City of Whittier

Building in the City of Whittier
Whittier, California, is a historic and vibrant city located in the southeastern San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County. Known for its charming neighborhoods, strong community spirit, and rich Quaker heritage, Whittier has grown into a thriving city that balances historic character with modern suburban living. Incorporated in 1898, the city continues to celebrate its unique past while fostering thoughtful growth and community engagement.

Today, Whittier is home to a diverse population and is celebrated for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and welcoming neighborhoods. The city offers a variety of parks, recreational facilities, and cultural amenities, including the historic Uptown Whittier district and nearby hiking trails in the surrounding hills. Residents enjoy local shopping, dining, and community events, while benefiting from convenient access to neighboring cities such as La Habra, Pico Rivera, and Santa Fe Springs.

Whittier is known for its family-friendly programs, strong schools, and engaged municipal services, contributing to its reputation as a safe, inclusive, and connected community. Residents take pride in local arts programs, annual festivals, and youth activities that foster civic involvement and strengthen neighborhood connections.

City planning in Whittier emphasizes preserving the city’s historic character, supporting sustainable growth, and investing in public spaces and infrastructure. Major transportation routes—including State Route 72 and proximity to Interstates 5 and 605—provide regional access, while local streets and transit options support mobility and connectivity within the city.

With its combination of historic charm, natural beauty, and strong community values, Whittier remains a thriving and welcoming city—a distinctive home for families, businesses, and visitors seeking a balanced lifestyle enriched by culture, recreation, and community engagement.

Construction Procedure in the City of Whittier
1. Initial Project Planning
‍In Whittier, successful development begins with thoughtful planning to ensure projects align with the City’s General Plan, zoning code, and the community’s vision for sustainable growth, neighborhood character, and economic vitality. Developers and property owners should first confirm the site’s zoning designation, allowable uses, and whether the property is within a Specific Plan area, overlay district, or historic district, such as Uptown Whittier. Early consideration of site conditions—including traffic access, parking, utility availability, stormwater management, and proximity to schools, parks, and public services—is essential. Projects should complement the existing neighborhood or commercial character while integrating sustainable design practices, such as energy-efficient systems, water-wise landscaping, and responsible grading.

‍2. Pre-Application Consultation and Staff Review
‍Before submitting a formal application, applicants are encouraged to schedule a pre-application consultation with the City’s Planning Division. Staff review the proposed project concept and advise on necessary entitlements, which may include Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Design Review, or other discretionary approvals. The City also determines whether environmental review under CEQA is required and the level of documentation needed. Staff provide guidance on zoning compliance, design compatibility, traffic and parking impacts, stormwater and drainage requirements, fire access, and utility capacity. Early consultation helps applicants refine their project, minimize revisions, and align with City standards and community expectations.

‍3. Application Submittal
‍After refining the project based on pre-application feedback, the applicant submits a complete development application to the Planning Division. Submittals typically include site plans, architectural elevations, floor plans, landscape plans, grading and drainage plans, and any required technical studies, such as traffic analyses, geotechnical reports, and stormwater management documentation. Larger or more complex projects may require environmental review under CEQA. A complete application enables coordinated review by Planning, Building & Safety, Public Works/Engineering, and the Fire Department.

‍4. Plan Check, Design Review, and Code Compliance Evaluation
‍Once submitted, the project undergoes a multi-department review. Planning staff evaluate zoning compliance, site layout, and architectural quality, with Design Review applied to projects in sensitive areas or those impacting neighborhood character. Building & Safety staff review structural, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, accessibility, and energy code compliance. Fire Department staff assess life-safety systems, fire access, and protection measures. Public Works/Engineering reviews grading, drainage, stormwater facilities, and utility connections. Staff may request revisions to ensure full compliance with Whittier’s Municipal Code, design guidelines, and CEQA requirements.

‍5. Permit Issuance and Infrastructure Coordination
‍After all departmental approvals and entitlements are obtained, the City issues building permits. Developers coordinate with utility providers and the City for any required public improvements, such as streets, sidewalks, curbs, or storm drains. Performance bonds or construction securities may be required to guarantee completion of public improvements. This ensures projects integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure while maintaining City standards.

‍6. Construction and Inspections
‍Construction may begin once all permits are issued. Developers must follow approved plans, building codes, and conditions of approval. Building & Safety inspectors monitor work at key stages, including foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and final building systems. The Fire Department inspects fire protection systems and emergency access, while Public Works monitors grading, stormwater systems, and public improvements. Any changes during construction must be reviewed and approved by the City to maintain compliance.

‍7. Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
‍Upon project completion, Building & Safety performs a final inspection to verify compliance with approved plans, building codes, and conditions of approval. If all requirements are satisfied, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new structures or Final Approval for remodels, tenant improvements, or phased projects. In phased developments, Certificates of Occupancy may be issued for individual structures or components as completed, ensuring safety and compliance.

‍8. Project Close-Out
‍During project close-out, developers complete remaining obligations, including landscaping, lighting, signage, and public improvements. As-built drawings reflecting final construction must be submitted to the City. Public Works conducts final inspections of infrastructure and stormwater systems to confirm compliance. Performance or maintenance bonds may be released once all obligations are fulfilled, marking the official closure of the project.

‍9. Ongoing Compliance and Future Modifications
‍Even after occupancy, property owners must continue to comply with Whittier’s Municipal Code, zoning regulations, and conditions of approval. Any future modifications—including building additions, exterior renovations, landscaping updates, signage changes, or changes in land use—require review by the Planning Division and may involve additional review by Building & Safety, Public Works, or the Fire Department. Maintaining ongoing compliance helps preserve community character, ensure safety, and support the City’s commitment to high-quality, sustainable development.