safety requirements. Public Works reviews public infrastructure components such as streets, drainage, and utility connections. Review times vary depending on project type, complexity, and required discretionary approvals.

‍5. Permit Issuance & Infrastructure Coordination
‍Once all department reviews are complete, conditions are satisfied, and applicable fees are paid, the City issues the necessary permits for construction, grading, and public improvements. Developers coordinate with utility providers—including water, sewer, electrical, and telecommunications—to ensure proper service connections. Public Works approval is required for any improvements in the public right-of-way, such as streets, sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping. Proper coordination during this phase helps prevent construction delays and ensures all public infrastructure meets City standards.

‍6. Construction & Inspections
‍Construction may begin once permits are issued. Work must adhere to all approved plans, permit conditions, and applicable building codes. The Building & Safety Division conducts inspections at critical stages of construction—such as foundation, framing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and final building completion—to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The Public Works Department inspects infrastructure and utility improvements. Any changes to approved plans during construction must be submitted for review and approval before implementation.

‍7. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy
‍After construction is completed, the developer requests a final inspection from the Building & Safety Division. Inspectors verify that all work complies with approved plans, building codes, and conditions of approval. When all inspections are passed, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy (for new buildings) or Final Approval (for remodels or tenant improvements). This confirms that the structure is safe for use and fully compliant with City and State requirements.

‍8. Project Close-Out
‍During the project close-out phase, developers complete any remaining conditions of approval, such as final landscaping, signage, or public improvements. Developers may be required to submit “as-built” drawings documenting any field modifications. The Public Works Department must inspect and approve all public improvements before acceptance. Completing all close-out requirements ensures proper documentation, avoids compliance issues, and finalizes the project record with the City.

‍9. Ongoing Compliance & Future Modifications
‍After occupancy, property owners are responsible for ongoing compliance with the Inglewood Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance, and Building Standards. Future modifications—such as expansions, façade renovations, signage changes, or land use alterations—must be reviewed and approved by the Planning or Building & Safety Divisions before implementation. Continued adherence to City requirements ensures safety, preserves community character, and supports Inglewood’s vision for sustainable, well-managed urban development.‍